Kamikaze cocktail

The Kamikaze cocktail is a sweet, tart drink that blends vodka, triple sec and lime juice in equally delicious proportions.

It is thought that Kamikaze was invented at an American naval base in Japan after World War II, and became hit mainstream popularity when vodka was accepted in the US in the 1970s. The original Kamikaze was served in a shot glass and only later became a fully-fledged cocktail

The Japanese word kamikaze translates as divine wind, although is used to refer to the suicidal attacks made by Japanese aircraft during World War II.

  • Total Time:
  • Type: Cocktail
  • Units: 2

Equipment

  • martini glass

Ingredients

  • 30 ml vodka
  • 30 ml triple sec
  • 30 ml lime juice
  • lime wedge (to garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pour in all the ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled.
  2. Strain into a chilled Martini glass.
  3. Garnish with a lime wedge.
The Kamikaze was one of the first vodka-based cocktails to gain popularity in the U.S. after World War II, often served as a shooter in the ’80s.

FAQ

Is the Kamikaze cocktail the same as the Kamikaze shot?

The Kamikaze cocktail and shot use the same recipe – vodka, triple sec, and lime juice – but they’re served differently. The cocktail is usually poured into a martini glass and sipped, while the Kamikaze shot is shaken and served in a shot glass for quick drinking.

What’s the difference between a Kamikaze and a Blue Kamikaze?

The Blue Kamikaze Shot swaps the clear triple sec for blue curaçao, giving it a sweeter orange flavour and a striking neon-blue colour. It’s a playful variation, but otherwise mixed the same way as the original.

What vodka cocktails are best?

If you like a vodka drink like the Kamikaze cocktail, we also have a roundup of our top ten cocktails with vodka, its not official, but we think you’ll find these cocktails are all worth trying.

Is the Kamikaze just a vodka margarita?

Sort of – it shares ingredients (vodka, lime, triple sec) but lacks the tequila and salt rim, giving it a cleaner, sharper profile.

How many calories are in a Kamikaze cocktail?

A Kamikaze cocktail contains roughly 180–200 calories, depending on the brand of triple sec and how much sugar is in the lime juice used.

Please note that the units field is an estimation, and will vary depending on the type and quantity of alcohol used. Please drink responsibly and legally.