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Tamarind Paloma Recipe

Tamarind Paloma Recipe

By What’s Baking

A vibrant twist on the classic Paloma, featuring sweet-tangy tamarind that harmonizes perfectly with tequila's earthy notes and grapefruit's citrusy brightness.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
5 mins
Cook Time:
Serves:
1 cocktail
A tall Collins glass showcases layers of amber and blush-pink liquid, with a salt-rimmed edge catching the warm afternoon light. The cocktail's surface features delicate bubbles from the grapefruit soda, while a wedge of ruby-red grapefruit and a cinnamon stick garnish rest on the rim. Condensation beads elegantly down the glass, reflecting the golden-hour glow that highlights the tamarind-infused drink's rich gradient of color. In the background, slightly blurred, sits a small bowl of fresh tamarind pods and sliced grapefruits, suggesting the natural ingredients that create this complex flavor profile.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml blanco tequila</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">30ml fresh grapefruit juice</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">15ml fresh lime juice</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">20ml tamarind syrup (or 15ml tamarind concentrate mixed with 5ml simple syrup)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">90ml grapefruit soda (or sparkling water for less sweetness)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Pinch of salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Grapefruit wedge and cinnamon stick for garnish</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Collins glass</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Bar spoon</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Jigger</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Citrus juicer</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Plate for salt rim (optional)</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>If desired, prepare your glass by running a lime or grapefruit wedge around the rim and dipping it in coarse salt. This adds a savory element that beautifully complements the sweet-tart profile of the cocktail.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Fill your Collins glass with ice cubes. Use larger cubes if possible as they melt more slowly, preventing over-dilution of your carefully balanced flavors.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Pour the tequila, fresh grapefruit juice, lime juice, and tamarind syrup directly into the glass. The combination of three distinct acid profiles (tamarind, grapefruit, and lime) creates a complex tartness that's the hallmark of this cocktail.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Add a small pinch of salt directly to the liquid ingredients. This won't make the drink salty but rather enhances the flavor compounds in the fruit juices and tequila, similar to how salt works in cooking.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Gently pour the grapefruit soda down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. The effervescence lifts the aromatic compounds in the drink, enhancing the overall sensory experience.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Stir gently with a bar spoon, using a smooth up-and-down motion rather than circular stirring to maintain carbonation while ensuring the ingredients are properly integrated.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Garnish with a grapefruit wedge and cinnamon stick. The cinnamon provides an aromatic element that complements tamarind's natural spice notes, while the grapefruit wedge reinforces the citrus character.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Serve immediately while the drink is cold and the carbonation is at its peak. The tamarind's rich sweetness should be balanced perfectly with the bright citrus and earthy tequila notes.</li></ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 pastry
🔥 Calories: 320 calories
🥑 Fat: 19 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 11 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 32 g
🍭 Sugar: 3 g
🍗 Protein: 5 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 75 mg
🧂 Sodium: 240 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I substitute tequila with another spirit in this spiced citrus cocktail?

Yes, you can substitute tequila with mezcal for a smoky variation that complements the tamarind's earthiness brilliantly. Alternatively, a silver rum works well, offering a sweeter profile, though the cocktail will lose its traditional Paloma character and become a different drink entirely.

What's the best type of tamarind product to use for cocktails?

For cocktails, tamarind concentrate or paste offers the most consistent flavour and convenience. Look for pure tamarind without added sugar or preservatives. If making your own syrup, simmer tamarind pulp with equal parts sugar and water, then strain for a perfectly balanced sweet-tart profile.

How does this tamarind variation compare to a traditional Paloma?

This tamarind variation adds complex depth and spice notes not found in traditional Palomas. The sweet-sour tamarind complements tequila's earthy character while adding richness and body. It's slightly less bright but more nuanced, with the cinnamon garnish introducing aromatic warmth to the classic formula.

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