LCBO Food & Drink Autumn 2023

SIPS TO SAVOUR

MSG Martini Though MSG once had a bad health rap, those claims have largely been disproven, and you’ll still find it in the spice aisle under brand names like Accent. Used sparingly like a powerful seasoning, it amplifies and enhances savoury flavours, like the brine in this Martini. Carrying the umami note to the glass, furikake (a Japa nese seasoning blend of seaweed and fish flakes, plus sesame seeds and other seasonings) creates an intriguing rim. A nori-chip (seaweed) garnish provides the same flavour note. Wedge of lemon or lime (optional) Furikake for rimming glass (optional) 2 oz vodka 1/2 oz dry white vermouth 1/2 oz olive brine 1/4 tsp (1 mL) powdered MSG (such as Accent) Nori chip to garnish (optional) 1. Prepare a Martini or coupe glass by using a citrus wedge to swipe juice around rim, then dipping it in furikake to coat. Chill glass in the fridge. 2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and add vodka, vermouth, brine and MSG. Shake vigorously for up to 30 seconds, until thor oughly chilled and MSG is dissolved. 3. Strain into chilled, prepared glass and, if desired, and glass not rimmed, garnish with a nori chip.

Makes 1 drink

100 FOOD & DRINK AUTUMN 2023