Kamikaze: A Brief History Of The Iconic Cocktail
Talk about an upgrade! The Kamikaze got so popular since its inception that the (original) shot was transformed into an iconic cocktail over the years. The cocktail is as loved by bartenders as it is by drinkers, due to the ease of making it. Kamikaze, which means 'divine wind' in Japanese, has inspired other cocktails and many variations of its own.
History of The Kamikaze
Theory 1
The origins of this beloved drink, according to the most popular theory, is believed to be at an American Naval base in Japan during World War II. But though Kamikaze was born during the time of conflict, it gained fame only in the 1970s.
Theory 2
There is also speculation that the disco scene of the 1970s led to the creation of this drink.
Theory 3
As per an article written in the January 1989 issue of Motorboating & Sailing Magazine, cocktail writer John Mariani states that a bartender called Tony Lauriano created the Kamikaze in 1972 while working at Les Pyrenees restaurant in New York. The drink was originally named after Andrew Lloyd Webber's famous Broadway show. It was renamed Kamikaze as people found the name strange.
Theory 4
In an October 1979 issue of Ski Magazine, an article written by Peter Miller states that the Kamikaze was invented in Florida sometime in early to mid-1970. But Miller doesn't give the cocktail a specific name. It moved from Florida to New York and thereafter became extremely popular across the United States. As per Miller, the Kamikaze was named for its strength.
The Kamikaze's sweet-sour flavour is its USP. It uses only three ingredients: vodka, triple sec and lime juice. The lime juice dampens the triple sec's sweetness and the vodka provides a bold boost to the drink. Thus, the Kamikaze is basically a Margarita with vodka instead of tequila. It became such a rage that the Cosmopolitan was created to be its cranberry version.
Most-Used Kamikaze Recipe
Ingredients
45 ml Smirnoff Triple Distilled Vodka
30 ml triple sec
30 ml lime juice
Lime slice, for garnish
Method
Mix the ingredients in a shaker with ice, and shake well. Strain the drink into a cocktail glass. Add lime slice for garnish.
Kamikaze Recipe As Recorded By Peter Miller
45 ml pre-chilled Vodka
A dash of lime juice
1 drop of Cointreau
Method
Prechill the ingredients in the freezer. Once chilled, combine these in a glass and serve.
Tips
Mixologists say that it is important to use premium ingredients for this cocktail.
Fresh lime juice can be added to enhance the flavour.
Kamikaze makes for a great aperitif, and should be served during a brunch or a party, pairing it with main dishes.
*Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
