Hibiscus Paloma Cocktail Recipe

Hibiscus Paloma Nutrition Facts

Calories:150

Fat:0g

Protein:0g

Carbohydrates:15g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Paloma is a beloved cocktail in Mexico, often more popular than the Margarita. It traditionally features grapefruit soda and tequila. The Hibiscus Paloma is a delightful twist, incorporating the floral notes of hibiscus, which is a common ingredient in Mexican cuisine, particularly in beverages like 'Agua de Jamaica'. It's a refreshing choice for those who enjoy a balance of tart and sweet flavors, with a floral undertone that makes it quite unique.

  • Popularity: Favored in warm climates and beach settings.
  • Occasions: Perfect for brunches, summer gatherings, or as a sundowner.
  • Variations: Can be made with different sweeteners or citrus juices.

How Hibiscus Paloma Tastes?

The Hibiscus Paloma is a harmonious blend of sweet and tart, with the tanginess of grapefruit juice and the subtle sweetness of hibiscus syrup. The white tequila provides a smooth, agave-forward base, while the club soda adds a refreshing fizz. The salted rim brings a savory contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Interesting facts about Hibiscus Paloma

  • The hibiscus flower is not only used for its flavor but also for its vibrant color, which adds a beautiful hue to the cocktail.
  • Palomas are traditionally served in a highball glass, which allows for the perfect ratio of ingredients and ice.
  • Hibiscus has been used in traditional medicine and is believed to have health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure.

Ingredients

Grapefruit Wedge

Used as both a garnish and for preparing the salted rim. The citrus aromatics accentuate the drink's freshness. Without it, you'd miss out on some zest.

Mary Mitkina

Fresh Grapefruit Juice

Here for the bitter-sweet flair and the signature Paloma flavor profile. Less juice makes a stiffer drink, more juice makes it fruitier.

Alex Green

Fresh Lime Juice

Provides a bright, sharp tang to cut through sweetness. Too much can over-sour the cocktail, too little makes it cloy.

Emma Rose

Hibiscus Simple Syrup

Adds a floral, crimson twist. Without this, it's just a normal Paloma. Swap with agave for a less floral but still sweet alternative.

Mary Mitkina

White Tequila

The spirit backbone. Tequila's herbal notes play well with grapefruit. Using mezcal could add a smoky dimension.

Alex Green

Club Soda

Brings the fizz, without overwhelming the other flavors. Skip it, and your cocktail falls flat—literally.

Emma Rose

Kosher Salt

The rim garnish. It heightens flavor perception and adds texture. No salt rim means a less vibrant taste excursion.

Mary Mitkina

Recipe. How to make Hibiscus Paloma Drink

  1. Prepare Hibiscus Simple Syrup:
    • Boil water, steep hibiscus flowers, strain, dissolve sugar, and cool.
  2. Salt the Rim:
    • Rub rim with grapefruit wedge, dip in kosher salt.
  3. Mix the Cocktail:
    • In the glass, combine grapefruit juice, lime juice, and hibiscus syrup.
    • Stir in tequila.
    • Add ice and top with club soda.
  4. Garnish:
    • Place grapefruit wedge on the rim or float it in the drink.

Pro Tips

  • Chill the glass beforehand to keep the cocktail colder for longer.
  • Use freshly squeezed grapefruit and lime juice for the best flavor.
  • Adjust the hibiscus syrup to taste; some may prefer a more floral note.

Perfect Pairings

Seafood

  • Ceviche: The acidity of the grapefruit and lime would complement the fresh, bright flavors of ceviche.
  • Grilled Shrimp: The smoky flavor from the grill harmonizes with the fruity and floral notes of the cocktail.

Poultry

  • Chicken Tacos: The crispness of the Paloma is a refreshing counterbalance to the spice of seasoned chicken.

Snacks

  • Chips and Guacamole: The saltiness of the chips and the richness of the avocado are great accompaniments to the tangy and sweet cocktail.

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What you could change in Hibiscus Paloma

  • Tequila: Use a reposado tequila for a deeper flavor.
  • Hibiscus Simple Syrup: If unavailable, a raspberry or blackberry syrup can provide a similar color and a fruity note.
  • Club Soda: Sparkling mineral water can be used for a more mineral taste.

Explore all drinks starting with H here

And of course - twists🍹

Spicy Hibiscus Paloma

  • Add a few slices of jalapeño to the shaker before mixing. This will give the drink a spicy kick that contrasts the sweetness.

Hibiscus-Infused Tequila Paloma

  • Infuse your tequila with dried hibiscus flowers for several days before making the cocktail. It enhances the hibiscus flavor and deepens the color.

Hibiscus Paloma Punch

  • Multiply the recipe by 8 and mix in a large punch bowl. Float slices of grapefruit and lime, and edible hibiscus flowers for a festive party option.

In case you forgot basics how to make Hibiscus Paloma

The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.

Learn everything about simple syrup

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.

Learn everything on how to stir

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Hibiscus Paloma

What is the origin of the Paloma cocktail?

The Paloma cocktail is a classic Mexican drink, widely believed to have originated in the state of Jalisco, the birthplace of tequila.

How does the flavor of hibiscus influence a cocktail?

Hibiscus adds a floral and slightly tart note to cocktails, also imparting a vibrant color that makes drinks visually appealing.

Can I make a non-alcoholic version of the Hibiscus Paloma?

Absolutely! Substitute tequila with a non-alcoholic spirit alternative or simply increase the amounts of grapefruit and lime juices.

What is the best time of year to enjoy a Hibiscus Paloma?

While a Hibiscus Paloma can be enjoyed year-round, it's especially refreshing during the spring and summer months.

Is the Hibiscus Paloma suitable for a party cocktail menu?

Certainly, its vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it an excellent choice for social gatherings and parties.

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