Spicy Paloma: The Jalapeño Paloma Cocktail

All Sips, All Occasions, Always Altos
January 3, 2023
step by step guide for cocktail perfection

Ingredients

Number of servings
60 ML. tequila blanco
60 ML. grapefruit soda (or similar)
30 ML. fresh lime juice
1 JALAPEñO PEPPER, SLICED THINLY
3 DASHES OF BITTERS (OPTIONAL)
PARTS ML

How to mix it?

  • To make your own Spicy Paloma with Jalapeños at home, follow these steps: Add 2 oz of tequila and 1 oz of lime juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds, until the ingredients are well-chilled. Strain the mixture into a salt-rimmed glass over fresh ice. Top with 2 oz of grapefruit soda and garnish by pressing a jalapeño slice until it releases its oils over the drink. Add a few more slices of jalapeños for extra heat.

We know what you’re thinking: “Why put jalapeños in cocktails?” Well, let us explain. It’s all about the flavour—the kind that makes your mouth water and keeps you coming back for more. Because, ultimately, nothing beats the experience of a spicy drink!

You might also be wondering, “Why choose a spicy Paloma?”

We have a few answers. First, they’re absolutely delicious. Second, they’re easy to make—perfect for whipping up at home or grabbing at your local bar or restaurant. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try infusing your own tequila with jalapeños? It’s incredibly simple to do and tastes fantastic!

Spicy Paloma Ingredients to Do the Best Version of this Cocktail

How to Make this Spicy Paloma Recipe

If you’re seeking a refreshing twist on the classic tequila cocktail, this spicy Paloma recipe is the one to try. It’s simple to make, yet bursting with bold flavours!

Combine 2 oz of tequila and 1 oz of lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously for around 15 seconds. Strain the mix into a salt-rimmed glass filled with fresh ice, and top it off with grapefruit soda. Garnish by gently pressing a jalapeño slice to release its oils into the drink, then add more jalapeño slices for an extra kick if desired.

Learn More About the Spicy Paloma and Others Altos Plata Cocktails

Alternatively, you can explore other versions of the Paloma. The Smoky Paloma is likely the least known, but you’ll also discover how to prepare the original recipe, along with another variation of the Spicy Paloma:

How to Infuse Tequila with Jalapeños

To infuse tequila with jalapeños, you will need the following ingredients:

  • Tequila
  • Fresh jalapenos
  • A jar or container with a tight-fitting lid
  • The process is as follows:

 Wash and slice the jalapeños into thin rounds, removing the seeds if you want less spice. Place the jalapeño slices in the jar and add the tequila. Close the jar and let the infusion rest for a few days, shaking the jar once a day. The longer you infuse the tequila, the spicier and more jalapeño-flavoured it will be.
When you have reached the desired level of spice and flavour, remove the jalapeños and strain the tequila through a fine-mesh cloth strainer or filter paper to remove any seeds or pieces of jalapeño. Serve the jalapeño-infused tequila over ice and enjoy as desired.

Note: If you want to add some additional flavour to the infusion, you can add some fresh coriander or cilantro leaves to the jar along with the jalapeños. Enjoy!

How to Prepare your Spicy Paloma’s Jalapeños

Tips from Our Experts to Prepare the Spicy Paloma Recipe

If you’re looking to make your own delicious spicy paloma at home, here are some tips from our bartenders:

  • Start with a good tequila. Any type will do—we recommend Olmeca Altos Plata or Olmeca Altos Reposado.
  • Next, grab some grapefruit soda and lime juice. If possible, use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled lime juice because the flavour will be much better.
  • It’s important to have all the ingredients ready before you start preparing your cocktail.
  • Finally, add some jalapeños and salt to taste (or even chilli powder if you like things spicy!). If you want a milder version of this cocktail, reduce the amount of jalapeños.
Our spicy paloma drink

The Frozen Spicy Paloma Version for the Summer

If you’re looking for a delicious summer drink that will keep you cool and refreshed, this is it! It’s time to bring back your favourite summer drink, Frozen Spicy Paloma!

What you need:

  • 2 ounces silver tequila
  • 1 oz. lime juice
  • 2 oz. grapefruit soda (or similar)
  • 3 jalapeños, cut into rings
  • 1 cup crushed ice
  • 1/2 oz. orange liqueur (optional)
  • 3 dashes Tabasco sauce (optional)

How to make it:

Simply combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Pour into a glass filled with ice and garnish with jalapeños if desired!

Olmeca Altos to Enjoy of this Spicy Paloma

Olmeca Altos is a fantastic tequila for making Spicy Palomas with jalapeños as it’s made from agave grown in the Los Altos region of Jalisco, Mexico.

This region is renowned for its high altitude and fertile soil, making it ideal for cultivating agave. The distillers at Tequila Olmeca Altos take full advantage of this environment by using traditional cultivation and production methods.

This combination makes it perfect for cocktails like Spicy Palomas!

Your Questions Answered Spicy Paloma: The Jalapeño Paloma Cocktail

Can I use Altos in cocktails other than Margaritas?

Oh, definitely. Altos levels up everything from Palomas to Tequila Sunrises — even an Old Fashioned if you’re feeling creative. If it’s got a glass, Altos belongs in it.

What’s the difference between Plata, Reposado, and Añejo?

Plata’s fresh and vibrant, Reposado’s smooth with a touch of oak, and Añejo’s rich, deep, and full of character. Three tequilas, three moods — all pure Altos.

Is Altos Tequila made sustainably?

Yep — we’re big on doing things the right way. From recycling agave fibres to reusing water at the distillery, Altos keeps it clean and green. Great tequila, made with a conscience.

What’s the best way to drink Altos Tequila?

However you like it. It’s a knockout in a Margarita or Paloma, but just as good neat if you want to taste that craftsmanship. Whatever the occasion, Altos always brings the good vibes.

What makes Altos Tequila different from other tequilas?

Altos isn’t just another tequila — it’s the real deal. Made from 100% Blue Agave grown high in Jalisco, slow-cooked, copper-distilled, and crafted by bartenders who know their stuff. The result? A tequila that’s smooth, bold, and built for mixing.
Superstar of themonth
award winning tequila
Olmeca Altos Plata
Balanced, with bright lime, subtle herbs, and a clean, lingering finish.
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