The Spicy Vodka Paloma brings a bold twist to the classic Mexican cocktail. This drink adds vodka and a spicy kick to the mix of tequila, grapefruit, and lime juice. The heat from fresh jalapeños creates an exciting balance with the citrus flavors.
The recipe takes just 5 minutes to make and needs simple ingredients: vodka, tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, jalapeño slices, and club soda. The mix of two spirits makes this cocktail stronger than a regular Paloma while keeping its refreshing taste.
The spicy element can be adjusted by using more or fewer jalapeño slices. The drink works great for summer parties or any time you want
Spicy Vodka Paloma Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Muddler
- Highball glass
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Ice
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 2-3 thin jalapeño slices
- Club soda
- Tajín or chili-lime salt for rim
- Ice cubes
- Grapefruit wedge and jalapeño slice for garnish
Instructions
- Rim a highball glass with lime juice and Tajín or chili-lime salt.
- Add jalapeño slices to a shaker and muddle gently to release oils.
- Pour vodka, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup into the shaker.
- Fill shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
- Fill the rimmed glass with fresh ice.
- Double strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and jalapeño slice.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Spicy Vodka Paloma brings a perfect mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. The chili-infused vodka adds a warm heat that builds with each sip.
Fresh grapefruit juice gives a bright citrus punch that balances the sweetness of agave nectar. The lime adds extra tartness while club soda creates a light, refreshing fizz.
Key Flavor Notes:
- Heat Level: Medium spice that grows gradually
- Sweetness: Light to moderate
- Acidity: Bright and zesty
- Body: Light and effervescent
Salt on the rim enhances the citrus flavors and complements the spice. The drink starts crisp and citrusy, followed by warming heat and a clean finish.
The cocktail’s pale pink color and bubbles make it visually appealing. Ice keeps it cold and slightly dilutes the strength as you drink.
Substitute
The classic vodka in this cocktail recipe can be swapped with several alternatives. Tequila makes an excellent choice for a Mexican-inspired twist. Gin adds botanical notes that pair well with grapefruit.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with grapefruit-flavored sparkling water. This creates a refreshing mocktail that keeps the drink’s citrus profile.
The spicy element can be adjusted too. Instead of jalapeños, try:
- Serrano peppers (spicier)
- Thai chilies (very spicy)
- Red pepper flakes (mild)
- Chili powder (mild)
Pink grapefruit juice works best, but regular grapefruit juice is fine. Fresh-squeezed juice gives the best taste, though store-bought 100% juice works too.
Replace Tajin rim seasoning with:
- Chili-lime salt
- Sea salt
- Ground chili powder
- Sugar and salt mix
Club soda substitutes include:
- Sparkling water
- Grapefruit soda
- Lime seltzer
- Tonic water
