Make The Japanese Smash recipe perfect for spring! Blend Japanese Whisky, mint, lemon, and sugar syrup for a refreshing cocktail.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 205
Ingredients
- 2 oz Japanese Whisky
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- ¾ oz sugar syrup
- 8-12 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slice or mint sprig - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Rocks Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Shaker
- Strainer & Fine-strainer
Instructions
- Prep Glass: Fill your rocks glass with ice cubes, stir and set it aside.
- Add Mint: In a shaker, place 8-12 fresh mint leaves.
- Add Sugar Syrup: Add ¾ oz sugar syrup to the mix.
- Add Lemon Juice: Measure and add 1 oz fresh lemon juice.
- Add Whisky: Pour 2 oz Japanese Whisky into the shaker.
- Add Ice: Fill your shaker with ice.
- Shake Well: Shake the mixture well with ice until chilled.
- Strain: Fine strain the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over fresh ice.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lemon slice or mint sprig.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Japanese Whisky: If you don't have Japanese Whisky, I've used bourbon for a richer flavor or rye whiskey for a spicier kick.
- Lemon Juice: Lime juice can work in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
- Sugar Syrup: You can use honey syrup for a different sweetness profile; mix equal parts honey and warm water until dissolved.
Making a Pitcher of The Japanese Smash:
- Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all ingredients by 8. Use 16 oz of Japanese Whisky, 8 oz of lemon juice, and 6 oz of sugar syrup.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, add a handful of mint leaves and muddle gently, and combine the Whisky, lemon juice, and sugar syrup. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour the mixture into ice-filled rocks glasses, garnish with lemon slices or mint sprigs, and serve immediately.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Whisky Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic whisky alternative; these are available and mimic the flavor profile nicely.
- Proceed As Usual: Replace the Whisky with the non-alcoholic substitute and follow the original steps for a refreshing mocktail.
Making it Vegan:
The recipe is vegan-friendly, using plant-based ingredients like mint and lemon juice. Just ensure your sugar syrup is made from vegan sugar if needed.What is The Japanese Smash?
The Smash is a whisky-based cocktail made of Japanese Whiskey, fresh lemon juice, sugar syrup, and mint leaves. It’s easy to make, as it involves simple steps like shaking the ingredients with ice and straining them. This refreshing drink offers a delightful balance of sweet and citrus flavors, making it perfect for various occasions.
What is a Japanese Smash made of – The ingredients
You need these ingredients for The Smash recipe:
- Japanese Whiskey: Delivers a smooth, rich flavor that forms the cocktail’s base.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Adds a zesty, citrusy brightness to balance the sweetness.
- Sugar Syrup: Sweetens the drink and enhances its overall flavor profile.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: Infuses a refreshing aroma and taste into the cocktail.
- Ice Cubes: Cools the drink, making it crisp and refreshing.
