A great cocktail strikes the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and bitter, with alcohol notes. But these days, mixologists all over the world are adding another flavor to their drinks: umami.
You probably think of umami as the delicious “fifth taste” that adds savory depth and tongue-coating richness to food. But wait till you taste what it can do to a mixed drink. Here are three classic cocktails, elevated to next-level deliciousness with umami-boosting ingredients like Soy Sauce, Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce, and Sesame Oil.
We hope they give you a tasty new way to say cheers. And if you’re not an alcohol fan, we’ve got some simple tips to turn these umami cocktails into equally mouthwatering mocktails.
A classic michelada is a refreshing Mexican-inspired mix of beer, tomato juice, lime juice and chili heat. This version gets its complex flavor—and an extra umami boost—from Kikkoman® Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce.
Make it a mocktail: prepare as directed, using your favorite alcohol-free beer.
Kikkoman® Sesame Oil adds a subtle hint of umami richness that helps balance the bright, crisp flavors of cucumber, lemon, and vodka.
Make it a mocktail: Instead of vodka, use your favorite alcohol-free vodka, gin, or simply go without!
Kikkoman® Soy Sauce and Sriracha Hot Chili Sauce are the secrets to giving this beloved batch cocktail an extra kick of fire and flavor.
Make it a mocktail: Swap out the vodka with your favorite alcohol-free version.