
This is a shaken, not stirred, cocktail. But don’t worry if you don’t have a cocktail shaker. A simple mason jar — or any jar with a lid — is a good substitute, and can still make a thoroughly delicious drink.
Mix the zest of the lemon and the sugar together on a small plate, rubbing it between your fingers to release the oils from the peel. Set aside.
Fill a mason jar halfway with ice. Add the vodka, triple sec, lemon juice and simple syrup. Put the lid on and shake vigorously for 30 seconds. Rub a lemon half on the edge of a martini glass to wet the glass. Dip the rim in the plate of lemon sugar. Pour the martini into the glass. Garnish by floating the lemon slice on top.
Optional: Sprinkle some of the remaining sugar onto one side of the lemon slice. Using a kitchen torch, brulé the lemon, then float it in the glass bruléed-side up before serving.