If you ask my dad, a martini is made with gin and a very small amount of vermouth, otherwise, it’s not a martini.  That very well be the case, but I, like the rest of the world, assign the title of martini to anything served in a martini glass.  Dirty Martinis happen to top my “favorites list” in this category–the dirtier, the better.  Sorry, Daddy!

Last night, after a particularly trying day with my son, I needed a stiff drink.  Having all the ingredients to make a Dirty Martini, I decided to throw one together.  My husband, who recently became mildly obsessed pickled okra, suggested I incorporate this southern staple into the mix, then joked I could call it “The Dirty South.”  The result turned out to be pretty freaking good. 

2 oz vodka

1/2 oz vermouth 

1 oz olive brine

1/2 oz pickled okra brine

Jalapeño-stuffed olives for garnish

Pickled okra for garnish

Combine the vodka, vermouth, and brines in a shaker or mason jar filled with ice.  With the lid on tightly, shake the contents until combined and chilled.  Strain the mixture into a martini glass and garnish with olives and a piece of pickled okra.  Serve immediately. 

Serves 1