So, it was lucky for us that we came across this post by Elizabeth Minchelli in Rome to inspire us. We were going to mix up some Spicy Dirty Martinis.
You know by now that John and I are big fans of dry vodka Martinis. Really, what's not to like? But sometimes you just have to change it up a bit. Variety is the spice of life, right?
We started with the vodka and a little more vermouth than we were accustomed to. Then a teaspoon of olive brine and a splash of sriracha sauce. The rest of the ritual was the same--shake vigorously over ice and strain into the waiting cocktail glasses. A nicely balanced drink that proved to be a good match with food.
Of course, we needed something to eat with the drink. Something crisp and salty. I had bought the tiniest new potatoes at the market.
I boiled them until tender, and when cool enough to handle, I placed them between a folded tea towel and smashed them with my palm.
Lined up on a baking sheet, they went into the fridge to await John's arrival, upon which they were doused with olive oil and put to bake in a hot oven until brown and crisp.
When they came out of the oven, I sprinkled them with sea salt, and I hardly could contain myself until they were cool enough to eat.
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