How Rachael Ray’s Husband Makes Her the Perfect Martini
Rachael Ray, left, and husband John Cusimano attend the premiere of “We Feed People” at the SVA Theatre on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, in New York. (Photo: Evan Agostini/Invision/AP)
Renowned culinary personality Rachael Ray has revealed insights into the at-home mixology habits of her husband in a recent interview with Tasting Table. With a multifaceted background in law, acting and music, John Cusimano has formulated many a cocktail recipe for his wife. One such recipe, a particularly delicious gin martini, has captured Ray’s taste buds, as she shared that it’s her favorite drink to request from her husband.
“He just makes a fantastic martini,” Ray said.
According to Tasting Table, Cusimano’s recipe transforms the timeless classic with his own personal twist. Differing from the modern gin martini, which primarily comprises gin and dry vermouth with either a lemon peel or olive garnish, Cusimano’s rendition of this iconic drink features Castelvetrano olives and a dash of orange bitters. Notably, Cusimano’s version pays homage to early 20th-century martini recipes, which traditionally incorporated bitters and sugar, or a sweetened style of gin called Old Tom.
Ray’s deep affection for gin goes beyond a tasty cocktail. The celebrity chef has also revealed that she is set to unveil her own gin business, created in collaboration with Cusimano and Brian Facquet of Do Good Spirits. Named Staple Gin, the new booze brand will offer two expressions: one with “olive and herb” tasting notes, and a second (which is not yet finished, per Tasting Table) with “citrusy and bright” flavors.
There’s truly a magnetic connection between chefs and gin, as culinary stars Gordon Ramsay and Robert Irvine also own their own gin brands. Additionally, Michelin-starred chef Michael Wignall recently released a gin inspired by a fusion of Japanese and English flavors.
Read next:
How to Make the Perfect Negroni, According to Anthony Bourdain
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