This Paloma riff is the ideal option for the spice lovers and heat-seekers out there. To make one, you follow the OG recipe and add a measure of easy-to-make jalapeño simple syrup. We recommend half an ounce, but you can also measure with your heart. It’s got quite a kick, so sip our sunny cocktail slowly and pair it with fish tacos or sweet BBQ wings for a perfect match!
Spicy Paloma
PREP TIME 5 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
1.
Rim a tall glass with lime juice and Tajin spice
02
2.
Add the tequila, lime juice, and jalapeño simple syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice
03
3.
Shake until frosty, and strain into a serving glass over fresh ice
04
4.
Top with grapefruit soda, and garnish with a fresh wedge of lime
Why spicy cocktails hit different
There’s something extra fun about a cocktail that brings the heat. Spicy drinks add a spark to the whole experience; they’re bold, memorable, and just a little bit wild. In the case of the Spicy Paloma, that kick of jalapeño works beautifully with the tangy grapefruit and zesty lime, giving the drink a personality that’s impossible to ignore.
The heat comes from capsaicin, the compound in chillies that lights up your nerve endings. It mimics the feeling of warmth, which is why spicy cocktails can feel so satisfying on a sunny day or during a night out when you want something with a little drama. It’s not just heat for the sake of it; it’s heat with purpose.
Turn Up the Heat: 8 Spicy Margarita Variations You Need to Try
Choosing the best chili for your simple syrup
Jalapeños are the go-to for a reason. They bring a mellow, grassy spice that works really well in a simple syrup, especially when you want that heat to balance out the citrus in a Paloma. But if you want to experiment, here are a few more options to try:
- Fresno chiles: Slightly sweeter than jalapeños, with a similar level of heat.
- Thai chiles: Small but mighty, perfect if you like a big kick.
- Habaneros: Super fiery with a floral edge; use a light hand.
INSIDER TIP! No matter which pepper you go for, always strain your syrup well, store it in the fridge, and label it clearly so no one ends up in a five-alarm situation by accident.
How to turn your Spicy Paloma into a party star
This cocktail isn’t just good, it’s built for fun. Here’s how to scale it up for a gathering:
- Make a pitcher batch: Multiply your ingredients, skip the soda for now, and let guests top off their drinks with bubbles.
- Pre-rim your glasses: Tajín, lime zest, and coarse salt bring a blast of flavor and make each glass feel like a mini event.
- Snack pairings: Serve with spicy trail mix, chili-lime popcorn, or citrusy shrimp skewers.
- BONUS! Freeze sliced jalapeños into ice cubes. It looks great, cools the drink, and keeps the heat steady.
Learn more: 13 Spicy Cocktail Recipes that Pack a Punch
Great food pairings for a Spicy Paloma
This cocktail deserves bold food to match. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself, try these flavor-packed combos:
- Fish tacos: Flaky white fish, crunchy slaw, and lime crema pair beautifully with the citrusy burn of the Paloma.
- Sweet BBQ chicken wings: The sweetness calms the spice, and the smokiness plays off the tequila.
- Grilled halloumi skewers: Salty, chewy cheese drizzled with hot honey—need we say more?
- Watermelon and feta salad: Sweet, salty, juicy, and crisp. The contrast with the drink’s heat is spot-on.
Also see: How to Pair Cocktails with Spicy Food
More spicy cocktails to try
If spicy drinks are your vibe, keep the fire going with these tried-and-true hits. Whether you like a slow burn or a fast blaze, these cocktails bring the heat in all the right ways.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes! You can use a mix of fresh grapefruit juice and soda water. You might need to tweak the simple syrup if you want a bit more sweetness.
Blanco tequila is the way to go. Brands like Espolòn (a Campari Group brand) are clean, bright, and agave-forward. It's perfect for cocktails with bold flavors.
Keep it sealed in the fridge and it should last up to a week. Make sure to strain it well and give it a quick smell before using.
