Vodka Chilli Cocktails

This drink isn’t for the faint-hearted

This drink isn't for the faint-hearted.

The closest I've come to these in London is the chilli 'n' chocolate cocktails served in the cocktail lounges of trendy Shoreditch, deep in the bowels of Brick Lane. At £10 a glass, they're not cheap. But in such decadent places, with thick velvet curtains, antique bric-a-brac and low lighting, they are worth experiencing. Try my mother's version at home on its own, or with a spicy curry if you dare. Serves 2.

Ingredients: 4 fresh green finger chillies ½ tsp kala namak (black rock salt) ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper 2 single shots of vodka 4-6 ice cubes 1 x 350ml can of lemonade 2 slices of lime, to serve 2 Martini glasses

Method: 1. Make a 2cm (¾in) slit along the thickest part of each chilli, taking care not to cut right through. In a small cup, mix together the salt and pepper. With the tip of your knife, stuff the chilli slits with the salt and pepper mix.

2. Now measure a shot of vodka into each Martini glass and place two chillies in each. Leave to soak for at least 10 minutes, while you crush the ice. Then add a handful of crushed ice to each glass, top with lemonade and a sprinkle of any remaining salt and pepper. Decorate with a slice of lime to serve.

Miss Masala by Malika Basu is published by Collins, priced £14.99.