Kamikaze Shot (Classic Vodka, Lime & Triple Sec Shooter)
The Kamikaze Shot is a tangy, three-part vodka cocktail that delivers citrus brightness and a clean, balanced finish. A staple of 1980s bar culture, it remains one of the simplest and most satisfying shooters ever mixed.
Background
The Kamikaze originated in postwar Japan and spread through American nightlife in the 1970s and 1980s. Its appeal lies in its simplicity — just vodka, triple sec, and lime juice in equal parts. The result is bright, tart, and effortlessly drinkable.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
Vodka – crisp, neutral base spirit.
Triple Sec – adds sweet orange depth.
Lime Juice – sharp acidity that completes the balance.
Equipment
Cocktail shaker, ice, and shot glass.
Why It Works
The 1:1:1 ratio ensures perfect harmony between sweet, sour, and spirit. It’s a no-fuss formula that works every time — equally good as a shot or served up as a mini cocktail.
Variations
- Try citrus-flavored vodka for a fruitier edge.
- Swap lime for lemon juice for a softer tartness.
- Serve it “up” in a cocktail glass for a classic presentation.
Tips & Serving
Serve well chilled in a frosted shot glass. A tiny lime wedge or twist adds aroma without altering the drink’s balance.
Kamikaze Shot Recipe
Type of Glass
Shot Glass
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
- 1/2 oz.
Directions
- Fill a shaker with ice.
- Add vodka, triple sec, and lime juice.
- Shake until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled shot glass and serve immediately.
Simple, sharp, and timeless — the Kamikaze Shot proves that balance and brightness never go out of style.