Alright, tequila lovers, it’s time to shake things up with a spicy element in the classic Paloma. Meet the Spicy Strawberry Paloma! It’s got everything you want in a refreshing cocktail—sweet, spicy, bitter, and super refreshing. The secret weapon here? Berry & Brine’s Strawberry Hot Jam. This jam isn’t your average sweet strawberry spread; it’s got a fiery kick that pairs beautifully with fresh grapefruit juice and smooth tequila. The combination hits every flavor note: a little sweetness, a touch of heat, and that bright, bitter citrus from the grapefruit. Perfect for when you want something fun, flavorful, and a little unexpected in your cocktail rotation. Plus, the salt rim adds that classic savory finish, balancing all the bold flavors. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer for your next happy hour or weekend gathering. Cheers to spicy cocktails!
Table of content
What is in a Spicy Strawberry Paloma?
Fresh Grapefruit Juice
Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice brings that signature bitter and tangy flavor that makes a Paloma pop. Go for pink grapefruit if you want a touch more sweetness, or stick with white for a more bitter edge. Fresh juice is key here—store-bought just doesn’t have the same zing.
Fresh Lime Juice
A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens everything up, adding that sharp citrus kick. Fresh is always best in cocktails like this one—it cuts through the sweetness of the jam and balances out the bitterness of the grapefruit juice. It also adds a refreshing tartness that pairs perfectly with tequila.
Berry & Brine Strawberry Hot Jam
This is where the magic happens! Berry & Brine’s Strawberry Hot Jam brings a sweet and spicy twist that makes this Paloma stand out. The jam gives you the natural sweetness of strawberries with a fiery kick, adding depth to the cocktail. A generous spoonful is all you need to take your Paloma to the next level.
Silver Tequila
Silver (or blanco) tequila is ideal for this drink because it’s smooth and clean, letting the other flavors shine. I recommend using a good-quality silver tequila that’s not too harsh, as it pairs nicely with the fresh grapefruit and spicy strawberry jam. It gives the drink a nice bite without being overpowering.
Salt for Rimming
A salted rim is a must for any Paloma. The salt enhances the citrus flavors and balances the sweetness and heat from the jam. Coarse sea salt or kosher salt works best—you want those big, crunchy grains that give each sip a little extra kick.
Tools you will need to make a Spicy Strawberry Paloma
- Cocktail shaker
- Measuring jigger or shot glass
- Muddler or spoon for mixing
- Knife and cutting board for juicing
- Glass for serving
- Small plate for rimming salt
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[RECIPE] Spicy Strawberry Paloma
The Spicy Strawberry Paloma is a bold cocktail that combines tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, and Berry & Brine’s Strawberry Hot Jam. Sweet, spicy, and super refreshing—perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- .5 oz fresh lime juice
- 1.5 tbsp strawberry hot jam
- 2 oz silver tequila
- Salt for rimming
Directions
Run a lime wedge around half the rim of your glass and dip it in salt to coat. Set aside.
In a cocktail shaker, combine 1.5 oz of fresh grapefruit juice, 0.5 oz of fresh lime juice, 1.5 tbsp of Berry & Brine Strawberry Hot Jam, and 2 oz of silver tequila.
Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until the jam is fully mixed and the cocktail is chilled.
Strain the mixture into your salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a slice of lime or grapefruit if you like. Sip and enjoy!
To close, the Spicy Strawberry Paloma is the perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and refreshing. The Strawberry Hot Jam adds a unique kick, while the fresh grapefruit and lime juices keep it bright and zesty. It’s a fun variation of the classic Paloma that’s perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon or serving at your next gathering. Whether you’re a tequila fan or just love bold, flavorful drinks, this one is a must-try. Give it a shake, and let me know what you think—cheers!
Products used in a Spicy Strawberry Paloma:
How can I turn this into a mocktail?
Turning this Spicy Strawberry Paloma into a mocktail is super easy! Just skip the tequila and replace it with soda water or a flavored sparkling water like grapefruit or lime. You’ll still get that sweet and spicy kick from the Berry & Brine Strawberry Hot Jam and the refreshing tartness from the fresh grapefruit and lime juices. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors without the alcohol, and you can adjust the amount of jam or citrus to suit your taste. Add some extra ice, and you’ve got a refreshing, non-alcoholic treat!
Can I use Mezcal instead of tequila?
Absolutely! If you’re a fan of mezcal’s smoky flavor, it would be an amazing swap for tequila in this drink. Mezcal will add a rich, smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the sweet heat of the Strawberry Hot Jam and the tart grapefruit juice. Just keep in mind, mezcal has a bolder, earthier flavor than tequila, so the drink will have a more robust profile. It’s a great option if you want to give your Paloma a little extra complexity and a unique twist!
Can this be made into a large batch for easy entertaining?
Definitely! To make a large batch of Spicy Strawberry Palomas, just multiply the ingredients based on how many servings you need. Mix the grapefruit juice, lime juice, tequila, and Berry & Brine Strawberry Hot Jam in a large pitcher, then refrigerate until you’re ready to serve. When it’s time to serve, just pour over ice and top with soda water for a fizzy finish. Don’t forget to rim your glasses with salt for that classic Paloma touch. It’s an easy way to keep the drinks flowing and impress your guests without having to mix each one individually!
