Pepino's Revenge Cocktail Recipe

Pepino's Revenge Nutrition Facts

Calories:180

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:7g

Alcohol %:25

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Pepino's Revenge is a refreshing cocktail that was first created in the 1990s at the famous Skybar in Los Angeles. It was designed for those who enjoy a refreshing, cucumber-flavored cocktail with a hint of spice. The drink quickly gained popularity and is now enjoyed by many around the world.

  • The name 'Pepino's Revenge' translates to 'Cucumber's Revenge' in Spanish, reflecting its key ingredient.
  • The cocktail is especially popular during the summer months due to its refreshing qualities.

How Pepino's Revenge Tastes?

The Pepino's Revenge is a refreshing, light, and crisp cocktail. It has a dominant cucumber taste, with a hint of lime and a subtle kick from the jalapeno. The tequila adds a depth of flavor, making it a well-rounded and balanced drink.

Interesting facts about Pepino's Revenge

  • Despite its name, the Pepino's Revenge is not a 'revenge' drink but rather a refreshing cocktail.
  • The cucumber used in the cocktail not only adds flavor but also helps to cool down the heat from the jalapeno.
  • The cocktail is often served in a tall glass to showcase its beautiful green color.

Ingredients

Tequila: 2 oz

Tequila is the soul of the party, it gives this cocktail its spirit – quite literally. It provides warmth, character, and that distinct flavor that balances out the freshness of the other ingredients. Use too little, and the drink lacks backbone; too much, and it overpowers the delicate flavors. Alternatives: Try mezcal for a smokier twist.

Emma Rose

Cucumber: 1/2

The cucumber is the 'cool cat' of ingredients, providing a refreshing and crisp taste that soothes the palate. Not enough cucumber makes for a less refreshing cocktail, while too much could lead to a salad-tasting drink. Alternatives: Try melon for a sweeter, but similarly refreshing, quality.

Mary Mitkina

Lime Juice: 1 oz

Lime juice is the zesty friend who livens up the party, bringing all the ingredients together with its citrusy zing. Its acid cuts through the sweetness and brings balance. Miss it, and the cocktail becomes flat. Alternatives: Lemon juice can be used but it will change the profile slightly, offering a different kind of tartness.

Alex Green

Agave Nectar: 1/2 oz

Agave nectar whispers sweet nothings to balance the acidity and the heat. Without it, the cocktail might be too sharp. A little goes a long way – too much and you'll be sipping a syrupy mess. Alternatives: Honey or simple syrup could substitute, changing the sweetness profile slightly.

Emma Rose

Jalapeno: 1 slice

The jalapeno is the daring one, adding a spicy kick that makes 'Pepino's Revenge' stand out. Overdo it, and your mouth is on fire; use too little, and the cocktail lacks pizzazz. Alternatives: Serrano peppers for more heat, bell peppers for less.

Mary Mitkina

Salt: For rim

Salt on the rim is like a fairy dust sprinkle, enhancing flavors and adding a touch of elegance. Miss it, and the drink loses its finishing touch. Alternatives: Chili powder mixed with salt for an extra kick.

Alex Green

Garnish: Cucumber slice

A garnish cucumber slice is the final flourish, a visual and flavorful reminder of the drink’s fresh character. It's also a nifty snack. Without it, your drink is naked. Alternatives: Lime wheel or a sprig of mint for a color contrast and a hint of extra flavor.

Emma Rose

Recipe. How to make Pepino's Revenge Drink

  1. Muddle the cucumber and jalapeno in a shaker.
  2. Add the tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.
  4. Rim the glass with salt.
  5. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
  6. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

Pro Tips

  • Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor.
  • For a spicier cocktail, leave the seeds in the jalapeno.
  • Chill the glass beforehand for an extra refreshing drink.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers to Consider

  • Grilled Shrimp: The smoky flavor of grilled shrimp pairs well with the spicy kick from the jalapeno and the freshness of the cucumber.
  • Guacamole & Chips: The creamy texture and rich taste of guacamole balance the crispness of the 'Pepino's Revenge.'

Main Courses

  • Fish Tacos: A light and zesty dish like fish tacos complements the bright flavors of the cocktail.
  • Chicken Fajitas: The savory spices of chicken fajitas work perfectly with the cocktail's spice and tang.

Desserts

  • Key Lime Pie: The tartness of the pie echoes the lime juice in the drink, creating a harmonious dessert pairing.

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What you could change in Pepino's Revenge

  • Tequila can be substituted with vodka for a milder flavor.
  • Agave nectar can be replaced with simple syrup.
  • For a non-alcoholic version, replace the tequila with club soda.

Explore all drinks starting with P here

And of course - twists🍹

Smoky Revenge

Replace tequila with mezcal for a smokier version of this cocktail. The mezcal's distinct smoky flavor will add a new layer of complexity to the 'Pepino's Revenge', giving it a more robust and earthy profile.

Sweet Heat

Add a splash of mango puree and switch the agave nectar for honey. This will introduce a sweet tropical flair that tames the jalapeno's heat slightly while adding a luscious body to the drink.

Herbaceous Revenge

Muddle in some fresh cilantro with the cucumber and jalapeno. The cilantro will add a touch of herbaceous freshness, making this variant a green garden in a glass. Top with a splash of club soda for added fizz and lightness.

In case you forgot basics how to make Pepino's Revenge

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Pepino's Revenge

What type of tequila should I use for this cocktail?

You can use any type of tequila you prefer, although many cocktail lovers opt for a good quality silver or blanco tequila for its clean, agave flavor.

Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cocktail a few hours in advance without the ice. However, it's recommended to serve it immediately after adding the ice for the most refreshing experience.

Should I use fresh or pickled jalapenos?

Fresh jalapenos are recommended to give the cocktail a fresh and vibrant taste. However, if you like a stronger jalapeno flavor, you can try using pickled jalapenos.

Do I need a cocktail shaker to make this drink?

While a cocktail shaker is recommended to properly combine all the ingredients and chill the cocktail, you can also use a mason jar with a lid or even just stir the ingredients together in a glass.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the cocktail?

You can adjust the spiciness of the cocktail by adding more or less jalapeno. Remember, the seeds and ribs of the jalapeno are the spiciest parts so use less of these if you want a milder cocktail.

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