Tamarind Chili Paloma
A zesty Paloma variation blending tart tamarind with fresh grapefruit and a spicy chili salt rim for a bold, refreshing sip. This cocktails-inspired cocktails & drinks ready in about 7 minutes brings together blanco tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, tamarind syrup for a refreshing, crowd-pleasing drink — a bright, easy pour for parties, gatherings, or any warm-weather afternoon when you want something festive without alcohol-only options. Each serving lands at about 160 calories and feeds 1, so it works for entertaining, brunch, or a non-alcoholic option at the bar cart. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz blanco tequila
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1 oz tamarind syrup
- 2 oz club soda
- 1/4 tsp chili powder
- for rimming coarse salt
- 1 wedge lime wedge
- as needed ice cubes
Equipment for this recipe
Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.
Instructions
- Step 1: Mix 1/4 tsp chili powder with coarse salt on a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a highball glass and dip it into the chili salt mixture to coat evenly.
- Step 2: Fill the glass with ice cubes to the top.
- Step 3: In a shaker filled halfway with ice, pour 1.5 oz blanco tequila, 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice, and 1 oz tamarind syrup.
- Step 4: Shake gently for 8 seconds to blend and chill.
- Step 5: Strain into the prepared glass and top with 2 oz club soda.
- Step 6: Stir gently once with a bar spoon to combine.
- Step 7: Garnish by placing the lime wedge on the rim, allowing the chili salt rim to shine.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Tamarind Chili Paloma take to make?
Total time is about 7 minutes (7 min prep + 0 min cook). Most home bartenders find this fits a single afternoon; scale up the batch for parties or pitchers.
How do I store leftover Tamarind Chili Paloma?
Refrigerate any leftover tamarind chili paloma in a sealed pitcher or jar for up to 3–4 days. Do not reheat — drinks are served chilled. If the recipe uses sparkling water or fresh herbs, hold those back and add fresh just before pouring so the drink stays bright and fizzy.
Can I substitute ingredients in Tamarind Chili Paloma?
Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.
How do I scale Tamarind Chili Paloma for a different number of people?
The recipe is written for 1 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 1). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.
What goes well with Tamarind Chili Paloma?
Cocktails cocktails & drinks like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.
