Is it necessary to use fresh lemon juice?

Fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for its brightness and natural acidity, which elevates the cocktail. Bottled lemon juice can alter the flavor and make the drink taste flat.

Can I substitute Midori with another melon liqueur?

Yes, you can use another melon liqueur if Midori isn’t available, but Midori is preferred for its vibrant color and unique flavor. Other melon liqueurs might be less sweet or less brightly colored, which can slightly change the taste and appearance.

What type of glass is best for a Japanese Slipper?

A coupe or martini glass is traditional, as it showcases the cocktail’s color and allows the aromas to collect. Make sure to chill the glass beforehand for the best experience.

How can I make a Japanese Slipper less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet drink, increase the amount of lemon juice slightly or reduce the Midori by 0.25 oz. You can also add a dash of bitters for extra complexity.

Japanese Slipper

Name: Japanese Slipper
Prep time: 3 min
Total time: 3 min
Yield: 1 serving
Cuisine: Cocktail
Ingredients: 1 oz Midori melon liqueur; 1 oz Cointreau; 1 oz Fresh lemon juice

The Japanese Slipper is a vibrant, emerald-green cocktail that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors. With its eye-catching color and refreshing blend of Midori melon liqueur, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice, this cocktail is as much a conversation piece as it is a delight for the palate. Simple and elegant, it’s a modern classic that brings a touch of sophistication to any gathering.

3 minutesEasy1 serving

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Ingredients

1 serving

Midori melon liqueur
30 ml (1 oz)
Provides the signature melon flavor and vibrant color
Cointreau
30 ml (1 oz)
Orange liqueur that adds sweetness and complexity
Fresh lemon juice
30 ml (1 oz)
Freshly squeezed for the best tartness and balance

Tools Needed

Cocktail shaker
Jigger
Fine strainer
Citrus juicer
Coupe or martini glass

Instructions

Chill your glass by filling it with ice water or placing it in the freezer.
Add Midori, Cointreau, and fresh lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
Discard the ice from your glass if chilling, and fine strain the cocktail into the glass.
Garnish with a thin slice of honeydew melon or a maraschino cherry for an extra pop of color.

Why You'll Love This Cocktail

Striking green color makes for a show-stopping presentation.
Sweet-tart flavor profile is refreshing and approachable.
Easy to make with only three ingredients.
A great introduction to Midori melon liqueur.
Perfect for summer parties or as a unique after-dinner drink.

History & Origin

The Japanese Slipper was created in 1984 by Jean-Paul Bourguignon, a renowned French bartender working at Mietta’s, a popular restaurant in Melbourne, Australia. Inspired by the then-newly introduced Midori melon liqueur from Japan, Bourguignon crafted this cocktail to showcase the liqueur’s unique flavor and color. Its international name reflects the liqueur’s origins, and the drink quickly became a favorite down under and beyond, celebrated for its simplicity and visual appeal.

Garnish

A thin slice of honeydew melon or a maraschino cherry. The garnish adds a touch of elegance, enhances the drink’s melon aroma, and creates a visually appealing contrast.

Nutrition Info

Approx. 180 calories per serving. Contains about 20g sugar, 0g fat, and 0g protein. Alcohol content approximately 18% ABV (varies by spirits used).

Frequently Asked Questions

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