Friday Under The Palapa – Lychee Martini

My backyard has a Palapa… or what I construe to be a Palapa (a grassy overhanging structure reminiscent of something in a Mexican or Polynesian resort).  It evokes fun in the sun, and adds more than a touch of whimsy to our tropical themed backyard.  In celebration of all things Palapaish, and the upcoming summer season, I’m hosting a  (sometimes) weekly cocktail post titled, Friday Under the Palapa, or FUP ;).  This week’s post is all about the lychee.  Originally from China, the lychee has a beautiful aroma and a grape/plum like consistency.  Paired with lemon infused vodka, vermouth, and Lychee syrup/or liquor this drink will bring your work week to a fantastic finish.  As always, be safe and sane while consuming alcohol 🙂

Ingredients:

-Can of lychees (if you are lucky enough to have access to fresh lychees, please use them – most Asian supermarkets stock both, though not in all seasons)

-3 oz lemon infused vodka

-splash of vermouth

-1/3 cup of reserved lychee juice/syrup from can or 1 oz of lychee liquor or syrup (available and Bevmo or Asian supermarket, some are sweeter than others)

-Ice

-Toothpicks

-Yields two drinks

Directions:

Add a handful of ice to a cocktail shaker then add liquid ingredients.  Shake well and pour into martini glasses.  Garnish with 2-3 lychees on a toothpick.