GREENI MARTINI

When you hear St. Patrick’s Day, I doubt you think about martinis. What likely comes to mind is Irish whiskey, beer, and cider. Then maybe you think green. 

​But the truth remains that there is a martini for every occasion—and most certainly during an Irish-themed holiday where alcohol flows freely.
 
You really don’t have to be a big drinker to enjoy one green martini this St. Patrick’s Day, nor do you have to be Irish. All you have to be is creative, or just go with the flow…
 
Let’s get one thing straight: I’m not a big drinker and I’m definitely not Irish.
 
And when I called Chef Johannes about creating a treat for our readers for the upcoming holiday, he said, “Michelle, I’m not a bartender. I am a chef. And just like you, I’m not Irish. Why not do a dinner recipe, maybe a special casserole—something green?” He hoped to talk me into something different to honor St. Patrick’s Day.
 
But it all sounded too serious. When it comes to food, the green part sounded too healthy for St. Patrick’s Day. The alternative of green food coloring would not be an option in Chef Johannes’ kitchen (or in mine). I had to turn it down.
 
So what do you think, casserole or martini? Martini, of course.
 
But don’t think I got off that easy.  I had to promise the chef that next holiday, less drinking, more cooking…. (We shall see.)

​Greeni Martini
1 oz. vodka
1 oz. crème de mint (green)
2 oz. Godiva white chocolate liqueur
1 oz. crème de cacao (white)
½ oz. half and half
Ice cubes
Mint leaf
 
Mix vodka, Godiva liqueur, crème de cacao liqueur, crème de mint, and half and half in a martini shaker with several ice cubes.
Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass for the traditional martini experience, or use whatever glass you have on hand.
Garnish with mint leaf on top.

Right: Justin Patterson, manager, Fogo De Chao, Atlanta, Pedro, bartender, and Daniella

​FYI, this martini was tested last night at Fogo De Chao in Atlanta and was more than just approved—the next time you dine there, ask Pedro, the bartender, or Justin, the manager, for Chef Johannes’ Greeni Martini.

Happy St. Patty’s Day!
 
Michelle (& Chef Johannes)