Rodeo Cocktail Recipe

The Rodeo cocktail is a modern creation inspired by the wild west and the adventurous spirit of cowboys. It is a popular choice among those who enjoy bold flavors and a touch of heat.

• The Rodeo was first created in a trendy bar in Austin, Texas.
• It quickly gained popularity among locals and tourists alike.
• The cocktail is often enjoyed at rodeo events and western-themed parties.

The Rodeo cocktail is a complex and exciting mix of flavors. It is spicy, smoky, and slightly sweet with a hint of citrus. The heat from the jalapeño is balanced by the sweetness of the agave syrup, while the smokiness of the mezcal adds depth and intrigue.

• The Rodeo cocktail is often served in a rocks glass with a salted rim, reminiscent of a margarita.
• The use of mezcal in the cocktail adds a smoky flavor that sets it apart from other spicy cocktails.
• The jalapeño garnish not only adds visual appeal but also allows drinkers to control the level of heat in their cocktail.

1. Prepare the glass:
   • Wet the rim of a rocks glass with a lime wedge.
   • Dip the rim in smoked salt to create a salted rim.
2. Make the cocktail:
   • In a shaker, muddle the jalapeño with the agave syrup.
   • Add the mezcal, lime juice, and ice.
   • Shake well until chilled.
3. Strain the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over fresh ice.
4. Garnish with a jalapeño slice.

• Use fresh ingredients. Fresh lime juice and fresh jalapeño will make a big difference in the taste.
• Adjust the heat. The amount of jalapeño can be adjusted according to personal preference.
• Chill the glass. A chilled glass will keep the cocktail colder for longer.

Food Pairings

• Grilled Seafood: The smoky notes of mezcal and the spiciness of jalapeño beautifully complement the charred flavors in grilled fish or shrimp.
• Tacos: A traditional taco with carnitas or fish is a perfect match for this cocktail, as the citrus from the lime juice will cut through the fat.
• Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole with crispy tortilla chips pairs well with the Rodeo cocktail, as the agave syrup’s sweetness balances the spice and acidity.

Drink Pairings

• Pale Ale: A crisp and hoppy pale ale can be a refreshing follow-up to the Rodeo's complexity.
• Chilled Water: To cleanse the palate between sips of this bold cocktail, water is always a wise choice.

• Mezcal: Can be substituted with tequila for a less smoky flavor.
• Agave Syrup: Honey or simple syrup can be used as a substitute.
• Smoked Salt: Regular salt or Himalayan pink salt can be used for rimming.

Smoky Pineapple Rodeo

• Ingredients: Replace lime juice with pineapple juice; add a splash of liquid smoke.
• Recipe: Shake the smoked pineapple juice with mezcal, agave, and one deseeded jalapeño. Serve with a pineapple wedge rimmed with smoked salt.
• Taste: A tropical twist with a smoky caress. Think of a beach bonfire in your mouth.

Spicy Rodeo Margarita

• Ingredients: Add triple sec and replace the agave syrup with simple syrup.
• Recipe: Combine mezcal, lime juice, simple syrup, triple sec, and jalapeño in a shaker. Serve in a salt-rimmed glass with a lime wheel.
• Taste: A familiar margarita with a feisty, smoky kick – it'll lasso your taste buds!

Berry Bold Rodeo

• Ingredients: Add muddled raspberries and a splash of cranberry juice.
• Recipe: Mix raspberries, cranberry juice, mezcal, lime juice, agave, and jalapeño. Serve in a glass rimmed with a mixture of smoked salt and sugar.
• Taste: A tart and sweet rodeo with a smoking berry hat. It's like riding a wild berry through a forest fire – thrilling!