Paul Kushner
The Watermelon Sake Slushie is icy, fresh, and perfect for hot days. It blends sweet, juicy watermelon with the light, smooth flavor of sake for a frozen drink that’s both mellow and fun. Just toss everything in a blender with some ice, and you’ve got a refreshing cocktail that’s easy to sip and super chill. The sake adds a subtle touch without overpowering the fruit, making this a great pick for poolside hangs, barbecues, or anytime you want something cool and simple. Serve it with a wedge of watermelon or a squeeze of lime to finish it off.
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Tasting Notes
The Watermelon Sake Slushie is a bright, icy cocktail that blends juicy watermelon with the delicate umami of sake for a refreshing, low-ABV treat. Lime juice adds a zesty citrus lift, while optional simple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit. The crushed ice creates a smooth, frozen texture, perfect for beating the heat. This slushie is light, fruity, and subtly floral, with a clean finish and a cooling mint garnish. Whether served poolside or at a summer brunch, it’s a crisp, energizing drink that delivers flavor and refreshment in every chilled sip.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare this slushie, you’ll need a blender powerful enough to crush ice smoothly. A jigger helps measure the sake and lime juice, while a citrus squeezer ensures fresh lime flavor. Serve in a chilled stemless wine glass, rocks glass, or even a hurricane glass for tropical flair. A spoon or thick straw is helpful for serving the slushie texture. For garnish, a mint sprig adds aroma and visual appeal, and a slice of watermelon or lime wheel can elevate presentation.
Ingredients
- 2 oz sake
- 3 oz watermelon purée
- ½ oz lime juice
- ½ oz simple syrup (optional, to taste)
- Garnish: fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- In a blender, combine watermelon purée, sake, lime juice, simple syrup (if using), and ice. Blend until smooth and slushy.
- Pour the mixture into a chilled glass.
- Top with fresh mint leaves for a cooling aromatic touch.
Pro Tips
- Use seedless watermelon and strain the purée for a smoother texture.
- If your watermelon is very sweet, skip the simple syrup entirely.
- Chill all ingredients ahead of time to reduce dilution.
- For a more intense flavor, freeze watermelon chunks beforehand and blend directly for a thicker, colder drink.
- Try nigori sake for a creamier texture, or junmai sake for a drier, more balanced finish.
- Garnish with fresh mint, basil, or even cucumber ribbon for added herbal complexity.
When to Serve
Serve the Watermelon Sake Slushie during summer parties, picnics, pool days, brunch, or any outdoor event that calls for light, fun refreshments. It’s perfect for daytime entertaining, spa-themed gatherings, or as a low-proof cocktail option for relaxed sipping. Its vibrant color and icy presentation make it a standout at any warm-weather occasion—from beach hangouts to rooftop happy hours.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Choose a light, clean sake like Gekkeikan, Tozai Snow Maiden, or Sho Chiku Bai depending on your preference for dry or slightly sweet.
- For the watermelon, use fresh, ripe fruit or cold-pressed juice with no additives.
- If using simple syrup, make your own (1:1 sugar to water), and opt for organic limes for best juice quality.
- Garnish with fresh spearmint for a refreshing, aromatic finish.
Similar Cocktails
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz sake
- 3 oz watermelon purée
- ½ oz lime juice
- ½ oz simple syrup optional, to taste
- Garnish: fresh mint leaves
Instructions
- In a blender, combine watermelon purée, sake, lime juice, simple syrup (if using), and ice. Blend until smooth and slushy.
- Pour the mixture into a chilled glass.
- Top with fresh mint leaves for a cooling aromatic touch.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use cold watermelon purée to help the slushie blend faster and stay icy longer.
- For a thicker texture, use frozen watermelon purée instead of ice cubes.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the natural watermelon flavor.
