Watermelon & Yuzu Cocktail (Virgin or with Alcohol)

Summer in LA is quite hot, and this super simple watermelon & yuzu beverage is a perfect seasonal drink to make me feel so refreshed. It's all natural (just watermelon, yuzu juice, and mint), takes no time to prepare, and always so tasty. When I serve this as an aperitif in the evening, I like to add a splash of shochu (Japanese spirit) or some Champagne.

Yield

Any amount you like

Ingredients

• Watermelon
• Fresh yuzu juice
• Mint leaves
• Your choice of alcohol such as Japanese shochu, Champagne, or vodka (Optional)

Procedure

1. Blend watermelon (frozen or fresh) in a blender to make juice (or slush).
2. Pour the juice into a glass, and add some yuzu juice.
3. Mash some mint in suribachi and surikogi (Japanese mortar and pestle), and add to the juice.
4. The drink is ready. If you like the alcoholic version, add some shochu or your choice of alcohol.

 
Mash some mint leaves for the refreshing touch.

I l love how the yuzu juice add very aromatic tartness to the drink. Add some ice cubes, if you like.

Here's a frozen "slush" version. It's very good, too.