Blood oranges are true treasures of the citrus fruit family. Sadly, they have a short season, starting in January and lasting until March, making them a highly prized winter wonder. I am a big fan of these blush beauties and their delicious crimson juice. With a touch of ginger and a splash of gin this blood orange martini is the perfect aperitif.
Makes 2
Ingredients
For the ginger syrup:
- 150g Caster sugar
- 150ml Water
- 4cm Fresh ginger root, grated
For the cocktail:
- 250ml Blood orange juice
- 200ml Dry gin (we love Dodd's gin)
- 4 tbsp ginger syrup
Equipment needed:
- Cocktail shaker
- 2 Martini glasses
Method
1. To make the sugar syrup put the sugar, water and ginger in a small saucepan. Place on a high heat, bringing the contents to a boil. Carefully watch as it reduces and thickens. It is ready when the liquid coats the back of the spoon. Strain the syrup to remove the grated ginger.
2. To the cocktail shaker add gin, blood orange juice, sugar syrup and ice. Shake for about 10 seconds and then pour the cocktail into the Martini glasses using the strainer. Voilà! Your cocktail is ready. Garnish each Martini with half a slice of blood orange.
