Ingredients
Liquids
- 3 ounces Mezcal
- 1 ounce orange liqueur
- 4 ounces lime juice (preferably freshly squeezed)
- 1 ounce agave nectar (simple syrup)
- 12 ounces pineapple juice
Produce & Herbs
- 1/2 small jalapeño (sliced thinly, plus more as a garnish)
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves (plus more as a garnish)
- 2 wedges of pineapple
Other
- Ice
Instructions
- Infuse the Mezcal: Place the mezcal in a glass or jar and add the thinly sliced jalapeño slices. Allow it to steep for 15-20 minutes to infuse the smoky spirit with spicy heat. For a spicier flavor, let it steep longer.
- Muddle the Cilantro and Mix Base Ingredients: Gently muddle the fresh cilantro leaves in a large glass just enough to release their essential oils. Add the orange liqueur, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave nectar to the glass and stir to combine. Strain this mixture into a cocktail shaker to ensure smoothness.
- Combine and Shake: Strain the jalapeño-infused mezcal into the cocktail shaker, discarding the jalapeño slices to avoid overpowering heat. Add the pineapple juice and fresh ice cubes to the shaker. Secure the lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15 seconds to chill and meld the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Fill serving glasses with fresh ice and strain the shaken cocktail over the ice. Garnish each glass with a wedge of fresh pineapple, a few jalapeño slices for an extra kick, and fresh cilantro leaves. Serve immediately for the best taste experience.
Notes
- Adjust the steeping time of the jalapeños in mezcal according to your preferred spice level.
- Freshly squeezed lime juice makes a significant difference in flavor quality.
- You can substitute agave nectar with simple syrup if unavailable, but agave complements mezcal’s flavor better.
- For a less intense spice, remove seeds from jalapeños before slicing.
- This cocktail is best served immediately to enjoy optimal freshness and flavor balance.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (steeping time)
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
