Mexican Candy Shot Recipe

The Mexican Candy Shot is a popular cocktail that originated in Mexico and has gained popularity in bars and clubs around the world. This sweet and spicy shot is perfect for those who enjoy a little kick in their drinks. The combination of tequila, watermelon liqueur, and hot sauce creates a unique flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more.

• The Mexican Candy Shot is believed to have been created in the late 20th century in Mexico
• It quickly gained popularity in the United States, especially in the Southwest
• The shot is often enjoyed by those who like a little spice in their drinks, as well as fans of tequila and watermelon flavors

The Mexican Candy Shot has a sweet and fruity taste from the watermelon liqueur, balanced with the bold and slightly bitter flavor of tequila. The hot sauce adds a spicy kick that lingers on the palate, making this shot a unique and exciting experience.

• The Mexican Candy Shot is often served with a salted rim, which enhances the sweet and spicy flavors of the drink
• The shot is sometimes garnished with a small piece of watermelon or a lime wedge
• The name 'Mexican Candy' comes from the sweet and spicy flavor profile, reminiscent of popular Mexican candies

1. Prepare the shot glass by wetting the rim with a lime wedge and dipping it in salt
2. In a mixing glass, combine 1oz of tequila and 1oz of watermelon liqueur
3. Add 3-4 drops of hot sauce to the mixture
4. Stir the ingredients together gently
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared shot glass
6. Garnish with a lime wedge or small piece of watermelon, if desired

• Use a high-quality tequila for a smoother taste
• Adjust the amount of hot sauce to your personal spice preference
• Experiment with different types of hot sauce to find your favorite flavor combination

Food Pairings

• Spicy Mexican Dishes: The kick from the hot sauce complements the heat in foods like tacos, enchiladas, or tamales.
• Seafood: Especially grilled shrimp or ceviche, which will harmonize with the shot's lime and salty aspects.
• Fresh Fruits: Like pineapple or mango, to contrast the spiciness and refresh the palate.

Drink Pairings

• Cold Mexican Beer: A lager can cool down the spice while not overpowering the flavors of the shot.
• Margarita: To stay in the realm of tequila-based drinks, a margarita can be a nice follow-up.
• Chilled Sangrita: A traditional chaser for tequila that pairs well with the shot's spicy and sweet notes.

• If you don't have watermelon liqueur, you can substitute it with another fruity liqueur, such as strawberry or raspberry
• For a milder spice, you can use a less spicy hot sauce or reduce the number of drops

Spicy Mango Candy Shot

• Replace watermelon liqueur with mango liqueur for a tropical twist.
• Use chamoy sauce instead of traditional hot sauce for added depth.
• Rim the glass with Tajín (chili lime salt) to enhance the fruitiness.
• The shot will be fruitier with a tangier spice, perfect for those who love a sweet-heat combo.

Cucumber Chili Shot

• Swap out watermelon liqueur for cucumber-flavored spirits to create a refreshing edge.
• Include a slice of jalapeño in the mixture to steep before straining for a green, herbaceous kick.
• Maintain the salt rim but consider a touch of smoky salt for added complexity.
• The result will be a crisper, more vegetal shot with a clean, spicy finish – a garden party in a glass.

Berry Spicy Shot

• Use a raspberry or strawberry liqueur instead of watermelon for a berry good time.
• Add a splash of lime juice to up the citrus ante in the flavor profile.
• Rim the glass with a mixture of sugar and chili powder, for that sweet sting.
• This shot becomes a sweet and tart delight with a spicy berry kiss, cheekily challenging the traditional candy notion.