When it comes to Japanese spirits, most people think of sake or whisky. However, there is one spirit that is often overlooked but has been gaining popularity in recent years: shochu.
This traditional Japanese distilled spirit is made from a variety of ingredients, such as sweet potato, barley, or rice, and has a distinct flavor profile and aroma.
Shochu is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed neat or mixed in cocktails. In fact, some of the best Japanese cocktails are made with shochu.
Its low alcohol content and unique taste make it a perfect base for refreshing and complex drinks that are sure to impress your guests.
Whether you're a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist, experimenting with shochu cocktails is a fun and rewarding experience.
With so many different types of shochu available, the possibilities for creating unique and delicious drinks are endless. From fruity and sweet to savory and spicy, there's a shochu cocktail out there for everyone.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best Japanese shochu cocktail recipes that you can easily make at home.
We'll take a closer look at the ingredients, techniques, and flavor profiles of each drink, so you can impress your friends and family with your newfound mixology skills. So, grab your shaker and let's get started!
1. Shochu & Tonic
Shochu & Tonic is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that highlights the unique characteristics of Japanese Shochu. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to try Shochu for the first time, as it allows the spirit to shine without being masked by too many flavors.
The addition of Rinomato Americano provides a herbaceous note to the cocktail, making it a perfect drink for any occasion. Once you get comfortable with the traits of Shochu, you can experiment with mixing it in a variety of ways. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, Shochu & Tonic is definitely worth a shot.
2. Nankai Chili Mango
If you're looking for an exciting Japanese Shochu cocktail recipe to try, the Nankai Chili Mango is a must-try. This cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, with the combination of mango and chili flavors. The Nankai Shochu adds a unique twist to this classic Mexican flavor combination, making it a refreshing summer drink.
The cocktail is easy to make, and there are variations you can try, such as adding beer or extra lime juice. The Nankai Chili Mango is a popular choice among cocktail enthusiasts, and it's not hard to see why. It's a perfect drink to enjoy with friends or at a party. So, why not give it a try and see what all the fuss is about?
3. Grape Escape Cocktail
The Grape Escape Cocktail is a unique and flavorful cocktail that features sweet potato shochu as its base. The pungent aroma of the shochu is balanced by the sweetness of Concord grapes, which are muddled into the cocktail to give it a tangy and fruity flavor.
The addition of pink peppercorns and honey add warmth and sweetness to the cocktail, making it a perfect drink for any occasion. If you're looking for a new and exciting cocktail to try, the Grape Escape is definitely worth a taste.
4. Yuzu Pop
If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail, look no further than the Yuzu Pop. This Japanese twist on the classic Moscow Mule is made with Nankai Shochu, ginger ale, and yuzu juice. The result is a delicious and aromatic drink that pairs perfectly with any meal.
What sets the Yuzu Pop apart from other cocktails is its lower calorie and sugar content, making it a guilt-free indulgence. This cocktail is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their cocktail repertoire and experience the flavors of Japan.
5. Shiso-Jito
The Shiso-Jito is a refreshing and lower calorie Japanese twist on the classic Cuban mojito. Instead of using mint leaves, this cocktail features shiso leaves, a common herb used in Japanese cuisine. The use of Nankai Shochu, a shochu made from kokuto sugar, gives this cocktail a unique flavor profile with fruitier tones.
With only 111 calories and 7.5 grams of sugar, it's a healthier alternative to the traditional mojito. The vacuum distillation of the Nankai Shochu also makes for an incredibly smooth and crisp drink, perfect for pairing with food. If you're looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to try, the Shiso-Jito is definitely worth a taste.
6. Japanese Christmas Punch
The Japanese Christmas Punch is a delightful holiday punch that is perfect for a group gathering. It is made with Barley Shochu, Japanese Ume Plum Sake, and a holiday tea with white cranberry. The use of Shochu makes it light on the palate, and the delicate flavors of the tea and white cranberry juice complement the drink perfectly.
The bitters used in the cocktail are an Aromatic Blend, which adds a traditional touch to the drink. Overall, the Japanese Christmas Punch is a great option for those who want a non-aggressive, easy-to-drink cocktail that is perfect for the holiday season.
7. Japanese-Style Lemon Sour
If you're looking for a refreshing and citrusy cocktail, then the Japanese-Style Lemon Sour is the perfect choice for you. This cocktail is a popular drink in Japan and has been booming since 2017. It's a dry and unsweet cocktail that is made with lemon-infused vodka or Japanese Shochu, frozen cut lemons, and carbonated water.
The lemon-infused vodka provides a richer citrusy flavor and aroma to the drink, while the frozen cut lemons keep the cocktail cold without watering it down. This cocktail is perfect for those who want to experience the authentic taste of Japan's Izakaya drink. So, if you're looking for a refreshing and authentic Japanese cocktail, then the Japanese-Style Lemon Sour is definitely worth a try.
8. Shio Lemon Sour
Shio Lemon Sour is a unique Japanese Shochu Cocktail that combines the best of both worlds: traditional Moroccan preserved lemon and Japanese lemon sour. This cocktail is a perfect blend of salty, refreshing, and bitter flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The preserved lemon adds a citrusy, salty twist to the classic lemon sour cocktail, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore new flavors.
It's a perfect drink for those who prefer a tangy and salty taste in their cocktails. The shio lemon's viscous texture adds a new dimension to the cocktail, making it a treat for the senses. If you're looking for something new and exciting to try, the Shio Lemon Sour is a must-have on your list of Japanese Shochu Cocktails.
