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The "Other" Mexican Drink - The Paloma

Sat, May 25, 24  |  recipe

The "Other" Mexican Drink ✨🍹  

This refreshing cocktail made with tequila and grapefruit soda is definitely worth celebrating… and so easy to make!  The Paloma cocktail has its origins in Mexico, where it has been a popular drink for decades.  People say the Paloma is believed to have emerged as a simple and refreshing alternative to the more complex Margarita.  And who doesn't love a Margarita??
Paloma - The "Other" Mexican Drink

Traditionally, the Paloma is made with tequila (usually blanco or reposado), grapefruit soda (such as Jarritos or Squirt), a squeeze of lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

Ingredients

* 2 oz tequila
* 1/2 oz lime juice
* 4 oz grapefruit soda (Squirt is a great one)
* Salt or Tajin (for rimming, optional)
* Lime and/or grapefruit wedge (for garnish)
* Ice cubes

Instructions


1. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of the glass, then dip the rim into a plate of salt or Tajin… if you want. ;)
2. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour the tequila and lime juice over the ice in the glass.
4. Top it off with grapefruit soda.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Garnish with a lime or grapefruit wedge.  ✨
However, as mixologists get to playing, variations of the Paloma have emerged, sometimes using fresh grapefruit juice and club soda instead of grapefruit soda. 

That means to craft another variation of the Paloma, you'll need:
Tequila: Opt for a good quality blanco or reposado tequila. Its smooth agave notes will complement the citrus of the cocktail.
Grapefruit Juice: Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is key here. Its tangy, slightly bitter profile gives the Paloma its distinctive character. Or lots of folks go the Squirt soda route.
Lime Juice: A splash of freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness and balances the flavors of the grapefruit and tequila.
Simple Syrup (optional): Depending on your preference for sweetness, a touch of simple syrup can be added to round out the flavors. This is especially useful if your grapefruit juice is particularly tart.
Club Soda: For that effervescent lift, top off your Paloma with a splash of club soda. It adds a refreshing sparkle and lightens the drink.
Salt: A rim of salt on your glass is traditional for a Paloma. Use coarse salt for a nice crunch and a hint of savory contrast.  Or our fave ... TAJIN!

Additional Ingredients

By aebrommer@gmail.com

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