Vampiro Cocktail Recipe

The Vampiro cocktail is a popular Mexican drink that originated in the 1960s. It is said to have been created by a bartender named Jesus Gonzalez, who wanted to create a refreshing and flavorful drink that would appeal to both locals and tourists. The name 'Vampiro' comes from its deep red color, which is reminiscent of blood.

• The drink gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, especially in beach resorts and nightclubs
• It is often enjoyed during celebrations, such as Cinco de Mayo and Day of the Dead
• The Vampiro cocktail is a favorite among tequila lovers and those who enjoy spicy, fruity flavors

The Vampiro cocktail is a complex and flavorful drink that combines sweet, sour, spicy, and salty elements. It has a bold, fruity taste from the orange and lime juices, a spicy kick from the hot sauce, and a subtle sweetness from the grenadine. The tequila adds warmth and depth, while the salt rim balances out the flavors.

• The Vampiro is sometimes called the 'Bloody Maria,' as it is similar to a Bloody Mary but made with tequila instead of vodka
• The drink is often served in a tall glass, allowing for the layers of flavors to be visually appealing
• The Vampiro is a versatile cocktail that can be easily customized by adjusting the amount of hot sauce, grenadine, or tequila to suit individual tastes

1. Prepare the glass:
   • Wet the rim of a tall glass with a lime wedge
   • Dip the rim in salt to create a salted rim
2. Fill the glass with ice
3. In a cocktail shaker, combine the following ingredients:
   • 2oz tequila
   • 4oz orange juice
   • 1oz lime juice
   • 1-2 dashes of hot sauce
4. Shake well to mix the ingredients
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass
6. Slowly pour 0.5oz of grenadine into the glass, allowing it to sink to the bottom
7. Garnish with a lime wedge on the rim of the glass

• Use fresh citrus juice for the best flavor. Bottled juices can be too sweet or too sour.
• Adjust the hot sauce to your liking. Some like it spicy, some don't.
• Chill your glass before serving for a refreshing drink.

Food Pairings

• Grilled Seafood: The smokiness from the grill pairs delightfully with the citrus notes of the Vampiro.
• Tacos Al Pastor: The spice from the hot sauce and the sweetness from the grenadine complement the flavors of this classic Mexican dish.
• Spicy Wings: The cocktail's spicy and sweet profile can match well against the heat from wings.

Drinks Pairings

• Cold Mexican Beer: Helps cleanse the palate between sips of the Vampiro.
• Margarita: Offering a Margarita alongside provides a contrast between two different tequila-based cocktails.

• Tequila: Can be replaced with Mezcal for a smokier flavor.
• Orange Juice: Can be replaced with Grapefruit Juice for a more tart flavor.
• Hot Sauce: Can be omitted or replaced with a dash of cayenne pepper.

Michelada Vampiro

• Replace tequila with a light Mexican beer
• Increase lime juice to 2oz
• Add a splash of tomato juice
• Garnish with a spicy pickled pepper

The Michelada Vampiro brings in a savory note with the tomato juice and makes it a perfect brunch companion. It's as if the Vampiro took a little vacation to the heart of Mexico, turned into a refreshingly tangy beer cocktail—great for those who want a kick, but with a little less spirit.

Frozen Vampiro Slush

• Freeze the orange and lime juices in ice cube trays beforehand
• Blend the frozen juice cubes with tequila and hot sauce
• Garnish with a frozen lime wheel

Imagine your Vampiro went on an Arctic exploration and came back as a slushie. This version would be perfect for sweltering days or when you want to turn your cocktail party into a fiesta on ice.

Vampiro Sangriento

• Add 1oz of cranberry juice
• Use a smoky mezurcal instead of tequila
• Use chili powder instead of salt for the rim

The deep red of cranberry juice turns your Vampiro into a truly 'bloodthirsty' experience. With the smokiness of mezcal, this twist is for those who like to walk on the wild side, where the smoky meets the spicy in a dance of flavors.