A great spicy cocktail isn’t just about heat — it’s about balance. The Blistered Heat Lime Smash blends warm roasted pepper flavors with cool citrus to create a drink that hits every note without overwhelming the palate. Fire-roasted jalapeños bring just enough smokiness to elevate the classic margarita profile into something deeper and more interesting.
Tequila reposado adds a touch of oak-aged smoothness that rounds out the spice beautifully. Fresh lime brightens everything, while a lightly sweetened agave blend keeps the flavors clean and natural. Muddling the roasted jalapeño infuses the drink with real depth instead of just surface-level spice.
This cocktail works year-round, shining in summer with grilled entrées or standing strong in cooler months when smoky flavors feel comforting. Rim the glass with Tajín for extra zing, or keep it classic with a simple salt rim. Whether you're a spice-lover or just jalapeño-curious, this drink brings the perfect punch.
Ingredients
- 2 oz tequila reposado
- 1 oz lime juice
- 0.5 oz agave nectar
- 0.5 oz orange liqueur
- 2 slices blistered jalapeño (charred over flame or skillet)
- 1 ice cube
- Tajín or smoked salt for the rim
Instructions
- Char the jalapeño slices over a flame or hot dry skillet until blistered; allow to cool, then remove seeds for a milder drink.
- Muddle the roasted jalapeño in a shaker to release smoky oils.
- Add tequila, lime juice, agave nectar, orange liqueur, and ice.
- Shake hard for 15 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Rim the glass with Tajín or smoked salt if desired.