The Mexican Firing Squad is a vibrant, tequila-based cocktail with a perfect blend of citrusy, sweet, and spicy notes. Dating back to the 1930s, this drink hails from Mexico City, offering a timeless tribute to the bold and robust flavors of Mexican mixology. With tequila as the star ingredient, complemented by lime juice, grenadine, and bitters, it’s an unforgettable drink for any occasion.
How to Make Homemade Mexican Squad Cocktail
The Mexican Firing Squad is a simple yet flavorful cocktail made by combining tequila, lime juice, grenadine, and aromatic bitters in a shaker. The ingredients are shaken with ice to create a well-balanced drink and served over fresh ice for a refreshing experience.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila
- 0.75 oz fresh lime juice
- 0.5 oz grenadine
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedge and cherry (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glass: Add tequila, lime juice, grenadine, and bitters to a cocktail glass filled with ice.
- Shake: Shake well for about 10 seconds to mix the flavors and chill the drink.
- Serve: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish: Top with a lime wheel or cherry for an elegant finish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a pre-dinner drink to whet your guests’ appetites.
- Pair with Mexican cuisine, such as tacos or enchiladas.
- Present in a coupe glass for a sophisticated look.
- Offer alongside a charcuterie board for an upscale pairing.
- Serve at summer parties or Cinco de Mayo celebrations for a festive touch.
Tips and Variations
- Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
- Substitute grenadine with homemade pomegranate syrup for a richer taste.
- Adjust the bitters to suit your personal preference.
- Add a splash of soda water for a lighter, bubbly variation.
- Experiment with mezcal instead of tequila for a smoky twist.
Preparation Time
- Preparation time time: 5 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 170
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Alcohol Content: Varies
Ingredient Substitutes
- Tequila: Use mezcal or white rum for a different base.
- Grenadine: Replace with raspberry syrup or cranberry juice for a similar sweetness.
- Bitters: Use orange bitters for a citrusy twist.
- Lime Juice: Lemon juice can be used if lime is unavailable.
- Garnish: Swap lime for orange slices or omit altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of tequila works best for this cocktail?
Blanco tequila is ideal for its clean and crisp flavor, but reposado can add depth.
Can I make it a pitcher for a party?
Yes, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings and mix in a large pitcher.
Is the Mexican Firing Squad sweet or sour?
It’s a balanced drink with tart lime juice, sweet grenadine, and bitters adding complexity.
Can this cocktail be made non-alcoholic?
Substitute tequila with sparkling water for a mocktail version.
What’s the history behind the name?
The name adds intrigue but is believed to reflect the drink’s bold, striking flavors.
Conclusion
The Mexican Firing Squad is a timeless cocktail that combines bold tequila with sweet, tart, and spicy elements for a truly dynamic drinking experience. Its naturalness and phantasy make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Try it today and discover why this classic continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts around the world. Cheers!
Mexican Firing Squad Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Instructions
Prepare the Glass
Add tequila, lime juice, grenadine, and bitters to a cocktail glass filled with ice.
Shake
Shake well for about 10 seconds to mix the flavors and chill the drink.
Serve
Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
Garnish
Top with a lime wheel or cherry for an elegant finish.
