Prairie Fire Cocktail Recipe

The Prairie Fire cocktail is a spicy shot that originated in the American Midwest. It is popular among college students and those who enjoy a bit of heat in their drinks. The Prairie Fire is typically served as a shot, but can also be enjoyed as a sipping drink.

• The name 'Prairie Fire' comes from the burning of the tallgrass prairies, a common practice in the Midwest to promote new growth.
• The drink is known for its fiery kick, which comes from the combination of tequila and hot sauce.
• It is often enjoyed as a 'dare' or challenge among friends, due to its intense heat.

The Prairie Fire cocktail has a bold, spicy flavor with a strong kick from the tequila. The hot sauce adds a fiery heat, while the tequila provides a smooth, slightly sweet base. The overall taste is intense, warming, and not for the faint of heart.

• The Prairie Fire is sometimes referred to as a 'cowboy shot', due to its popularity in rural areas and its association with the rugged, adventurous spirit of the American West.
• Some variations of the Prairie Fire include adding a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lime to balance the heat and add complexity to the flavor.
• The Prairie Fire is often used as a 'test of courage' in drinking games, with participants challenged to down the shot without flinching.

1. Prepare the shot glass: Choose a standard shot glass to serve the Prairie Fire.
2. Add tequila: Pour 1oz of tequila into the shot glass.
3. Add hot sauce: Carefully pour 0.5oz of hot sauce on top of the tequila, allowing it to float and create a layer.
4. Serve: The Prairie Fire is ready to be enjoyed as a shot or sipped slowly.

• Chill the Tequila: For a smoother shot, chill the tequila before mixing.
• Choose Your Hot Sauce Wisely: The type of hot sauce used can greatly affect the flavor. Experiment with different brands to find your preferred taste.
• Add a Lime Wedge: A lime wedge on the side can help balance the heat and add a refreshing twist.

Appetizers

• Chips and Dip: A salty and crunchy snack like tortilla chips with a creamy guacamole or salsa can balance out the heat.
• Grilled Shrimp: The smokiness of grilled shrimp pairs nicely with the spicy kick of the Prairie Fire shot.
• Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, especially ones with a creamier texture like brie or goat cheese, can help soothe the palate.

Drinks

• Beer: A light lager or pilsner can help extinguish the fire from the shot.
• Margarita: If you're in a tequila mood, a chilled margarita can complement the Prairie Fire nicely.
• Water or Milk: When the heat becomes too much, these are essential for quick relief.

• Tequila: If you're not a fan of tequila, you can substitute it with vodka or white rum.
• Hot Sauce: If you find the heat too intense, consider using a milder hot sauce or even a spicy tomato juice.

Smoky Prairie Fire

• Ingredients: 1oz Mezcal, 0.5oz Chipotle Hot Sauce
• Recipe: Pour Mezcal into a shot glass, layer with chipotle hot sauce. Same procedure, deeper smokiness.
• Flavor: Expect a smoked chilli chocolate vibe, making your taste buds tango with the mesquite spirit of Mexico.

Prairie Burn

• Ingredients: 1oz Tequila, 0.5oz Sriracha Sauce
• Recipe: Combine tequila and Sriracha in a shot glass. Stir with a cocktail stick to mix the heat evenly.
• Flavor: This creates a garlicky inferno that engulfs the palate but leaves a sweet aftertaste of victory.

Verde Blaze

• Ingredients: 1oz Tequila, 0.5oz Green Hot Sauce
• Recipe: Tequila first, then the green hot sauce. It's a Prairie Fire wearing a green hat.
• Flavor: A herbaceous heat wave crashes over your taste sensors, with a fresh zest that shouts 'fiesta'.