It’s official: The biggest trend in South Africa is non-alcoholic drinks. This after the extension of current Covid-19 restrictions in the country, including the ban on alcohol sales.

On the bright side, there is an alternative for Martini lovers: non-alcoholic vodka, and guess what, you can make it at home! It might not numb the pain but at least it will taste remarkably similar.

Non-alcoholic Vodka Martini

Ingredients

• 4 russet potatoes, scrubbed
• water
• olives
• green olive juice

Instructions

• Put the cubed potatoes in a pot and cover with water by about 1″ and boil until potatoes are tender.
• Use the potatoes for a salad or corn chowder.
• Drain the water into a glass container and allow to cool to room temperature
• Pour 3 ounces of potato water (or non-alcoholic vodka) into a cocktail shaker half filled with ice
• Add 1.5 ounces green olive juice
• Add the lid and shake until the outside gets cold and frosted 
• Pour in a martini glass over 2 green olives