A classic with a twist (Picture: The Cocktail Co/Getty)
No drink combines deliciousness and the ability to put a spring in your step like an espresso martini.
The coffee-based cocktail has long been hailed as one of the UK’s most popular tipples, but there’s now a new way to drink espresso martinis that’s taking the internet by storm.
While you may be used to the bartender topping off your glass with a few coffee beans or a sprinkle of cocoa, the new garnish of choice is… parmesan.
Now, before you recoil in terror, hear us out.
In recent weeks, TikTok users started the craze of adding a cheesy twist to the classic cocktail, with certain videos racking up hundreds of thousands oflikes.
But what exactly makes the unexpected pairing work?
Abby Matthews, mixology expert and Director of The Cocktail Co, says: ‘The idea of adding parmesan to an espresso martini might sound unusual at first, but it’s a flavour combination that you’re likely already familiar with from a lot of popular breakfast meals – take an egg and cheese omelette with a coffee for example.
‘Espresso martinis have always been a crowd-pleaser, offering smooth indulgence balanced with a caffeine kick.
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‘And while the cocktail is perfectly delicious by itself, the addition of a salty, savoury flavour profile from the parmesan can balance nicely with the cocktail’s sweet and bitter flavours, adding a unique depth that will leave your tastebuds pleasantly surprised.’
The taste test reaction to the drink has been surprisingly positive. In one video made by @GoldenBrownCoffee, the caffeine connoisseur asked: ‘Why is it so good?’
Meanwhile, bartender @highproofpreacher said: ‘I regret to inform you that was kind of awesome.’
Not convinced just yet? Well, try a parmesan espresso martini for yourself.
How to make a parmesan espresso martini
Ingredients (Serves 2)
100g golden caster sugar (for the sugar syrup)
Ice
100ml vodka
50ml freshly brewed espresso coffee
50ml coffee liqueur
Parmesan cheese
Method
Start by making the sugar syrup. Put the caster sugar in a small pan over a medium heat and pour in 50ml water. Stir, and bring to the boil.
Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool. Put two martini glasses in the fridge to chill.
Once the sugar syrup is cold, pour one tablespoon into a cocktail shaker along with a handful of ice, the vodka, espresso and coffee liqueur.
Shake until the outside of the cocktail shaker feels icy cold.
Grate parmesan shavings directly on top.
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The traditional coffee bean garnish has been replaced with a savoury alternative.Â
