Southern Exposure Cocktail Recipe - Ingredients, Tips, and Variations

Southern Exposure Cocktail Recipe - Ingredients, Tips, and Variations

Calendar Icon March 20, 2025 User Icon by BarBot Team

Introduction

The Southern Exposure cocktail is a fiery and flavorful creation that promises to tantalize your taste buds. With its intriguing mix of jalapeño-infused tequila, mezcal, and red bell pepper puree, this drink captures the essence of Southern culinary flair in a glass. Perfect for those who appreciate a savory twist on traditional cocktails, the Southern Exposure is a bold choice that stands out with its vibrant colors and spicy notes.

Originating from the creative minds of mixologists who love to experiment with bold flavors, the Southern Exposure has quickly gained popularity for its unique profile. The cocktail's name evokes images of warm sunsets and spicy Southern cuisine, making it an ideal choice for adventurous drinkers. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cocktail is sure to impress with its complexity and depth.

One interesting tidbit about the Southern Exposure is its use of red bell pepper puree, which adds a subtle sweetness and a rich, earthy tone to the drink. Paired with the smoky mezcal and the heat from jalapeño-infused tequila, this cocktail is a celebration of contrasting flavors that come together harmoniously.

Ingredients

  • 1.5 oz Jalapeño-Infused Blanco Tequila
  • 0.5 oz Joven Mezcal
  • 0.5 oz Lime Juice
  • 0.5 oz Cane Sugar Syrup
  • 0.5 oz Red Bell Pepper Puree
  • 1 pinch Kosher Salt

To create the Southern Exposure, you'll need a selection of fresh and bold ingredients. Here's what you'll need to gather for this savory cocktail:

  • 1.5 oz Jalapeño-Infused Blanco Tequila: Infuse your tequila with fresh jalapeños to add a spicy kick that complements the other flavors.
  • 0.5 oz Joven Mezcal: Joven mezcal brings a smoky depth to the cocktail, balancing the heat from the jalapeño.
  • 0.5 oz Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for a bright, tangy contrast to the savory elements.
  • 0.5 oz Cane Sugar Syrup: Cane sugar syrup adds a touch of sweetness, smoothing out the cocktail's spicy notes.
  • 0.5 oz Red Bell Pepper Puree: Red bell pepper puree contributes a unique sweetness and earthy tone, making the drink stand out.
  • 1 pinch Kosher Salt: A pinch of kosher salt enhances the flavors and rounds off the cocktail perfectly.

Instructions

Crafting the Southern Exposure is straightforward with the right technique. Follow these steps to make this flavorful cocktail:

  1. Shake all the ingredients with ice, then strain into a coupe.

Tips

  • For an extra kick, consider leaving the seeds in your jalapeños when infusing the tequila.
  • Experiment with the amount of red bell pepper puree to adjust the sweetness and earthiness to your liking.
  • Chill your coupe glass in the freezer before serving to keep the cocktail refreshingly cold.
  • Garnish with a slice of jalapeño or a thin strip of red bell pepper for an eye-catching presentation.

Conclusion

The Southern Exposure cocktail is a delightful exploration of savory flavors, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their drinks. Its combination of jalapeño-infused tequila, smoky mezcal, and sweet red bell pepper makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just starting your mixology journey, this drink offers a unique experience that is sure to impress.

Ready to dive deeper into the world of cocktails? The BarBot app is your ultimate companion for discovering new recipes like the Southern Exposure and logging your tasting experiences. With features that let you rate, review, and share your creations, BarBot turns every cocktail into an adventure. Download the app today and start exploring a universe of flavors right from your home bar. Cheers to new discoveries!

Southern Exposure recipe adapted from Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails by David Kaplan, Nick Fauchald, and Alex Day.