At last, it's winter on our calendars as well as our thermometers. Truthfully, I'm not one to complain about the weather; as long as it's sunny, I'm cool. But the drop in degrees definitely means one thing: I can finally enjoy stout beers. For me, they're too thick to drink with temps higher than 80.
One of my favorites is Lost Coast Brewery's Eight-Ball Stout (a six-pack's been sitting on my counter since early November). Much like the cocktail from last week, Out with the Old, the stout is delicious as is, with notes of chocolate and coffee. If you're not sure what to buy, try offerings like Dogfish Head's Chicory Stout or Founders Brewing Co.'s Breakfast Stout.
While this week's drink doesn't mess with the boldness of the stout too much, it complements the flavor through vanilla vodka. And to make the cocktail next-level, the recipe also calls for a bacon garnish. For vegetarians, omit the bacon and coat the chocolate rim in shredded coconut.
Feel free to experiment with your own tastes. Chocolate vodka, Irish cream or Kahlúa Mocha would be great additions.
Stout Martini
Makes 1
1/2 cup milk chocolate chips
4 ounces stout (your favorite)
1.5 ounces vanilla vodka
1 slice crispy cooked bacon
Chocolate Rim/Drizzle:
Place chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl. Melt 30 seconds in microwave and stir, continuing in 15-second intervals until fully melted.
Cocktail:
Chill a martini glass in freezer. Once chilled, dip rim of glass into melted chocolate (and sprinkle on shredded coconut if you choose). Pour in stout and vodka, then give it a stir. For garnish, place bacon on a piece of wax paper and drizzle on chocolate in a zig-zag pattern.
Follow @cfasick on Twitter, or email him at [email protected] if there's a cocktail or recipe you'd like featured.