watermelon martinis

So my new belief is that watermelon is meant to be drunk, not eaten.  Everyone goes crazy for watermelon during the summer.  And sure, I think it tastes pretty good, but it’s so soft and messy and, well, watery.  And while I am not usually a “texture” person, something about the texture bothers me a bit, like it’s a fruit that thinks it should be poured into a glass and I really just don’t want to deal with that.  Probably the same reason I will only drink pulp-free orange juice.

Hence…a drink!  Perfect.  And so so very tasty.  Exactly all the best things about watermelon, minus the mess (and plus alcohol).

A couple of notes about this drink.  First of all, this simple syrup is no joke.  One cup of water to two (two!) cups of sugar.  Second of all, strain the watermelon juice multiple times.  I strained it once and still felt that the juice was a bit too pulpy.  Straining it twice made a huge difference, and I think a third time would have made it perfect (if you’re like me and want it as smooth as possible).

I’m trying to think if I have any more comments for you about this drink or stories I could tell you, but hey, it’s a drink, and I don’t think it needs a lot of explanation.  So just go make yourself a weekend cocktail.

Watermelon Martini
from The Hot and Hot Fish Club Cookbook

Prep Time: 5 minutes (if you have the juice and simple syrup already made)

Makes: 1 martini

1 1/2 oz. (3 tablespoons) citrus flavored vodka (or regular vodka)
3 oz. (1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons) fresh watermelon juice
1/2 oz. (1 tablespoon) simple syrup
1 lemon twist, for garnish (optional)

1. Chill martini glasses in the freezer for about 5 minutes, while you mix the drink.  (Or chill longer in the fridge).
2. In a drink mixer, combine vodka, watermelon juice, and simple syrup, along will a scoop of ice.  Shake well (until chilled).
3. Pour the drink into chilled martini glass, and garnish with the lemon twist.

Watermelon Juice
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Peel, seed, and cube about 2 lbs. fresh watermelon.  Puree in a food processor until smooth.  Then strain into a bowl with a fine mesh strainer.  Strain multiple times if necessary, as the more it is strained the smoother it will be.

Simple Syrup
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Wait Time: 1 hour

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup water

In a small saucepan combine sugar and water.  Bring to a boil and stir until the sugar is dissolved.  Boil for 30 seconds.  Remove from heat and cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.  Then refrigerate until chilled, about another 30 minutes.