The Umami Power of Miso: Exploring Miso-Infused Cocktails at Izakaya Juraku
Miso is a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, known for its deep umami flavor and versatility. Traditionally used in soups, marinades, and glazes, miso has found its way into an unexpected yet exciting place—cocktails. At Izakaya Juraku, we embrace the bold and unique by infusing miso into our drinks, creating savory-sweet concoctions that enhance the natural complexity of spirits like whisky and shochu.
A Brief History of Miso
Miso’s origins trace back over 1,000 years, with roots in China before becoming a staple in Japan. Made from fermented soybeans, salt, and koji (a beneficial mold essential for Japanese fermentation), miso develops rich umami notes that range from sweet and mild to deep and intense, depending on the type. White miso (shiro miso) is delicate and slightly sweet, while red miso (aka miso) is bolder, more aged, and packed with umami. This versatility makes it an exciting ingredient beyond traditional cooking, even in mixology.
Miso in Cocktails: A Game-Changer
Adding miso to cocktails may sound unconventional, but it works surprisingly well. The umami depth balances sweetness and acidity, providing a rounder mouthfeel and enhancing the drink’s overall complexity. At Izakaya Juraku, we’ve experimented with miso in various ways, from syrups to fat-washing techniques, to create cocktails that are both intriguing and delicious.
Our Signature Miso Cocktail: If You Know You Know, Yakiimo!
One of our standout miso-infused drinks is If You Know You Know, Yakiimo!. This cocktail takes Kuro Kirishima shochu and elevates it with butter, miso, and honey-roasted Japanese sweet potato. The result is a smooth, slightly savory twist, with a rich mouthfeel and a delicate hint of umami.
Base Spirit: Kuro Kirishima shochu infused with butter, miso, and honey-roasted Japanese sweet potato
Sweetener: Natural sweetness from the roasted Japanese sweet potato
Bitters: A few dashes of aromatic bitters to round out the flavors
Garnish: Orange peel for a bright citrus aroma
The result? A cocktail that’s deeply satisfying, silky, and unlike anything else you’ve tasted.
Why You Should Try Miso Cocktails
Miso-infused drinks offer a unique way to experience umami outside of food. The savory-sweet balance pairs beautifully with Japanese whisky, shochu, and even sake-based cocktails. If you’re looking for something adventurous yet refined, miso cocktails are the perfect way to expand your palate.
Next time you visit Izakaya Juraku, ask for If You Know You Know, Yakiimo! or another miso-infused creation. We promise it will be an unforgettable sip.
Kanpai!