Paloma (Pigeon) - The most authentic and refreshing Mexican national cocktail 🍹🍊🕊️

The Paloma (Pigeon) is a beloved classic cocktail native to Mexico, even more beloved by locals than the Margarita. It uses a tequila base, blended with fresh grapefruit juice (or grapefruit soda), lime juice, soda water, and either sugar syrup or agave syrup. It's finished with a salt rim or a splash of salt, resulting in a refreshing, sweet-tart, and bubbly drink. This pink-tinged drink is incredibly refreshing and refreshing in the summer, perfect for young couples in Hong Kong, chilling at a bar, or enjoying a BBQ party! I find the Paloma to be the most accessible and versatile classic Tequila choice in recent years.

Paloma Classic Ingredients

• 50-60 ml tequila (blanco or reposado)

• 45-90 ml grapefruit juice (preferably fresh ruby ​​red grapefruit juice)

• 10-15 ml lime juice (freshly squeezed)

• 10-15 ml syrup/agave syrup (simple syrup or agave syrup)

• 60-90 ml sparkling water (or grapefruit sparkling water such as Fresca or Squirt)

• A small amount of coarse salt (sprinkle on the edge of the cup or on the surface for a better taste)

• Lots of ice

• Grapefruit slices and lime wedges for garnish

Classic approach

1. First wet the rim of the glass with grapefruit or lime and dip the rim of the glass in coarse salt.

2. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and syrup to a shaker or tall glass and stir briefly.

3. Add plenty of ice and top with sparkling water/grapefruit soda.

4. Stir gently until combined and garnish with grapefruit or lime slices before serving.

5. The sweet and sour ratio can be adjusted according to your preference.

Flavor characteristics

The Paloma's defining features are the refreshing tartness of grapefruit, the invigorating kick of lime, and the unique sweetness of tequila. Sparkling water enhances the palate, creating a refreshing and open taste. The salt rim creates a tart yet salty taste that's particularly appetizing. Whether it's a party, a gathering, or a barbecue, this drink pairs perfectly with food—you'll never want to stop!

Editor's perspective TIPS + variations

• If you like the "authentic Mexican flavor", you can directly use grapefruit soda (such as Jarritos, Squirt), saving the trouble of squeezing it yourself and instantly returning to the classic taste.

• If you prefer a more natural taste, use more fresh grapefruit juice and sparkling water and adjust the sweetness yourself.

• The salt rim of the cup really enhances the freshness and makes you feel more popular. You can also add a small amount of Tajín chili salt for a Hong Kong fusion style.

• Party guests can add a few slices of chili or cucumber to create their own flavor.

• You can freely increase or decrease the proportion of syrup or replace it with honey or herbal syrup to enjoy a variety of drinking methods.

• If you want a non-alcoholic drink in the summer, you can replace the tequila with soda or sparkling water, which is the mocktail version of Paloma.

The Paloma is undoubtedly the most versatile, fun, and trendy cocktail of recent years, never boring even when you're drinking it. With its sweet and tart flavor, refreshing flavor, and refreshing heat relief, it's a must-have for spring and summer parties, chili parties, or barbecues in Hong Kong. We recommend experimenting with different recipes to find your perfect "Pink Dove" and enjoy the Mexican sunshine while sipping! 🍹🍊🕊️