Originating from an American naval base in Japan post-World War II, this zesty vodka shot gained widespread popularity during vodka’s heyday in the 1970s and ’80s.
For aficionados of the renowned Cosmopolitan, the Kamikaze offers a similar experience in a condensed form, blending vodka, lime juice, and orange liqueur in a shaken drink—only lacking the cranberry juice to complete the transition.
Its refreshing citrus flavor might leave you craving another, but be mindful of its potent kick.
Let’s dive into how to make the Kamikaze Shot and explore the nuances that make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Kamikaze Shot Ingredients
- Vodka (2 ounces / 60 ml): Provides a clean, neutral base that allows the flavors of the orange liqueur and lime juice to shine, adding a smooth finish to the shot.
- Orange Liqueur (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml): Adds a sweet, citrusy complexity, enhancing the shot’s depth with its subtle orange notes.
- Lime Juice (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml, freshly squeezed): Adds a refreshing acidity and tartness, balancing the sweetness of the liqueur and the potency of the vodka.
Kamikaze Shot Recipe
- Preparation:
- Begin by juicing fresh limes. The freshness of the lime juice is crucial, as it brings a vibrant tartness and zesty flavor that bottled juice simply can’t match.
- Combining the Ingredients:
- In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 60 ml (2 ounces) of vodka, 22.5 ml (3/4 ounce) of orange liqueur, and 22.5 ml (3/4 ounce) of freshly squeezed lime juice.
- The presence of ice not only chills the ingredients but also dilutes the mixture slightly, creating a more harmonious blend. (The best ice for cocktails).
- Shake to Chill:
- Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This ensures that the mixture is well-chilled, enhancing the crispness of the shot and melding the flavors together.
- Serve:
- Strain the chilled mixture into two shot glasses, dividing the drink evenly. The clarity and chill of the shot make it visually appealing and inviting.
Larger Gathering? – Make A Batch
The Kamikaze is a versatile cocktail that can easily be adjusted to cater to a small group or a large party.
To serve a crowd, simply multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests and mix the drink in a pitcher.
This approach allows for effortless serving and ensures that everyone gets to enjoy this classic shot without the need for individual preparation.
The Kamikaze Shot
The Kamikaze blends vodka, lime juice, and orange liqueur, originating from an American naval base in Japan post-World War II. It gained prominence in the vodka-centric cocktail era of the 1970s and ’80s.
Often dismissed by cocktail purists mainly because it’s frequently served as a shooter, the Kamikaze is, in essence, a vodka-based Margarita. It adheres to the classic cocktail blueprint of the sour category, balancing sweet and sour elements.
The Appeal of the Kamikaze Shot
Despite being considered a less serious cocktail by some, the Kamikaze cocktail holds its own when made with high-quality ingredients and fresh juice.
Moving away from the subpar drinks of the past that might have relied on pre-made sour mixes, this version combines two ounces of vodka with orange liqueur and freshly squeezed lime juice for a refined taste.
The drink’s success lies in its classic sour cocktail structure, achieving a perfect equilibrium between sweetness and acidity. The primary distinction from a traditional Margarita is the substitution of vodka for tequila, providing a more neutral foundation that enhances the sharp zestiness of lime and orange liqueur.
Fans of the Lemon Drop or Cosmopolitan, the latter being a cranberry twist on the Kamikaze, will likely find this shot appealing as well.
Check out some more of the best vodka shot recipes.
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