Pomeapple Martinis with Homemade Pineapple Infused Vodka

Considering the fact that Kansas City is widely known for our beef, and the fact that I’m a big supporter in the motto, “eat local, cook local,” I’m awfully ashamed to admit that my two favorite steakhouses aren’t local to the area at all. In fact, they’re both actually chain restaurants – although I’m sure the beef they serve is sourced from local farmers… Or at least that’s what I tell myself.

It’s a running debate in my family, which one of these two restaurants has the better steak, but we’re all in agreement that Capital Grille hands down has the best drinks. I’m sure if there’s one in your neck of the woods, you’ve heard of their tried and true signature drink, the Stoli Doli. Now, I’ve known about this particular cocktail since before I was of legal drinking age because my Mom was mildly obsessed with them, so much so, that she bribed kindly asked the waiter to give her the recipe. (No, I was not allowed a sip until I was over 21) She was shocked to learn that all it consists of is Stoli vodka soaked with pineapple and served up in a martini glass – no wonder half a glass will knock you off your feet!

Now that I am of legal drinking age I also love this deceptively potent cocktail and have taken after my mother and made it at home. The key is the amount of time you let the vodka soak, and my friends you have to be patient. Ten days is perfect, but I actually let it soak up to two weeks for maximum pineapple flavor and minimum vodka flavor.

You can serve these just like Capital Grille does, straight up and S-T-R-O-N-G, or you can use the infused vodka as a base and get as creative as you’d like with it. This particular time I wanted to create a festive drink for the holidays with a little pomegranate juice and bubbly, and while it’s not pure vodka like the Stoli Doli, it’s still outrageously strong and ridiculously addictive, so watch out!