Method: How to Make the Perfect Strawberry Lychee Martini
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries and Lychees
From my own personal experience, I’ve found that fresh strawberries add a vibrant taste to this martini. Take two ripe strawberries and remove the green stems. If you can, go for organic strawberries as they tend to be sweeter. Add them to your cocktail shaker.
Step 2: Muddle the Strawberries
Using a muddler, gently press the strawberries in the cocktail shaker. Muddle just enough to release the juices, but avoid turning them into a complete mash. This gives your martini a subtle, fruity sweetness.
Step 3: Add the Lychees
Now, add 3-4 canned lychees and about 15 ml of the lychee syrup from the can. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the syrup. I personally enjoy the slight floral hint the lychees bring to the martini.
Step 4: Add Vodka and Lychee Liqueur
Pour 50 ml of vodka (or gin for a botanical twist) into the shaker, followed by 15 ml of lychee liqueur. These spirits give the drink its kick and balance out the fruity flavors.
Step 5: Add Lime Juice
Squeeze in 1 teaspoon of fresh lime juice to brighten up the flavors. Based on my overall experience, this small amount of lime juice cuts through the sweetness and enhances the fruity notes.
Step 6: Shake with Ice
Add a generous handful of ice cubes to the shaker, then shake vigorously for about 20–30 seconds. The ice helps chill the drink and also slightly dilutes it for a smoother sip.
Step 7: Strain and Serve
Strain the martini through a fine strainer into a chilled martini glass. This ensures the drink is smooth without any pulp or seeds from the strawberries.
Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy
For a final touch, garnish your Strawberry Lychee Martini with a slice of strawberry or a lychee on a toothpick. Not only does it look great, but it adds a fun element when sipping your cocktail.
Variations
Low-sugar version: Substitute the lychee syrup with a sugar-free alternative or simply omit it. You can use fresh lychee instead for a more natural taste.
Non-alcoholic version: Swap vodka and lychee liqueur with a non-alcoholic spirit, or use sparkling water and a splash of lychee juice for a mocktail.
Vegan option: The recipe is naturally vegan as long as you choose vegan-certified vodka and liqueur.