Red bell pepper cocktail is an unexpected delight
Red bell pepper cocktail with tequila and grapefruit juice
If you love a Paloma, you will love this red bell pepper cocktail. The flavor is completely unexpected, but you’ll immediately wonder – why haven’t I thought of this before?
Jump to RecipeWhat makes a cocktail a Paloma?
A Paloma is traditionally made with grapefruit, tequila and grapefruit-flavored carbonated soda. It’s a very popular cocktail in Mexico — some reports say it’s the most popular drink, even more beloved than a margarita.
Why do I call this red bell pepper cocktail a Paloma?
I kept the grapefruit and tequila while adding a spicy red bell pepper simple syrup. It still has a Paloma foundation, I think.
For an extra treat, try these pink peppercorn ice cubes
What you’ll need to make the red bell pepper cocktail
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- Red bell peppers
- Sugar
- Pink peppercorns
- Tequila
- Grapefruit
You’ll also need ice cube trays if you’re going to make the pink peppercorn ice cubes. They’re not necessary, but they do add a super spicy kick and an interesting visual aspect.
Red bell pepper cocktail with grapefruit and tequila
Course: CocktailsCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: EasyRed bell pepper provides an intriguing new flavor for a traditional Paloma cocktail.
For the red bell pepper simple syrup:
2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
2 tablespoons pink peppercorns
- For cocktail:
1 1/2 ounces red bell pepper simple syrup
1 1/2 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
2 ounces tequila
- For pink peppercorn ice cubes:
Pink peppercorns
Ice cube trays
Directions
- To make the bell pepper simple syrup: Bring the sugar, water and pink peppercorns to a boil. Add bell pepper slices and allow to simmer on low for 5 minutes. Turn off heat and let bell peppers steep in syrup for at least 30 minutes. Strain through fine mesh.
- To make the pink peppercorn ice cubes: Fill ice cube trays with water. Sprinkle pink peppercorns over the surface and freeze.
- To make cocktail: In a shaker, combine cocktail ingredients and shake. Pour into glass filled with ice cubes.
Want to try other versions of Palomas?
Here are two very fun Palomas to try, traditional and non-traditional versions.
