History of the Japanese Slipper

Jump to the Japanese Slipper recipe

The Japanese Slipper, one of the most elegant cocktail drinks ever created, doesn't really have much to do with Japan or slippers. A subtle blend of Midori melon liqueur with Cointreau and lemon juice, the Slipper mixes sweet and tart flavors for a perfect before-dinner drink.

TL;DR

• A chic cocktail, the Japanese Slipper, artfully blends Midori, Cointreau, and lemon juice.
• Created in 1984 by Jean-Paul Bourguignon in Melbourne, it’s now a classic.
• Traditional recipe includes shaking or stirring the mix, and variations abound.
• Perfect for an elegant aperitif, it pairs well with Asian-themed dinners and dessert.

Origins and Inspiration

Why is it called the Japanese Slipper? Possibly because Midori is the Japanese word for green. It could also represent the simple elegance of the way it's served. There's something Zen-like about that single maraschino cherry floating at the bottom of cloudy soft spring-green liquor. It looks like an abstract painting of spring. An orange or lemon wedge sometimes replaces the cherry, suggesting a fan.

This lovely little cocktail came into being in 1984 at the famous Mietta's Restaurant in Melbourne, Australia, created by drink-mixing genius Jean-Paul Bourguignon. Today it's considered an International Bartenders Association classic. Midori had only existed for about six years at the time. The splashy Suntory liqueur was welcomed into bars and lounges worldwide after an enthusiastic debut at the exclusive Studio 54 club during the height of the "Saturday Night Fever" disco craze.

Classic Recipe

The traditional recipe calls for an ounce of Midori, an ounce of Cointreau, and a half ounce of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The cherry goes into the martini glass first, while the Midori and Cointreau are poured into the mixer cup followed by the lemon juice and six cubes of crushed ice.

• Shaken or Stirred: Shaking will make the drink colder, but dilute it slightly. Stirring with a bar spoon gently blends the ingredients. This part of the preparation leaves room for personal preference.
• Straining: After mixing, strain the concoction into the martini glass with the cherry already in place.

The result is a strange and wonderful combination, defying any description or comparison. Its vibrant appearance and refreshing taste makes it a standout aperitif or conversation starter at gatherings.

Variations and Twists

There are several variations to the Japanese Slipper. Some bartenders prefer to use a full ounce of fruit juice instead of a half. You might also consider trying lime juice instead of lemon for a slightly different zing. Here are some creative twists:

• Glassware: Instead of a martini glass, use a small wine glass for a more casual presentation.
• Triple Sec Alternatives: If Cointreau isn't available, any quality triple sec can be used. Russo Mandarino also makes an interesting substitute.
• Vodka Variation: For a stronger kick, some mixologists suggest substituting vodka in place of Cointreau.

For parties, feel free to jazz up the presentation with a straw, a Japanese paper umbrella, or a chrysanthemum garnish. The drink's versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, whether it's enjoying a quiet aperitif or impressing guests at a soirée.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

The fresh-tasting Japanese Slipper is a great aperitif, especially appropriate for an Asian-themed dinner. Its sweet-tart profile also lends itself well as a dessert drink. For those interested in exploring similar flavors, here are a few other cocktails to consider:

• Alligator: A mix of Midori, citrus, and sometimes cream, providing a similarly vibrant and intriguing flavor profile.
• Midori Sunrise: Combining the delightful melon liqueur with orange juice and grenadine for a visually striking and flavorful beverage.

Midori: The Star Ingredient

Midori, the star of the Japanese Slipper, has an interesting history of its own. Originally introduced by Suntory in 1978, Midori was first introduced to the world at New York’s legendary Studio 54. The bright green color and sweet, fruity flavor made it an instant hit among the party-goers of the late 70s and 80s. The name “Midori” is simply the Japanese word for “green,” emphasizing its vivid hue. Midori is flavored with two types of Japanese melons: yubari and musk melon, providing its distinctive, sweet taste.

Perfecting Your Japanese Slipper

To create the perfect Japanese Slipper, balance is key. The sweetness of the Midori and Cointreau, juxtaposed with the tartness of the lemon juice, needs to be just right. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended over bottled varieties to ensure the freshest, most vibrant flavor. Additionally, while crushed ice is traditional and adds a bit more dilution, some prefer to use whole ice cubes to maintain a slightly stronger concentration of flavors.

In this digital age, where recipes are easily accessible, the Japanese Slipper continues to maintain a special place in the cocktail repertoire of both professional bartenders and at-home mixologists. Whether you prefer the original recipe or one of its many variations, this elegant cocktail promises a delightful and refreshing experience.

Conclusion

The Japanese Slipper stands out as an iconic cocktail, blending cultural influences and modern mixology. Its ability to adapt and remain popular through the years is a testament to its timeless appeal. As you take a sip of this beautifully crafted drink, you’re not just enjoying a cocktail; you’re partaking in a piece of liquid history.

So next time you’re looking for a unique and flavorful drink to impress your friends or just to enjoy by yourself, consider shaking up a Japanese Slipper. Its enchanting blend of flavors and elegant presentation make it a true masterpiece in the world of cocktails.