Serious Eats - seriouseats.com
The Spice of Life
[Photo: Nicci Silva]
Sometimes a bit of spice in a cocktail is just the right thing to remind you that you're still alive. Here's a simple drink that can be adjusted to suit both those who crave heat, and those who like it a bit more mild. It's dynamite with tequila, but you can also make a smoky version with mezcal, or a more herbal version with gin.
The Spice of Life
About This Recipe
| Yield: | 1 |
| Active time: | 5 minutes |
| Total time: | 5 minutes |
| Special equipment: | cocktail shaker, muddler, cocktail strainer, fine mesh strainer |
Ingredients
- Half of 1 ripe strawberry
- 1 stalk cilantro, chopped in 3 pieces
- 2 thin slices cucumber
- 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/4 ounce agave nectar
- 1/8 ounce amaro (I used Averna)
- 2 ounces tequila
- 2 drops Sriracha, or more to taste
- Ice
- Garnish: 3 thin slices cucumber
Procedures
-
1
Muddle strawberry, cilantro, and two cucumber slices. Add lime juice, agave nectar, amaro, tequila, and Sriracha. Fill shaker with ice.
-
2
Shake vigorously and double-strain into an ice-filled rocks glass. Garnish with remaining cucumber slices.