A Kamikaze drink is a cocktail made with equal parts vodka, triple sec, and lime juice, typically served as a shot or in a cocktail glass.
The Kamikaze is a classic vodka cocktail that packs a punch with its perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. Made with just three ingredients—vodka, triple sec, and lime juice—this drink has stood the test of time since its creation in post-WWII Japan.
The History of the Kamikaze Cocktail
The Kamikaze cocktail was invented on an American naval base in Japan after World War II. While it gained initial popularity among military personnel, it didn’t become mainstream until the vodka craze of the 1970s and 80s. The name “Kamikaze” translates to “divine wind,” referencing a typhoon that protected Japan from Mongol invasion in the 13th century.
Why the Controversial Name?
Some bartenders avoid the name due to its association with WWII suicide pilots, but most agree the drink was named for its bold flavors and alcohol kick rather than any military connection. The cocktail’s vibrant taste and potency certainly live up to its explosive name.
Classic Kamikaze Recipe
The traditional Kamikaze follows a simple 1:1:1 ratio:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Vodka | 1 oz |
| Triple sec | 1 oz |
| Fresh lime juice | 1 oz |
Preparation Steps
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
- Add all ingredients
- Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass
- Garnish with lime wedge or twist
Why Fresh Ingredients Matter
While you could use bottled lime juice for convenience, fresh-squeezed lime makes a world of difference in this simple cocktail. As Liquor.com notes, “with such few ingredients, the Kamikaze is infinitely better with freshly squeezed lime juice.”
The same goes for your orange liqueur—while triple sec works fine, upgrading to quality curaçao elevates the drink significantly.
Kamikaze Variations to Try
Blue Kamikaze
Substitute blue curaçao for triple sec to create a vibrant blue version of this classic. This colorful variation has become particularly popular as a shooter in bars worldwide.
Flavored Vodka Kamikazes
Experiment with different vodka infusions:
- Citrus vodka for extra zing
- Berry vodka for fruity notes
- Coconut vodka for tropical flair
Cosmopolitan Connection
Did you know the Cosmopolitan was actually created as a cranberry-infused riff on the Kamikaze? Both drinks share the same vodka-orange-lime foundation.
Serving Suggestions
While often served as a shooter, the Kamikaze shines as a proper cocktail. Serve it:
- Straight up in a chilled martini glass
- On the rocks in an old-fashioned glass
- As a batch cocktail for parties (just multiply the recipe)
For large gatherings, consider using a commercial blender to mix larger quantities while maintaining the proper chill.
Nutritional Information
A standard Kamikaze contains about:
- 200 calories
- 0g fat
- 10g carbs
- 0g protein
At around 25% ABV, it’s one of the stronger cocktails out there. As The Spruce Eats warns, “if you want to avoid a hangover, think twice about mixing up another round.”
Why Bartenders Love the Kamikaze
Despite its reputation as a simple shot, professional bartenders appreciate the Kamikaze for its:
- Classic sour cocktail structure
- Perfect balance of sweet and tart
- Versatility as both shooter and sipping drink
- Foundation for countless variations
As cocktail culture continues to evolve, the Kamikaze remains a testament to the power of simple, well-balanced ingredients. Whether you’re a home mixologist or professional bartender, mastering this classic opens doors to endless creative possibilities.
