MAKES 1 SERVING
In contrast to most drinks, which get more watery over time, here the initial taste is mild, but after several minutes the heat and flavor intensify. Some wasabi will settle out into the bottom of the glass: It can be stirred back into the liquid with the stem of the leaf (or a swizzle stick). Once you've tried the basic Wasabi Martini, you can experiment with the addition of things like sake, ginger, cucumber, lime juice and olives.
INGREDIENTS
3 ounces vodka
1 teaspoon grated fresh wasabi
Crushed ice
1 small fresh Wasabia japonica leaf with stem or celery leaves, lemon zest curl or a strip of nori draped over the glass
Combine vodka and grated wasabi in a shaker. Add crushed ice and shake vigorously. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with wasabi leaf or celery leaves.
Photo courtesy.
