Mexican Cocktail Recipe

The Mexican cocktail, also known as the Paloma, is a popular tequila-based drink that originated in Mexico. It is believed to have been created in the 1950s by Don Javier Delgado Corona, the owner of La Capilla bar in Tequila, Jalisco. The Paloma quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike, becoming a staple at Mexican celebrations and gatherings.

• The name 'Paloma' means 'dove' in Spanish, symbolizing peace and tranquility.
• The cocktail is often enjoyed during the hot summer months, as it is refreshing and easy to make.
• It is a favorite among tequila enthusiasts and those who appreciate the unique flavors of Mexican cuisine.

The Mexican cocktail is a refreshing, tangy, and slightly sweet drink. The combination of tequila, grapefruit, lime, and soda creates a well-balanced and invigorating taste. The salted rim adds a savory touch that complements the citrus flavors.

• The Paloma is considered the unofficial national cocktail of Mexico, even more popular than the Margarita.
• Some variations of the Paloma use grapefruit soda, such as Jarritos or Squirt, instead of fresh grapefruit juice and soda water.
• The cocktail is often served in a highball glass or a clay cantarito, which is a traditional Mexican drinking vessel.

1. Prepare a highball glass by moistening the rim with a lime wedge and dipping it in salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
4. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass.
5. Top with soda water and gently stir.
6. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and a lime wheel.

• Use fresh citrus juice for the best flavor. Bottled juices can contain preservatives that alter the taste.
• Chill your glass before serving to keep your cocktail cold longer.
• For a sweeter cocktail, add more simple syrup.

Food Pairings

• Grilled Seafood: The citrus notes of the cocktail complement the charred flavors of grilled fish or shrimp.
• Chicken Tacos: A lighter, zesty cocktail like this pairs well with the spiciness of tacos.
• Ceviche: It's fresh and citrusy, which works wonders alongside the acidity of a good ceviche.
• Salads: A salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing would go nicely with this refreshing drink.

Drink Pairings

• Chilled Water: Helps cleanse the palate between sips of the cocktail.
• Amber Ale: A beer with a bit of sweetness could complement the tartness of the drink.

• Tequila: Can be substituted with Mezcal for a smokier flavor.
• Grapefruit juice: Can be replaced with grapefruit soda for a sweeter and fizzier cocktail.
• Simple syrup: Can be replaced with agave syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.

Spicy Paloma Twist

• Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker.
• Recipe: Follow the original recipe, but with the addition of a jalapeño slice muddled in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
• The taste will gain a spicy kick that warms the palate and brings out even more of the Mexican vibe.

Mezcal Smoky Paloma

• Replace tequila with mezcal.
• Recipe: Same as the original, but mezcal brings in a smoky profile that competes nicely with the sweet and citrusy notes.
• The overall flavor will have a robust smokiness that pairs excellently with the grapefruit and lime. It’s like a sunset bonfire on a Mexican beach.

Hibiscus Paloma

• Add hibiscus syrup instead of simple syrup.
• Recipe: Shake well 2oz of tequila, 2oz of grapefruit juice, 0.5oz of lime juice, and 0.5oz of hibiscus syrup. Strain into a glass, top with soda, and garnish.
• This will give an exotic floral note and a beautiful crimson color to your cocktail, creating a drink that’s as pretty as it is tasty.