The Paloma is arguably the most popular cocktail in Mexico, even more so than the renowned Margarita. The origin of the Paloma is murky, but it’s been widely publicized that a bartender named Evan Harrison introduced it to the US courtesy of a 1953 pamphlet titled “Popular Cocktails of the Rio Grande“. Still, that hasn’t helped the Paloma gain the equivalent status of its close friend, the Margarita, in the United States. It’s not for a lack of grapefruits either. The United States ranks third in the world, and above Mexico, in terms of grapefruit production. Grapefruit has a bitter flavor, and many people either love it or hate it. Perhaps that and the Margarita’s de facto label as the king of tequila based party drinks (in the United States) contributes to the Paloma’s generally overlooked status.
That status needs to change though, and here’s a few reasons why. The Grapefruit Paloma is a fantastically refreshing summer sipper. That’s basically a fact. When made properly, the bitterness of the grapefruit is almost completely cut out. Compared to a Margarita, a Paloma is cheaper and easier for the average person to make at home. And, if that’s not enough, it’s one of the “healthiest” (i.e. least caloric) cocktails out there, as long as sparkling water, like Fresca, is used.
A very traditional Paloma is made by mixing tequila and fresh lime juice with grapefruit flavored soda. In Mexico, the soda used is more often than not Jarritos. I don’t stray too far from that original recipe. I added fresh grapefruit juice and simple syrup for a little boost of flavor.
Grapefruit Paloma
1
servings5
minutes5
minutes10
minutesOne of Mexico’s most beloved cocktails, the Grapefruit Paloma. It’s so simple to make and even more delicious.
Ingredients
2 ounces blanco tequila
8 ounces grapefruit Fresca
1 ounce grapefruit juice
1/2 ounce lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
ice
Directions
- Salt the rim of a cocktail glass. Rub the edges of the glass with a freshly cut lime wedge and dip it in a bowl or plate of salt.
- Mix together to the blanco tequila, grapefruit Fresca, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- If are using a cocktail shaker, add ice and shake. Pour into the cocktail glass and serve. Otherwise, mix separately and pour over ice into the cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lime or grapefruit wedge.
Notes
- To make simple syrup: Combine 1 cup water + 1 cup granulated sugar. This can be made ahead of time and stored for future use.