📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Tequila
Alcohol 14%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 12g
Prep time 2 minutes
Imagine you’re sipping on sunshine with a kick, that’s the Mexican Firing Squad. It’s a lively drink, mixing sweet, sour, and a little spice, all dancing together in a glass. Let’s dive in and discover its story, taste, and how you can make it at home ⬇️
History
The Mexican Firing Squad was born in Mexico City during the 1930s. It’s a cocktail with a past as colorful as its ingredients. This drink tells a tale of tradition and taste, from a time of revolutionaries and rebels.
- The name evokes a sense of adventure and rebellion.
- First mentioned in Charles H. Baker’s book, “The Gentleman’s Companion.”
- It gained popularity at the historic La Cucaracha Bar in Mexico City.
The taste of a Mexican Firing Squad?
A sip of the Mexican Firing Squad is like a fiesta in your mouth. It’s tangy, sweet, with a thrilling hint of chili, making it exciting with every gulp.
I love the Mexican Firing Squad for its bold flavors that make my taste buds dance. It’s like a party in a cup!
Interesting facts about Mexican Firing Squad
- This cocktail is often enjoyed during festive celebrations in Mexico.
- Its vibrant red color is as intense as its name suggests.
- The combination of lime and grenadine gives it a signature sweet and tart taste.
Ingredients 📃
- Tequila: 2 oz (60ml)
- Lime juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Grenadine: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Angostura bitters: a dash
- Soda water: to top up
A highball glass is the ideal vessel for a Mexican Firing Squad. Its tall stature allows for the perfect ratio of ingredients to ice, enhancing the drink’s refreshing nature. Alternatively, a Collins glass can also be quite fitting.
Recipe. How to make Mexican Firing Squad 🍹
- Fill a shaker with ice to chill.
- Add 2 oz tequila, 1 oz lime juice, 0.5 oz grenadine, and a dash of Angostura bitters to the shaker.
- Shake well and strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with soda water and garnish with a lime slice.
The Mexican Firing Squad isn’t just about bold flavors; it’s a sweet cocktail that can be high in sugar. You could swap the grenadine for a dash of natural pomegranate juice and a pinch of stevia for a healthier twist. Its ingredients, like tequila, have both perks and downsides depending on consumption.
Food Pairings
An excellent cocktail deserves great food companions. Here are some perfect matches for the Mexican Firing Squad.
Tacos Al Pastor
The tangy flavors of the cocktail cut through the richness of the pork, making for an irresistible combo.
Grilled Fish
A lighter option that pairs beautifully with the bright citrus notes in the drink.
Spicy Guacamole
The heat from the guacamole and the coolness from the cocktail create a delightful contrast.
I truly admire the Mexican Firing Squad’s ability to balance spicy, sweet, and sour—it’s a thrill for the senses!
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Bartender Advice
- Using fresh lime juice is key to the vibrant taste.
- Don’t skimp on the Angostura bitters; they add complexity to the drink.
- Adjust the spice level to taste; it should be exciting, not overwhelming.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Mexican Firing Squad, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Mexican Firing Squad
- Tequila: Swap for mezcal for a smokier flavor.
- Soda water: Use flavored sparkling water for an extra zing.
- Grenadine: Try homemade syrup for a more authentic taste.
Mexican Firing Squad Variations
Smoky Squad
- Ingredients: Replace tequila with mezcal.
- Recipe: Follow the original recipe, substituting mezcal for tequila.
Spicy Squad
- Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker.
- Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño before adding the other ingredients.
Fruity Squad
- Ingredients: Include muddled fresh berries.
- Recipe: Shake berries with the other ingredients and strain into the glass.
For a non-alcoholic version, shake together lime juice, grenadine, and a dash of bitters, then top with soda water. It’s as festive and colorful as the original, without the kick!
Q&A
Can I make the Mexican Firing Squad ahead of time?
Sure thing! Mix all ingredients except soda water and store in the fridge. Just add soda right before serving.
What’s the best tequila for a Mexican Firing Squad?
A quality blanco tequila works wonders. It’s clean, crisp, and shines through the mix.
Is there a non-alcoholic bitters I can use?
Yes, there are several brands offering non-alcoholic bitters perfect for a virgin version.
How can I make my Mexican Firing Squad spicier?
Add a muddled slice of jalapeño or a few drops of hot sauce to dial up the heat.
What if I don’t have grenadine?
Pomegranate juice with a touch of honey can be a great substitute.
Are there any garnish alternatives?
Absolutely, try a salt rim or a sprig of mint for a different twist.
