Shochu Watermelon Lemonade

Shochu is a Japanese or Korean spirit typically distilled from barley, sweet potatoes, or rice. It has a light, slightly sweet, nutty flavor. You can substitute vodka, if you like.Searching for more refreshing beverages? Find what you're looking for in our Drinks and Entertaining Guide.

• 4 cups peeled, seeded, and cubed watermelon (from about 4-1/2 lb. unpeeled watermelon), plus thin wedges for garnish
• 3/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 4 or 5 lemons), plus thin lemon slices for garnish
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup shochu, chilled; more to taste

Purée the watermelon in a blender or food processor until smooth. Strain the purée through a fine sieve—you’ll need 2 cups of watermelon juice. In a large bowl or pitcher, mix the watermelon juice, lemon juice, sugar, shochu, and 4 cups water until the sugar is dissolved. Refrigerate until well chilled, at least 2 hours and up to 6 hours.

When ready to serve, add more shochu to taste, if necessary. Serve in tall glasses filled with ice, garnished with a slice of lemon and a wedge of watermelon.