Pickled Recipe

Optional salted rim

If rimming the glass, rub a lemon twist or a cut pickle around the glass rim, then dip the rim into a small plate of coarse salt to coat. Set the glass aside to chill.

Combine pickle brine and water in a mixing tin or shaker. The small amount of water softens very salty brine; omit water if your brine is already mild.

Add vodka and dry vermouth to the tin. The proportions create a punchy but balanced savory martini-like drink.

Add two dashes of orange bitters.

Fill the shaker or mixing glass with ice. If you prefer a slightly more diluted, colder drink, shake vigorously for 10–12 seconds. For a clearer, silkier cocktail, stir gently with a bar spoon for 20–30 seconds until well chilled and properly diluted.

Strain the cocktail into the prepared chilled coupe or martini glass (or a rocks glass over fresh ice if preferred).

Express a lemon twist over the drink to release oils and drop it in, or garnish with a pickle spear perched on the rim. Serve immediately.