Looking for a citrusy cocktail with a Japanese twist? Try the Yuzu Mule Cocktail. This vegan drink combines the tangy flavor of yuzu, smooth Haku Vodka, and the spice of ginger beer for a simple and delicious experience.
Perfect for any occasion, it pairs well with Japanese-inspired dishes like sweet potato katsu curry, togarashi fries, or an oyster mushroom burger.
It's so simple—just shake the ingredients in a cocktail shaker, pour over ice, and top with ginger beer. Quick, unique, and highly quaffable, the Yuzu Mule Cocktail is a beautifully balanced cocktail.
What is a Yuzu Mule?
The Yuzu Mule is a fresh take on the classic Moscow Mule. Instead of lime juice, we use yuzu juice, a beloved Japanese citrus fruit, to give the drink its unique flavor profile. The result is a cocktail that’s bright, tart, and utterly irresistible.
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Ingredients
Serves 1 | Prep time 5 mins
- 50 ml Haku Vodka
- 25 ml tosa yuzu juice
- 12.5 ml simple syrup
- Ginger beer
- ⅛ lime segment
- A large fresh mint sprig (for the garnish)
Instructions
1. Fill your cocktail shaker with ice to ensure the drink is perfectly chilled.
2. Add Haku Vodka, yuzu juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Cover the shaker with the lid and shake vigorously for around 10 seconds to blend the flavors.
4. Strain the mixture into your chilled highball glass over fresh ice.
5. Pour ginger beer into the glass until it’s filled to the brim.
6. Squeeze the lime on top, drop it in, and garnish the cocktail with a sprig of mint.
Hint: To enhance the freshness, lightly slap the mint sprig between your palms before garnishing. This releases the oils and gives your cocktail a wonderfully aromatic touch.
Why Choose Haku Vodka?
Haku Vodka is crafted in Japan using soft, Japanese white rice and filtered through bamboo charcoal to deliver a clean and subtly sweet flavor. Its smoothness pairs beautifully with the tangy yuzu, making it a match made in cocktail heaven.
What is Yuzu, and Why Use Bottled Tosa Yuzu Juice?
Yuzu is a fragrant citrus fruit native to Japan. It has a tart, aromatic flavor that’s often described as a blend of grapefruit, lemon, and mandarin orange. Unfortunately, finding fresh yuzu outside Japan can be a challenge, and it’s often quite expensive.
That’s why bottled Tosa yuzu juice is a fantastic alternative. It’s convenient, consistent, and retains the fresh, vibrant flavor you need to perfect this yuzu cocktail.
Substitutions
- No Yuzu Juice? Substitute with a mix of fresh lemon and lime juice for a similar tangy flavor.
- Non-Alcoholic Version? Swap Haku Vodka for sparkling water or a non-alcoholic spirit like Seedlip.
- Ginger Beer Alternative: Try a high-quality ginger ale for a softer ginger kick for your yuzu cocktail experience.
Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add a splash of pineapple juice or a few chunks of muddled mango to bring a tropical flair to your cocktail.
- Spicy Kick: Include a slice of fresh jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their drinks.
- Berry Blend: Toss in a handful of fresh raspberries or blueberries for a slightly sweet, fruity variation.
Equipment
To make this yuzu cocktail you'll need the following pieces of equipment:
Highball glass - It's essential to choose the right-sized glass to avoid wastage and ensure your cocktail looks visually appealing.
Cocktail making kit (this includes a measuring jigger, shaker and strainer).
Storage
This cocktail is best served fresh. If you’re preparing for a large group, pre-mix the vodka, yuzu juice, and simple syrup, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add ginger beer and garnishes just before serving.
3 Tips for Making the Perfect Yuzu Mule
- Shake your ingredients thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Chill your glass in advance for a truly refreshing experience.
- Always use fresh ginger beer for maximum fizziness.
FAQ
Yuzu is tart and aromatic, often compared to a mix of grapefruit, lemon, and mandarin orange.
Yes, but ginger beer adds a spicy kick that perfectly complements yuzu’s tang.
Look for bottled Tosa yuzu juice at Asian grocery stores or online retailers like amazon.
Related
Looking for more Japanese drinks recipes? Try these:
Pairing
Here are some vegan Japanese side dishes to serve with your Yuzu Mule Cocktail:
Yuzu Mule Cocktail
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail shaker
- 1 Measuring jigger
- 1 Highball glass
- 1 Cocktail strainer
Ingredients
- 50 ml Haku Vodka
- 25 ml yuzu juice
- 12.5 ml simple syrup
- 50 ml Ginger beer
- ⅛ lime (segment)
For garnish:
- A fresh mint sprig
Instructions
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice to ensure the drink is perfectly chilled.
- Add Haku Vodka, yuzu juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Cover the shaker with the lid and shake vigorously for around 10 seconds to blend the flavors.
- Strain the mixture into your chilled highball glass over fresh ice.
- Pour ginger beer into the glass until it’s filled to the brim.
- Squeeze the lime on top, drop it in, and garnish the cocktail with a sprig of fresh mint. Sip, savor, and enjoy!
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