Ingredients
-
Cocktail:
-
2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye work best)
-
1 oz fresh pineapple juice
-
¾ oz fresh lemon juice
-
½ oz jalapeño simple syrup (see recipe below)
-
1 egg white (optional but recommended for foam)
-
Ice
-
Pineapple wedge and jalapeño slice, for garnish
Jalapeño Simple Syrup:
-
½ cup water
-
½ cup granulated sugar
-
1 small jalapeño, sliced (seeds in for heat, seeds out for milder flavor)
-
Instructions
1. Make the Jalapeño Simple Syrup:
-
In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup water and ½ cup sugar over medium heat.
-
Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
-
Add sliced jalapeño and simmer for 3–5 minutes. The longer it simmers, the spicier it gets.
-
Remove from heat and let it steep for 10–15 minutes.
-
Strain out the jalapeño slices and let the syrup cool.
-
Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
2. Prepare the Cocktail:
-
Add 2 oz whiskey, 1 oz pineapple juice, ¾ oz lemon juice, ½ oz jalapeño syrup, and egg white (if using) to a cocktail shaker.
3. Dry Shake:
-
If using egg white, dry shake (without ice) vigorously for 10–15 seconds to emulsify the ingredients and create that signature foam.
4. Shake with Ice:
-
Add ice and shake again for 15–20 seconds until well chilled.
5. Strain and Serve:
-
Double strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
-
Garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge and a thin jalapeño slice on the rim or floated atop the foam.
Notes
-
Prep the Jalapeño Syrup in Advance: Make a batch and store it in the fridge. It lasts up to 2 weeks and can be used in other cocktails like spicy margaritas.
-
Juice Storage: Fresh lemon juice can be squeezed and stored for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Pineapple juice is best used same-day but can last 24 hours refrigerated.
-
Egg Whites: If prepping for a party, use pasteurized liquid egg whites from a carton to save time and ensure safety.
Seasonal Adaptations:
-
Summer Twist: Add muddled basil or mint for a herbaceous layer that complements the pineapple.
-
Autumn Warmth: Use smoked bourbon and add a pinch of cinnamon or clove for a cozy, fall vibe.
-
Winter Sparkle: Top with a splash of ginger beer for a spicy-sweet fizzy finish.
-
Spring Bloom: Infuse the syrup with hibiscus petals along with jalapeño for floral-spicy notes and a gorgeous pink hue.