A chocolate basil martini: for romance or just for the chocolate.

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February 2007

Product Reviews / Main Nibbles / Cocktails

Chocolate Basil* Martini Recipe

A Sophisticated Chocolate Cocktail

Sweet basil and chocolate may seem like an unlikely combination. Nothing could be further from the truth. I implore you to try this cocktail and discover what a natural compliment they are to each other.  Unlike most chocolate cocktails, this one is not too sweet and if prepared are suggested, has a wonderful, velvety texture.  It can be served before dinner but it makes a wonderful after dinner drink, too.

Yields: 2 cocktails.    

Ingredients

• 4 ounces quality dark chocolate: either hot chocolate pistoles†,
  chopped chocolate bar, disks or wafers

• 8 ounces water, boiling

• 12-16 fresh sweet basil leaves*

• 3 ounces top shelf vodka    

• Ice cubes     

• Sprigs of fresh basil leaves for garnish*     

  * This recipe also works well with fresh mint.
  † This is often sold as “drinking chocolate.”

Directions

1. Muddle the basil in a cocktail shaker or pint glass.

2. Add the hot chocolate pistoles and boiling water. Stir until the chocolate pistoles have melted and let cool to room temperature.

3. Add the vodka and ice. Shake and strain into a chilled martini glasses.

4. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

5. You can double, triple or quadruple this recipe and make it in advance if you’re entertaining a large group. Simply make the hot chocolate-basil base in a pitcher or blender and refrigerate until ready to use. Make sure you strain out the basil before serving!