As a bartender, I have seen many trends come and go over the years. But one that has always intrigued me is the concept of umami.
Most commonly associated with the savory flavor of mushrooms, umami is actually a taste receptor that responds to glutamate, an amino acid found in many foods.
Umami has been described as the fifth taste, alongside sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. It adds depth and complexity to food, and can do the same for cocktails.
When used correctly, umami ingredients can enhance the flavor of a drink and make it more satisfying.
But what exactly are umami ingredients? They can be anything from soy sauce and fish sauce to tomato juice and Parmesan cheese.
The key is to find the right balance between umami and the other flavors in the cocktail. Too much umami can overpower the drink and make it unpalatable.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite umami cocktail recipes. These drinks are perfect for those who want to explore the world of umami and take their cocktail game to the next level.
From savory to sweet, there's a drink for everyone on this list. So, let's dive in and explore the best umami cocktails out there!
1. Yuzu Martini
The Yuzu Martini is a refreshing and balanced cocktail that is perfect for those looking for a low ABV drink. Made with Nankai Shochu, this cocktail is a great version of a classic dry martini, with a slightly higher shochu to vermouth ratio and a splash of yuzu juice for added citrus notes.
The Nankai Shochu enhances umami notes in food, making it a great pairing for meals. For those following a keto diet, this cocktail is a great option as it is low in calories, carbs, and sugar. Overall, the Yuzu Martini is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a delicious and low ABV drink.
2. Magic Mushroom Cocktail
The Magic Mushroom Cocktail is a savory delight that is sure to please anyone looking for a unique and flavorful drink. This cocktail features a base of vodka, with a mix of amaro and lemon juice for a herbal and acidic punch.
The addition of dill tincture and truffle olive oil give the drink an interesting twist, with the olive oil providing a smooth and luxurious mouthfeel. This cocktail is a great example of how umami flavors can be incorporated into cocktails, and is definitely worth trying for anyone looking for a new and exciting drink experience.
3. The Benefit
If you're looking for a unique cocktail to impress your guests, look no further than "The Benefit." This beautiful pink sake cocktail features ginger, lemongrass, and grapefruit, making for a complex and refreshing taste. The addition of vodka gives it an extra kick, perfect for a night out.
The sake used in this recipe, Junmai Gingo, is a high-quality but affordable option that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a large party, "The Benefit" is sure to be a hit.
4. Dirty Martini
The Dirty Martini is a classic cocktail that has been around since the mid-1800s. It's a simple yet sophisticated drink that combines gin with a splash of olive brine, giving it a salty and briny flavor. The addition of olives also adds a unique umami taste to the cocktail.
This drink is perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of dirtiness in their martini. The best part about the Dirty Martini is that it's versatile and can be made with different types of gin and olives, allowing for a personalized touch. If you're looking for a cocktail that's both classic and flavorful, the Dirty Martini is definitely worth trying.
5. Bloody Bull Cocktail
The Bloody Bull Cocktail is a savory twist on the classic Bloody Mary, made with beef bone broth to deepen the umami flavor. It's seasoned with celery salt, chili powder, and paprika, and made with vodka, tomato juice, hot sauce, lemon, and Worcestershire.
The addition of bone broth offers a strong punch of umami flavor, making it a more health-conscious cocktail. It's perfect for those who crave a unique and flavorful cocktail.
