It’s true: Sometimes a stiff drink after a really bad day, or an exceptionally tough week, is just what you need.
Yes, meditation, yoga, exercise, a good cry, a warm hug, or offering yourself some kindness, are healthier options when it comes to preventing and managing stress, and we encourage those avenues first. But when you’ve had one of those days, and sipping on a cocktail seems like just the thing, this fig martini may be exactly what you’re looking for. (Everything in moderation, right!?)
So, why this potent libation? It’s a close approximation to a classic martini and, as such, will give you the authentic gin experience. Since pleasure is an important part of wellness, we recommend choosing a gin that you really enjoy (and for some extra karma, support a local distillery if you can). The splash of vermouth and organic sugar help balance out the strength of the booze.
The figs, though, are what make this cocktail something worth sipping. Their sweet, earthy notes lend a subtle fruit flavour to the drink, but noshing on your garnish (or rooting through the shaker for those that have soaked in some of the booze) is where you’ll get the most bang for your buck. Loaded with vitamins and nutrients like B6, manganese, copper, and potassium, these little fruits are a good choice for a sweet treat.
That’s not a bad way to balance out those big martini guns, hey?
Fig Martini Ingredients
Serves 2
If sugar is a concern for you, know that most of it stays in the shaker. You can also substitute honey if you prefer.
- 4 dried figs, quartered, plus another quartered fig for garnish (optional)
- 1 Tbsp organic sugar
- 2 oz gin
- ½ oz Martini Bianco vermouth
Method
Put all of the figs (minus 2 quarters) in the cocktail shaker along with the sugar and muddle them for about 30 seconds until the figs start to break down and incorporate with the sugar. Put the 2 remaining fig quarters into 2 chilled martini glasses.
Add the gin and vermouth along with several cubes of ice to the cocktail shaker. Shake for 10-15 seconds and strain into the glasses.
