Shiso is a staple in Japanese cuisine. With hints of mint, basil, clove, and even a touch of citrus, shiso adds a complex herbal twist to cocktails without being overpowering.
It’s perfect in light, fresh drinks and makes an eye-catching garnish too.
However, like cilantro, this is one of those herbs that you either love or hate in cocktails. I have a friend who won’t touch it, while I love it.
Flavor Profile
Herbaceous, slightly minty, with hints of basil, citrus, clove, and even cinnamon. Some describe it as “mint meets basil with a little something extra.”
Types of Shiso to Use in Cocktails
There are two main varieties of shiso, both of which are edible and bring unique qualities to your drink:
- Green Shiso (Ao Shiso)
Most common in cocktails. Bright, grassy, and more citrus-forward. Adds freshness and complexity without overwhelming other flavors. - Red Shiso (Aka Shiso)
More bitter and astringent, with a bolder flavor. Often used to color syrups and infusions with a vibrant pink or red hue. Best in small doses or for visual impact.
Tip: Shiso can often be found in Asian markets. It’s also easy to grow at home in warm weather! I just bought these seeds so I can grow my own at home.
Best Ways to Use Shiso in Cocktails
- Muddling: Gently muddle with citrus or fruit. Works well in mojito-style drinks or citrus-forward cocktails.
- Syrup: Steep green or red shiso leaves in a simple syrup for a bold, herbaceous sweetener.
- Infused Spirits: Shiso-infused vodka, gin, or sake creates a unique and fragrant base.
- Garnish: A large shiso leaf looks stunning on top of cocktails, especially in coupe or rocks glasses.
Perfect Spirit Pairings
- Sake – Naturally complements shiso’s Japanese roots
- Gin – Botanicals pair well with shiso’s complex herbal notes
- Vodka – Clean base lets shiso take the spotlight
- Tequila (Blanco) – Shiso’s citrusy-mint qualities work well with lime and agave
- White Rum – Use in place of mint for a shiso mojito
Flavor Pairings
- Lime or yuzu
- Cucumber
- Ginger
- Watermelon
- Green apple
- Lychee
- White peach
- Lemon grass
- Matcha or green tea
Shiso Cocktail Ideas
- Shiso Mojito – White rum, lime, sugar, muddled shiso, soda water
- Shiso Cucumber Collins – Vodka or gin, muddled cucumber and shiso, lemon, soda
- Yuzu Shiso Sour – Sake, yuzu juice, shiso syrup, egg white (optional)
- Lychee Shiso Martini – Vodka, lychee juice, lime, muddled shiso
- Shiso Highball – Japanese whisky, soda, shiso garnish
Shiso Tips & Warnings
- Use fresh leaves. Shiso wilts quickly—store in water like basil or wrap in a damp towel in the fridge.
- Don’t over-muddle. Shiso is tender—too much bruising can turn it bitter.
- Red shiso is stronger. Great for syrup infusions, but more intense in flavor—taste-test before adding to cocktails.
- Not always labeled “shiso.” It may also be called “perilla” or “perilla leaf” in markets.
Shiso is a refreshing, flavorful way to shake up your herb game.
Whether you’re creating a Japanese-inspired cocktail or adding a bold twist to a classic, this leaf offers something uniquely vibrant and totally unforgettable.
