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Monday, September 29, 2008
Looking for a vodka substitute? Look no further.
Shochu has hit it big in big cities in the States where health conscious lounge lizards are looking for fewer calories and a little less alcohol. The clear distilled Japanese spirit is similar to vodka and can easily substitute for it.
According to a post on Zagat.com, “In Japan, shochu sales are booming, surpassing even that of sake. One reason for its popularity, some surmise, has to do with health. Shochu contains about one-third the calories of other liquors and less alcohol (usually 50 proof); because of that, and the purity of its ingredients, some imbibers claim it causes less of a hangover.”
Shochu, 3313 North Clark Street, between School Street and Buckingham Place (773-348-3313).
Cocktail Times writes, “Health conscious consumers prefer shochu than other types of beverage alcohol because of its low calories. (about 15 - 20 cal. per ounce) … There are two main types of shochus: Otsurui and Korui. Korui shochu is distilled several times and usually consumed in cocktails. Otsurui is distilled only once, leaving a distinctive smell of the source ingredient. This type of shochu is often enjoyed on the rocks and is becoming increasingly popular in Japan.”
It’s in big cities, but it’s word is spreading. This article out of Arizona shows the kind of innovative bartending that is happening thanks to the Shochu popularity.
I’ve not seen Shochu listed on the ingredients list of any cocktail lists of the restaurants around here. I have had it at a few Japanese restaurants and it is smooth and refreshing and worth trying if you get the opportunity.
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