The Bacon Salt Martini is a savoury, bacon-flavoured twist on a classic vodka martini cocktail. It uses Bacon Salt (a seasoned salt product) to rim the glass, adding a smoky, salty, umami-packed bacon essence without needing to infuse the vodka itself.
Origin and Concept
This cocktail gained attention around 2008 as part of a “Mixology Monday” event themed around “spice” (broadly including salts and seasonings). It was created to showcase J&D’s Bacon Salt, a popular vegetarian-friendly seasoning that mimics the flavor of hickory-smoked bacon using salt, natural flavours, and spices. It’s a fun, novelty drink for bacon lovers, turning a simple martini into something savoury and brunch- or appetizer-friendly.
Ingredients (for one cocktail)
- 3 oz vodka (Kettle One or similar recommended)
- Splash of dry vermouth
- Bacon Salt (original or peppered variety)
- Lemon wedge (for rimming)
Instructions
- Chill a martini glass.
- Rinse the chilled glass with a splash of dry vermouth (discard excess or leave a tiny bit).
- Rub the rim of the glass with the lemon wedge to moisten it.
- Dip the rim into a plate of Bacon Salt to coat it generously.
- Pour the vodka (stirred or shaken with ice, depending on preference) into the prepared glass.
It’s essentially a dry vodka martini with a bold, bacon-seasoned rim that flavours each sip. Variations might include bacon-infused vodka for extra intensity or garnishes like a strip of crispy bacon.
Flavour Profile
Expect a clean, crisp vodka base with herbal notes from the vermouth, enhanced by the salty, smoky, slightly savoury “bacon” rim. The salt adds crunch and seasoning that pairs well with the alcohol’s neutrality. It’s not sweet—it’s more like a sophisticated, meaty aperitif or a playful Bloody Mary alternative.
