Spicy Paloma Cocktail

Satisfy your sweet and spicy craving with this Spicy Paloma Cocktail. A version of the classic Paloma, this drink adds a little jalapeño heat!

This past weekend I enjoyed a long overdue girls weekend with some of my best college friends. We laughed and talked non-stop, catching up on kids, activities and work. But mostly, we reminisced about our college years, the fun we had and the lasting memories and friends we made. We took a walk around the campus, taking in all the places we traveled so long ago while we gawked at all the new amenities, like kids in a candy store. We laughed at the funny things, that college kids do and the time just seemed to melt away. It was a fantastic weekend that started off with going to Latina Cantina, in Fairfield, CT where I had tried this Spicy Paloma Cocktail.

I have been wanting to make a spicy-sweet cocktail for a while now and after this weekend I was inspired to make one. I have five jalapeños plants and about a million jalapeños right now, so what better way to use them up. Give it a try and remember all the good times you’ve had!

What is a Paloma?

The margarita may be considered Mexico’s most popular cocktail, however, the most beloved is the paloma. The refreshing grapefruit and tequila drink is in fact Mexico’s favorite drink. So much so, that notable drinks writer David Wondrich regards it as the National Drink of Mexico.

Throughout the years, the citrusy refreshment has been showing up on cocktail lists fetching a hefty price. However, the original is not as fancy or as expensive to make as one may think. There are two common elements essential in any paloma: tequila and grapefruit, making it simple, enjoyable and most commonly drunk at home.

What does a paloma taste like?

The combination of tequila and grapefruit is a match made in heaven. A paloma drink has a clean, crisp flavor. It’s tart and sour with a lime accent and fizz from the soda. The spicy paloma has these great flavors while adding a hint of spice from the jalapeños! Spicy, sweet and refreshing!

Grapefruit soda and substitutes

Traditionally, the brand Jarritos Toronja, a popular grapefruit soda is used since it is widely prevalent in Mexico. However, if you can’t find it then grapefruit juice and some club soda will do.

What is the best tequila to use in a Paloma?

The best tequila to use in a Paloma is silver tequila (often referred to as blanco tequila). It is aged just a few weeks so it’s the purest form of tequila you can buy. Because of its clear color, it’s great for mixed drinks, most commonly margaritas.

Salt the rim!

Don’t forget to salt the rim! A little salt balances out the tart flavor of the grapefruit. Salty, sweet and tart!

Spicy Paloma Cocktail

A little spice goes a long way in this spicy paloma cocktail. Add some jalapeños to this cocktail and take it up a notch! Place a few slices on the bottom of a cocktail shaker (the more slices the spicer!), add a little lime juice and use a muddler to smash. This helps to release the spicy juices. In addition, you can add some simple syrup (jalapeño simple syrup post coming next week) if you like it a little sweeter. Once smashed, add tequila, simple syrup, grapefruit juice, soda and stir. Pour into a glass filled with ice, garnish and enjoy!

Spicy Paloma Cocktail-Ingredients for two drinks

• 4 oz silver tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2-3 slices jalapeños
• 2 oz simple syrup (jalapeño simple syrup)
• 6 oz grapefruit juice
• splash grapefruit soda (or regular club soda)
• 2 lime slices (for garnish)
• 4 slices jalapeños (for garnish)

Instructions

• Take a lime wedge and slide it around the rim of the glass. Dip the glass in salt to rim. Fill each glass with ice. 
• In a cocktail shaker, add lime juice and 2-3 jalapeños slices. Muddle the jalapeños slices in the lime juice.
• Add tequila, (jalapeño) simple syrup, grapefruit juice, and grapefruit soda. Stir well. 
• Strain into prepared glasses.
• Add a lime slice and 2 jalapeños slices to each glass for garnish.
• Cheers!

For great mains to go with this drink try:

Barbacoa Style Short Rib Tacos

Crockpot Chicken Tacos

Tequila Lime Shrimp

Tequila Lime Beef Fajitas

Simple Grilled Shrimp Tacos

For other great Mexican cocktails try:

Fresh Strawberry Margarita

Frozen Watermelon Margarita

Simple Lemon Margarita

Tequila Breeze Margarita (grapefruit)