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How to Infuse Tequila with Jalapenos

May 29, 2024

Infusing tequila with jalapeno peppers is a simple yet flavorful process that involves steeping sliced jalapenos in tequila to impart a spicy flavor. This technique is popular among cocktail enthusiasts looking to add a zesty touch to their beverages. The key to a successful infusion lies in balancing the intensity of the jalapenos with the smoothness of the tequila.

Ingredients for Jalapeno Tequila Infusion

Recommended Type of Tequila

For infusing jalapeno tequila, it’s best to use a blanco or silver tequila. These tequilas are unaged and have a clean, crisp flavor that pairs well with the sharp heat of jalapenos without overwhelming the palate.

Preparation of Jalapenos

Select fresh jalapenos that are firm and free of blemishes. The heat level can vary, so consider wearing gloves when handling the peppers. Removing the seeds and membranes can help manage the spiciness of your infusion.

The Preparation Process for Jalapeno Tequila

Slicing and Adding Jalapenos to Altos Plata Tequila

Thinly slice the jalapenos and add them to the tequila. The amount of jalapenos depends on your preferred level of heat. Typically, 2 to 4 medium-sized peppers per liter of tequila are a good starting point.

How Long to Infuse Tequila with Jalapeno

While 24 hours to 3 days is generally sufficient, some may prefer a shorter or longer infusion time based on personal taste preferences. A shorter infusion time will result in a milder flavor, while a longer period can create a deeply spicy and more robust profile.

Safety Tips for Handling Jalapenos

Wear gloves to avoid skin irritation, and make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling the peppers. Avoid touching your face or eyes during the process.

Straining and Storing Your Jalapeno Tequila

A fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth is necessary to remove all pieces of jalapeno from the tequila.

Some techniques for removing the jalapeno pieces: pour the tequila through the strainer into another container, ensuring no jalapeno bits remain in the liquid. This helps achieve a clear and smooth tequila.

Finally, store the jalapeno-infused tequila in a dark, cool place.

How to Infuse Tequila with Jalapeño and Cucumber

Infusing tequila with jalapeño and cucumber is an excellent way to add a refreshing and crisp element to the spicy kick of jalapeño. This combination makes for a beautifully balanced drink, perfect for summer cocktails or a unique twist on classic tequila-based recipes.

Choosing High-Quality Tequila

For this infusion, blanco or silver tequilas are recommended due to their neutral flavor profile, which complements the addition of cucumber and jalapeño without overpowering them. The clarity and smoothness of a good quality blanco tequila ensure that the subtle flavors of cucumber and the sharpness of jalapeño are prominent and not muddled.

When selecting your tequila, look for brands that are 100% agave, as these will provide a cleaner, purer taste and are generally of higher quality. Avoid mixtos, which may contain non-agave sugars and could affect the final taste of your infusion.

Altos Plata Tequila will be the perfect pairing for your jalapeno infusion, with its citrus and sweet notes it complements the spicy flavor. You will be able to elevate your favorite cocktails with this infusion, how about a Spicy Margarita? You can prepare it like this:

2 oz (60ml) Altos Plata infused with jalapeno.
1 oz (30ml) Fresh Lime Juice.
½ oz (15ml) Agave Syrup.
Shake everything and pour over ice.

Cucumbers: Preparation and Quantity

For the cucumber, choose fresh, firm cucumbers without any blemishes. Peeling the cucumbers is recommended to avoid any bitterness that the skin might impart. Slice the cucumbers thinly to maximize the surface area exposed to the tequila, which helps to extract maximum flavor.

Regarding quantity, about one medium cucumber per liter of tequila is ideal. This ratio offers a balanced flavor, ensuring that the cucumber’s freshness complements the jalapeño’s heat without overpowering it.

How about a Cucumber Tequila Tonic for those hot summer days?

Ingredients:

2 oz (60ml) Altos Plata infused with cucumber.
1 oz (30ml) Fresh Lime Juice.
Top with tonic water.
Serve everything in a high glass over ice and stir.

The Most Important Thing: High-Quality Tequila

Altos Tequila stands out for its dedication to quality and tradition. Made from 100% blue agave, Altos produces premium tequilas including Plata, Reposado, and Añejo. Their tequilas have garnered multiple awards at prestigious competitions such as the San Francisco Spirits Competition. Additionally, Altos is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, recognized for its eco-friendly practices and community support.