Melon-Lime Soda

September 29, 2023

The Melon-Lime Soda is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that combines the bright citrus notes of lime vodka with the sweet, tropical essence of Midori melon liqueur. A dash of lime and sudachi juices adds a zesty kick, while a homemade matcha-lime cordial introduces a delicate earthy undertone. Topped with chilled soda water and garnished with a fresh lime leaf, it's a drink that balances lively citrus and mellow melon, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Recipe: Katana Kitten

Photo: Katana Kitten

green   earthy   underground

  • • Glassware: Beer glass

    • Tools: Cocktail shaker and strainer

    • Garnish: Fresh lime leaf

    • Difficulty: ★★★☆☆

    • ABV: 15-20%

    • Updated: September 29, 2023

  • Absolut lime vodka infuses the cocktail with a refreshing lime essence, offering a zesty and crisp base spirit.

    Substitutions:

    • Regular Vodka + Lime Zest: You can use regular vodka and add a small amount of lime zest to infuse it with lime flavor. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight before using.

    • Citrus-Flavored Vodka: If you have a different citrus-flavored vodka on hand (like lemon or orange), you can use it as a substitute. Adjust the lime juice accordingly to maintain balance.

  • Midori brings a vibrant green melon flavor with a touch of sweetness, adding a luscious fruitiness.

    Substitutions:

    • Melon Liqueur (Non-Branded): If you don't have Midori specifically, any other brand of melon liqueur will work as a substitute. They may have slightly different flavor profiles, so adjust quantities accordingly.

    • Fresh Melon Juice + Melon Liqueur (optional): If you prefer a more natural melon flavor, you can use fresh melon juice and add a touch of melon liqueur (if available) for an extra boost of sweetness.

  • Lime and Sudachi Juice: These citrus juices contribute tangy and zesty notes, providing a balanced acidity.

    Substitutions:

    • Yuzu Juice: Yuzu is a citrus fruit with a similar tartness to sudachi. If you have yuzu juice, it can be used as a substitute.

    • Lemon Juice: While not an exact match, lemon juice can provide a tangy citrus element to the cocktail.

  • Lime and Sudachi Juice: These citrus juices contribute tangy and zesty notes, providing a balanced acidity.

    Substitutions:

    • Yuzu Juice: Yuzu is a citrus fruit with a similar tartness to sudachi. If you have yuzu juice, it can be used as a substitute.

    • Lemon Juice: While not an exact match, lemon juice can provide a tangy citrus element to the cocktail.

  • Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, combines with lime to create a unique cordial with earthy and citrusy undertones.

    Ingredients:

    • 1 1/4 cups sugar

    • 1 1/4 cups water

    • zest of 4 limes, cut into strips with a peeler or paring knife

    • 2 1/2 teaspoons matcha green tea powder

    Preparation:

    • Reserve 3 tablespoons of the water.

    • Combine the sugar and remaining water in a saucepan, and warm over low heat to just below a simmer, stirring constantly.

    • Once all the sugar has dissolved and just as the mixture begins to simmer, remove from the heat.

    • Add the lime zest, cover the saucepan, and let cool to room temperature.

    • The edges of the lime zest should be lightly browned.

    • Strain the syrup through cheesecloth into an airtight 1-pint glass container.

    • In a small bowl, whisk the matcha powder in the reserved 3 tablespoons water until fully combined.

    • Add the matcha solution to the syrup, and stir well to combine.

    • Seal the container and store in the refrigerator for up to one month.

    • Shake the syrup well before use to reincorporate any matcha that has settled at the bottom.

    Substitutions:

    • Matcha Syrup + Lime Juice: Combine matcha powder with simple syrup to create a matcha syrup. Adjust sweetness to taste. Add lime juice for a similar effect.

    • Green Tea Powder (Matcha) + Lime Simple Syrup: If you have green tea powder (matcha), mix it with a lime-infused simple syrup. Adjust sweetness and tartness to your liking.

  • Soda water adds effervescence, making the drink refreshing and fizzy.

  • This garnish not only enhances the cocktail's aroma but also contributes to its visual appeal.

    Substitutions:

    • Lime Zest: If you don't have access to fresh lime leaves, you can use lime zest to add a similar citrusy aroma to the drink.

    • Kaffir Lime Leaf (if available): This can be used as a substitute for a more exotic and aromatic twist.

Ingredients

  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine Absolut Lime vodka, Midori melon liqueur, lime juice, sudachi juice, and matcha-lime cordial.

  2. Add ice and shake well.

  3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass.

  4. Top with soda water.

  5. Garnish with a fresh lime leaf.

Preparation

herbal depths slow dance,
green melon and lime unite
fresh leaf, pure delight.

“The Melon-Lime Soda is a symphony of bright and tropical flavors. The lime vodka bursts forth with zesty citrus notes, which intermingle seamlessly with the sweet, luscious melon essence of the Midori liqueur. The addition of lime and sudachi juices adds a dynamic layer of tartness, creating a lively dance on the palate. What truly sets this cocktail apart is the homemade matcha-lime cordial. Its earthy undertones provide a grounding contrast to the lively citrus, resulting in a drink that is both refreshing and deeply nuanced.

The garnish of a fresh lime leaf adds a final flourish, releasing a burst of aromatic oils with each sip. As you bring the glass to your lips, the fragrance mingles with the vibrant flavors, creating a sensory experience that is as delightful as it is invigorating. The Melon-Lime Soda is an ode to the lively spirit of citrus, the lushness of melon, and the earthy comfort of matcha, all perfectly balanced in a single glass.”

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