📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Melon
Alcohol 14%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 18g
Prep time 2 minutes
Imagine diving into a pool of sweet, melon-flavored refreshment with just a hint of tangy excitement—that’s the Midori Sour cocktail for you! We’ll explore its rich history, vibrant flavors, and the artistry behind its creation. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey together to uncover the essence of this beloved drink. ⬇️
History
The Midori Sour originated in the 1970s, capturing hearts with its bright green hue and sweet taste. It was named after its key ingredient, Midori, which means “green” in Japanese. This cocktail quickly became a symbol of fun and sophistication during the disco era.
- The name ‘Midori’ was chosen because of the liqueur’s vibrant green color, which is as captivating as a lush forest.
- Midori liqueur made its international debut at the famous Studio 54 in New York City, making it an instant icon.
- The drink’s popularity soared in the 1980s, becoming a staple in bars across the globe.
The taste of a Midori Sour?
A Midori Sour tastes like a sweet and sour melody, full of melon flavors that dance on your tongue. The combination of Midori melon liqueur, citrus, and a dash of soda makes it a delightful treat.
I personally adore Midori Sours for their playful balance between sweetness and tartness, which is both refreshing and invigorating.
Interesting facts about Midori Sour
- The Midori Sour was a hit among celebrities and party-goers during the extravagant era of the 70s and 80s.
- Its distinct green color comes from the natural coloring of the Yubari and Musk melons used in Midori liqueur.
- Despite its Japanese name, Midori was actually invented by a US-based company.
Ingredients 📃
- Midori melon liqueur: 1.5 oz (45ml)
- Lemon juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Lime juice: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Soda water: A splash
- Ice cubes: As needed
- Maraschino cherry: For garnish
- Orange slice: For garnish
The best glass to serve a Midori Sour in is a lowball glass, which allows the vibrant green to shine and is just the right size for the perfect ratio of ingredients to ice. Alternatively, a martini glass can make for an elegant presentation and highlight the drink’s playful character.
Recipe. How to make Midori Sour 🍹
- Mix Midori melon liqueur with 1.5 oz and simple syrup with 0.5 oz in a shaker.
- Add lemon juice and lime juice with 0.5 oz each to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes and shake well until chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared lowball glass filled with ice.
- Top with a splash of soda water for a bubbly effect.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and an orange slice.
Midori Sours, while delightful, are a bit of a sugar bomb—so for those watching their intake, using a natural sweetener or lessening the simple syrup can be a good call. Plus, the citrus juices do offer some vitamin C, which is always a bonus!
Food Pairings
Certain dishes have the power to elevate the Midori Sour’s unique taste. Here are a few that harmonize beautifully with its sweet and sour notes.
Sushi
The cocktail’s sweetness and acidity cut through the richness of sushi, especially when paired with creamy avocado rolls or spicy tuna.
Grilled Chicken
The char from the grill and the savory flavors of the chicken are complemented by the Midori Sour’s refreshing melon and citrus notes.
Cheesecake
A slice of creamy cheesecake is a divine match for the zesty and sweet layers of a Midori Sour, enhancing the dessert’s richness.
I find the Midori Sour’s flavor to be just the right mix of fun and sophistication—it’s like a party for your taste buds!
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Bartender Advice
- To enhance the aroma, garnish with a fresh slice of melon in addition to the traditional cherry and orange.
- Always use fresh citrus juice for a brighter, more authentic flavor profile.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by tweaking the simple syrup quantity.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Midori Sour, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Midori Sour
- Lemon and lime juice: Can be adjusted for more or less tartness.
- Simple syrup: Substitute with honey or agave for a different kind of sweetness.
- Soda water: Use flavored sparkling water for an extra zing.
Midori Sour Variations
Spicy Midori Sour
- Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño to the original recipe for a kick.
- Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
Frozen Midori Sour
- Ingredients: Include a cup of crushed ice to the standard recipe.
- Recipe: Blend all ingredients until smooth for a slushy version.
Berry Midori Sour
- Ingredients: Incorporate a handful of mixed berries with the original ingredients.
- Recipe: Muddle the berries in the shaker, then follow the classic recipe.
For a non-alcoholic take, a Virgin Midori Sour can be just as delightful. Simply replace the Midori with melon syrup and omit the splash of soda for a smoother, sweeter drink.
Q&A
Can I make a Midori Sour without alcohol?
Absolutely! Swap out the Midori for a non-alcoholic melon syrup and you’ve got a delicious mocktail.
Is Midori Sour a strong drink?
Not particularly—it’s more about the flavor than the strength, with Midori being a relatively low-proof liqueur.
What’s the best way to serve a Midori Sour?
Chilled and on the rocks in a lowball glass is the go-to way to enjoy this vibrant cocktail.
Can I premix Midori Sours for a party?
Sure thing, just keep the mixture in the fridge and add the soda water right before serving to maintain the fizz.
Are there any health benefits to a Midori Sour?
In moderation, the citrus juice provides some vitamin C, but watch out for the sugar content.
How can I adjust the sweetness in my Midori Sour?
Feel free to play with the amount of simple syrup, or try alternative sweeteners like honey or agave nectar.
