The Kamikaze cocktail is a straightforward yet potent concoction that offers a beautifully balanced...
KamikazeCocktail recipe
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Kamikaze cocktail is a study in balance, as the punchy tartness of lime juice cuts through the potent, clear bite of vodka, while Triple Sec brings a welcoming sweetness that ties it all together. This drink is a delightful sharp shock to the senses, best enjoyed by those who appreciate a robust, citrus-forward cocktail that doesn’t shy away from showcasing its spirited constitution.
Method
How to make a Kamikaze
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- Pour all ingredients into a shaker with ice
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- Shake well then strain into chilled cocktail glass
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- Garnish with a lime wheel and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Use fresh lime juice instead of bottled; the fresh acidity will significantly boost the cocktail's overall flavor.
- Double strain the cocktail to remove any small ice shards, ensuring a smoother drinking experience.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Kamikaze cocktail?
The Kamikaze cocktail is believed to have originated in the late 1970s to early 1980s. It's named after the Japanese word 'kamikaze', meaning 'divine wind', which refers to the suicide attacks by military aviators from the Empire of Japan against Allied naval vessels in World War II. The cocktail likely gained popularity in the United States as a shooter before becoming a well-known cocktail served in bars around the world.
Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Kamikaze?
Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of the Kamikaze by substituting the alcoholic components with non-alcoholic alternatives. For example, instead of vodka, you can use a non-alcoholic spirit or seedlip. For the Triple Sec, consider using a non-alcoholic orange-flavored syrup. The lime juice remains the same, keeping the characteristic citrus flavor of the cocktail.
What is the best way to serve the Kamikaze?
The best way to serve a Kamikaze is chilled, in a cocktail glass. The ingredients should be shaken with ice and then strained into the glass to ensure it is cold and refreshing. Traditionally, it is also served as a shooter, meaning the entire drink is downed in one gulp, but enjoying it from a cocktail glass allows for a more leisurely consumption.
What variations of the Kamikaze are there?
Several variations of the Kamikaze exist, altering either the ingredients or the proportions. Common variations include the Blue Kamikaze, where blue curacao replaces Triple Sec for a fruity flavor and a vibrant blue color. Another popular variation is the addition of cranberry juice, which adds a tart sweetness and a reddish hue to the drink. Experimenting with different citrus juices besides lime, like lemon or grapefruit, is also a popular way to create variations.
How does the alcohol content in a Kamikaze compare to other cocktails?
With an alcohol content of 26.67%, the Kamikaze is considered to be on the stronger side among classic cocktails. This is due to it being composed entirely of alcoholic ingredients, unlike other cocktails that may include non-alcoholic mixers to dilute the strength. It's comparable to other strong cocktails like the Martini or Manhattan but is more potent than many highball drinks or cocktails with a significant amount of mixer.
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Comments
Delicious! I actually made a shot version of this!
Did you just mix up the ingredients for the shot, or try some fancy layering / just tip them in? :)
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