Mexican Firing Squad is a classic cocktail with a balanced combination of tequila, lime juice and grenadine. It offers a strong yet fresh drink, slightly sweet, with lively acidity and characterized by a touch of bitters.
The Mexican Firing Squad is a classic tequila cocktail that originated at the famous La Cucaracha Bar in Mexico City in the mid-20th century. Although the name of the cocktail sounds quite dramatic, it is actually an ironic name referring to the cheerful and energetic atmosphere of the bar.
In the 1930s and 1940s, Mexico City became a very popular city for journalists, artists and adventurous travelers. La Cucaracha Bar was one of the meeting points for this international crowd. Rumor has it that this cocktail was frequently ordered by American journalists who were regulars at the bar, and over time it became one of the bar's signature drinks.
“Life is sometimes harsh, but when you find the right balance, it tastes completely different”
The Mexican Firing Squad has a similar structure to the Margarita but with a deeper character. Lime juice gives the cocktail a lively acidity, while the grenadine adds a subtle sweetness and color. Angostura bitters add a spicy and aromatic touch to the drink, making this cocktail of simple ingredients very balanced.
Today, the Mexican Firing Squad is one of the lesser known of the classic tequila cocktails, but one of the recipes rediscovered by bartenders. Its balanced structure, vibrant color and strong character are making it popular again on modern bar menus.
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Ingredients
Unit System
60 mlTequila
30 mlFresh Lime Juice
15 mlGrenadine
2 DashAngostura Bitters
·Ice
Limewedge or cocktail cherry (garnish)
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Method
1
Add tequila, lime juice, grenadine and bitters to the shaker.
2
Shake vigorously with ice.
3
Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass.
4
Garnish with a lime wedge or cocktail cherry and serve.
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Bartender Tips
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Using Blanco tequila emphasizes the fresh character of the cocktail.
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Using real pomegranate syrup (grenadine) makes the flavor much richer.
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Fresh lime juice is the most important ingredient that determines the balance of the cocktail.
Rosita is an aromatic and powerful classic cocktail made with tequila, vermouth and Campari. It is similar to the Negroni family, but the use of tequila gives the drink a warmer and more characterful profile.
