Spicy Christmas Paloma
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Spicy Christmas Paloma
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.7 / 5
A zesty and refreshing cocktail with a festive twist, featuring tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, and a spicy chili-salt rim for a bold holiday flavor.
Check out all our FAQ's on this cocktail
Base ingredient
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Tequila
Calories
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180 calories
Garnish
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Fresh grapefruit slice
Alcohol content
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9% | 0.99 units *
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Spicy Christmas Paloma is a vibrant fusion of tangy grapefruit and smooth tequila, amplified by the zing of lime and a playful kick from the chili-salt rim, making it a festive delight for your taste buds. The tonic water adds a bubbly lightness that balances the zesty citrus and sweetness, creating a refreshingly complex twist on the classic Paloma perfect for any holiday gathering.

Method
How to make a Spicy Christmas Paloma

Serves 4 · Takes 5 minutes
Place the chili salt on a saucer
Rub the rim of your glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into the chili salt until evenly coated (optional to coat only part of the rim)
Fill the glass with ice, then add the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup
Top with tonic water, stir gently, and garnish with a fresh grapefruit or lime slice
Serve and enjoy!

Power tips
Elevate the Spicy Christmas Paloma with these master mixologist tips

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Infuse the tequila with jalapeño slices for at least 30 minutes before preparing the cocktail to impart an extra spicy kick to your Spicy Christmas Paloma.
Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice instead of bottled juice for a more vibrant and authentic citrus flavor that enhances the cocktail’s freshness.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Rim  ·  Stir  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Spicy Christmas Paloma?

Yes, you can substitute ingredients in the Spicy Christmas Paloma to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you prefer a less potent drink, you might replace tequila with a non-alcoholic spirit such as a zero-proof tequila alternative, allowing you to enjoy the cocktail's flavors without the alcohol. For a sweeter taste, you might choose to use agave nectar or honey instead of sugar syrup. If fresh grapefruit juice is unavailable, you could use a high-quality grapefruit soda as an alternative, though this will alter the balance of flavors slightly. Ensure that the replacement matches your desired taste and strength to maintain the refreshing and spicy balance of this festive cocktail.

Occasion suitability icon

Is the Spicy Christmas Paloma suitable for holiday gatherings?

Absolutely, the Spicy Christmas Paloma is an excellent choice for holiday gatherings. Its zesty and vibrant flavor profile makes it a delightful cocktail to serve during festive occasions, especially during receptions, holiday parties, or family gatherings. The combination of tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, and the distinctive chili-salt rim offers a festive twist that's both refreshing and invigorating, capturing the essence of holiday celebrations. This cocktail stands out due to its unique presentation and lively flavors, making it a talk-worthy addition to any holiday event.

Preparation techniques icon

What is the best way to prepare the Spicy Christmas Paloma?

The best way to prepare a Spicy Christmas Paloma involves a few key steps to ensure the drink is vibrant and well-balanced. Begin by preparing the chili-salt rim. Mix chili powder and salt on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the edge of a lowball glass, then dip it into the chili-salt mixture to create the spicy rim. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and sugar syrup. Shake vigorously to combine and chill the ingredients. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice. Finally, top with tonic water for a sparkling finish. Garnishing with a grapefruit wedge or a slice of fresh chili can enhance its visual appeal and aroma, adding to the overall experience.

Food pairings icon

What food pairs well with the Spicy Christmas Paloma?

The Spicy Christmas Paloma pairs excellently with a variety of dishes, especially those with bold and complementary flavors. Consider serving this cocktail with tapas such as chili-lime shrimp, grilled fish tacos, or spicy chorizo. The acidity of the grapefruit juice and the kick of tequila balance perfectly with spicy and savory foods, creating a harmonious dining experience. The refreshing nature of the Paloma also complements zesty dishes like citrus-marinated meats or salads with avocado and mango. For a more traditional holiday pairing, offer it alongside roasted turkey or glazed ham, where the cocktail's citrusy note helps cleanse the palate and enhance the flavors of the meal.

Dietary considerations icon

Are there any dietary considerations for those enjoying a Spicy Christmas Paloma?

When enjoying a Spicy Christmas Paloma, it's important to consider both the alcoholic content and the ingredients, especially if there are dietary restrictions to keep in mind. The drink itself contains alcohol, so it should be consumed responsibly. For those monitoring sugar intake, be mindful of the sugar syrup used in the cocktail. To accommodate a lower sugar diet, you might reduce the sugar syrup or replace it with a sugar substitute. Additionally, the use of fresh ingredients makes it suitable for those looking for gluten-free options, as there are no grains involved in the preparation. Always verify individual ingredient labels for allergens or dietary restrictions to ensure suitability for all guests.

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