Leap into the weekend with a zesty Lemongrass Kangaroo

Cheers to the weekend! Welcome back to 3-Ingredient Happy Hour, your go-to column for simple yet scrumptious drinks. Today, we're diving into the Kangaroo, a cocktail that some (incorrect) folks mistakenly call 'a vodka martini.'

Now, there’s no such thing as a vodka martini—because martinis are made with gin. But that doesn’t mean a mix of chilled vodka and dry vermouth isn’t great. In fact, it’s quite refreshing, especially if you want flavors that don’t get lost in the strong juniper taste of gin. Originally, this drink was known as the 'Kangaroo,' and I believe it’s time for its comeback, heralding a new era of peace in the cocktail world.

Of course, I can never leave well enough alone, so I added my own twist to the classic by incorporating a hint of

lemongrass paste, which I had bought weeks ago and then completely forgot about. To whip up this vibrant drink, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 1/4 ounces vodka

• 3/4 ounce dry vermouth

• 1/2 teaspoon lemongrass paste (or 1/2 teaspoon fresh, crushed lemongrass)

Pour everything into a cocktail glass (or a pint glass) filled with ice and stir until it reaches an uncomfortably cold temperature. Strain the mixture into a coupe glass through a fine mesh strainer. Garnish with nothing at all.