[Recipe] Nihon Gimlet by Jonas Vittur of Sora (Phnom Penh)

Nihon Gimlet is a reflection of two cultures meeting in one glass. Inspired by Japanese craftsmanship and grounded in Cambodian heritage, it tells a story of place, memory, and identity.

Vibrant matcha brings the calm elegance of Japan, while fragrant kaffir lime leaf captures the unmistakable aroma of Cambodia. Built around a bright sweet-and-sour profile—a flavor that resonates deeply with Cambodian palates—the cocktail feels both familiar and unexpected.

Ingredients:

40ml Kaffir Lime Gin*

25ml Matcha Cordial*

10ml Fresh Lime Juice

White Chocolate Garnish

*Make the Kaffir Lime Gin

8g Fresh Kaffir Lime Leaves

500ml Gin

Method: Combine Kaffir lime leaves with gin in a cream syphon, charge twice at No2. Let sit for 10 minutes and release pressure rapidly. Strain through coffee filter.

*Make the Matcha Cordial

10g Matcha Green Tea

150g Hot Water (75ºC)

125g White Sugar

1.5g Ascorbic Acid

Method: Mix hot water with green tea and sugar, let cool till lukewarm and mix in ascorbic acid. Fine strain and store in fridge.

Method:

Shake all the ingredients with ice, fine strain into a rock glass over a large ice block. Garnish with white chocolate.