Paloma cocktail
The Paloma cocktail is a tequila-based drink mixed with lime juice and topped with grapefruit soda.
The Paloma is regarded to have more flavor than its closest relative, the greyhound, which also uses grapefruit juice but is mixed with vodka and served over ice.
This refreshing cooler is of Mexican origin that dates back to 1950s. In Spanish, "paloma" means "dove".
- Total Time:
- Type: Cocktail
- Units: 2
Equipment
- Highball glass
Ingredients
- 60 ml tequila
- 15 ml lime juice
- 60 ml grapefruit soda (to top)
- lime wedge (for the salted rim)
- salt (for the rim)
- 1 grapefruit wedge
Instructions
- Wipe a slice of lemon around the glass edges. Dip it in sugar to create an even rim. Place aside.
- Add the tequila and lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, then shake well until chilled.
- Strain the liquid into a prepared glass.
- Add a few ice cubes, and top with grapefruit soda.
- Garnish the glass with a grapefruit wedge.
FAQ
What is a Paloma cocktail?
A Paloma is a cocktail made with tequila and grapefruit juice.
What is the difference between a Paloma and Margarita?
A Paloma also uses tequila like a Margarita, but the Paloma cocktail doesn’t contain triple sec and instead uses a grapefruit juice mix.
What is the national cocktail of Mexico?
The Paloma is generally regarded as the national cocktail of Mexico.
Do I need to use grapefruit soda or can I use juice?
Either works. Traditional recipes favour grapefruit soda (like Jarritos or Squirt), but fresh grapefruit juice with soda water is a great alternative.
What type of tequila is best for a Paloma?
Blanco (un-aged) tequila is most commonly used for its bright, crisp character, but reposado can add a touch of complexity.
Can I make it less sweet?
Yes, use fresh grapefruit juice and soda water instead of sweetened soda, and adjust lime and sweetener to taste.
Is the Paloma a popular drink in Mexico?
Yes, in fact the Paloma is more popular in Mexico than the Margarita, especially as a casual, refreshing drink.
What are the ingredients for a Paloma?
The Paloma continues tequila and grapefruit juice (soda) and a little lime juice.
What vodka cocktails are best?
If you like a vodka drink like the Paloma cocktail, we also have a roundup of our top ten cocktails with vodka, its not official, but we think you’ll find these cocktails are all worth trying.