Purple Gecko Recipe

Purple Gecko Nutrition Facts

Calories:~150

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:~15g

Alcohol:~20%

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 Purple Gecko is a vibrant and playful shot that's perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and tangy kick to their drink. It's a popular choice at parties and bars where patrons are looking for something fun and memorable.

  • Origins: While the exact origins are unclear, it's a modern concoction that seems to have emerged from the trend of colorful and fruity shooters.
  • Popularity: This shot is particularly favored by those who enjoy tequila-based cocktails but are looking for a twist on the classic flavors.
  • Occasions: Best served at lively gatherings or as a celebratory shot on a night out.

How Purple Gecko Tastes?

The Purple Gecko is a delightful mix of sweet and sour with a tequila base that provides a warm, spirited kick. The blue curacao adds a citrusy depth, while the lime juice brings a zesty tang. Cranberry juice offers a fruity sweetness that balances the sour mix, creating a shot that's both refreshing and bold.

Interesting facts about Purple Gecko

  • Colorful Presentation: Its vibrant purple hue makes it a visually appealing choice for a night out.
  • Versatility: The Purple Gecko can be easily adapted with different curacao flavors to tweak the color and taste.
  • Tequila Base: Despite its fruity flavors, the shot maintains a strong tequila presence, making it a hit among tequila enthusiasts.

Ingredients

Tequila

  • Importance: The backbone of any good party shot, tequila brings the heat and earthiness that defines the Purple Gecko. Without it, you're missing the party bus!
  • Alternatives: Try mezcal for a smokier note or a silver rum for a lighter twist.

Mary Mitkina

Blue Curacao

  • Importance: Not just for color! Blue Curacao adds a touch of orange flavor that plays tropical tunes with the lime. Without it, you lose the 'blue' and some of the zing.
  • Alternatives: Try Triple Sec for a clearer shot with the same citrusy profile.

Alex Green

Lime Juice

  • Importance: The sour pucker-up buddy in the mix, lime juice cuts through the sweetness and refreshes like a light summer rain. Without it, you might as well be sipping syrup.
  • Alternatives: Lemon juice can sub in, but it's like watching a movie with the wrong soundtrack.

Emma Rose

Cranberry Juice

  • Importance: This jewel-toned juice brings a hint of tart sophistication and helps balance the sweet and sour components. Without it, the gecko loses its charm and turns into a one-dimensional creature.
  • Alternatives: Pomegranate juice could be a posh cousin that would fit the bill, adding similar color and tang.

Mary Mitkina

Sweet and Sour Mix

  • Importance: The sweet and sour mix is like the life of the party—it balances the whole gang out. Without it, things could go sour, literally.
  • Alternatives: Homemade mix with simple syrup and lemon/lime juice could add a personal touch to your gecko's tale.

Alex Green

Recipe. How to make Purple Gecko Drink

  1. Chill a shot glass in the freezer.
  2. Pour 1.5 oz of tequila into a shaker.
  3. Add 0.5 oz of blue curacao, 0.5 oz of lime juice, 1 oz of cranberry juice, and 1 oz of sweet and sour mix.
  4. Shake well with ice until chilled.
  5. Strain into the chilled shot glass.
  6. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips

  • Ice: Make sure to shake the ingredients with plenty of ice to get a well-chilled shot.
  • Layering: For a fun twist, try layering the ingredients instead of shaking them for a gradient effect.
  • Garnish: A lime wheel or a twist can add an extra zesty garnish to the shot.

Perfect Pairings

Foods

  • Spicy Tacos: The zesty flavor of the Purple Gecko complements the heat from a spicy taco.
  • Seafood Ceviche: The citrus notes in the shot will enhance the fresh tanginess of the ceviche.
  • Salted Nuts: A simple, salty snack like nuts contrasts with the sweet and sour notes in the shot.

Drinks

  • Sparkling Water: To cleanse the palate between shots.
  • Pale Ale: The bitterness of a good pale ale can balance the sweetness of the cocktail.
  • Margarita: If in a cocktail mood, pair it with a classic margarita for a double tequila treat.

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What you could change in Purple Gecko

  • Tequila: You can use a blanco or silver tequila for a cleaner taste, or a reposado for a bit more depth.
  • Blue Curacao: If you don't have blue curacao, try using triple sec with a splash of blue food coloring for the color effect.
  • Sweet and Sour Mix: In a pinch, you can make your own by mixing equal parts lemon juice and simple syrup.

Explore all drinks starting with P here

And of course - twists🍹

Green Lizard

  • Substitute the blue curacao with green melon liqueur.
  • Follow the original recipe.
  • The shot will have a melon twist, taking you on a tropical adventure with a different hue.

Spicy Salamander

  • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small slice of jalapeño.
  • Follow the original recipe, adding the spice during the shake.
  • A spicy kick will rev up the experience, igniting a fire dance on your palate.

Fizzy Iguana

  • After straining into the shot glass, top with a splash of club soda.
  • The addition of a fizzy element will turn the shot into a refreshing burst, perfect for sipping.

In case you forgot basics how to make Purple Gecko

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

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Frequently Asked Questions on Purple Gecko

How should I measure the ingredients for accuracy?

For precise measurements, use a jigger or a measuring shot glass, which typically has marks for various volumes.

Can I make a larger batch of the Purple Gecko for parties?

Yes, simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need and mix in a larger pitcher or jug.

Is it necessary to use a shaker for making cocktails?

While not mandatory, a shaker helps to properly chill and dilute the cocktail, as well as mix the ingredients thoroughly.

What can I use if I don't have a cocktail shaker?

A mason jar with a tight lid or a sports bottle can be a makeshift shaker in a pinch.

How can I achieve the best chill for my shot glasses?

Place the shot glasses in the freezer for at least an hour before serving or fill them with ice water while you prepare your shot.

What food pairs well with the Purple Gecko shot?

Light appetizers like ceviche, guacamole with chips, or shrimp cocktail complement the flavors of the Purple Gecko.

Is the Purple Gecko shot suitable for a formal event?

Its bold color and casual nature make it more suited for informal, lively gatherings rather than black-tie events.

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