Shakers One and Two would like to wish you all a wonderful Turkey Day. And whether you are stuck for ideas on how to use up your leftovers friday or maybe are having just a bit too much family togetherness on the day itself, the Shakers are here for you:
Cranberry Relish Martini:
The perfect way to use some of your leftover fresh cranberry relish. No, not that weirdly shaped stuff that gloops out of the can in one ridged gelatinous blob. I’m talking about what my Great Grandmother used to chop by hand (we’re all thankful for food processors!), with fresh cranberries, navel oranges and a bit of sugar. My mom made this every year. And for those of you who want a shortcut, I’ve heard that Trader Joe’s now makes a good version, though I’ve yet to give it a try myself.
Back to the ‘tini-
Just muddle 2 large spoonfuls of the relish in the bottom of a metal shaker with about a shot of Grand Marnier (ok, go ahead and use Triple Sec if you don’t like your guests very much). Add 3 shots of vodka, a shot of freshly squeezed OJ and a squeeze of fresh lemon. Shake well with ice and strain into a martini glass, serve over ice with a bit of club soda, hell- pour it into the gravy boat and add a straw. Sometimes the holidays can make you really, really thirsty. <wink wink>
I garnished with a whole cranberry and a bit of orange zest and shook in a few drops of cranberry bitters (you could also use orange bitters if you prefer). It’s like drinking Thanksgiving!
One more tip: for a more festive bevvie, put a spoonful of the relish in the bottom of a flute and top with your favorite champagne or prosecco.
Gobble Gobble!
that martini looks delightful!
Thank you! I hope you give it a try. I like mine a bit on the tart side, but you can add more GM or triple sec or even a dash of simple syrup if you’re a sweet lover.