Guaro Sour is one of Costa Rica’s most beloved cocktails—light, citrusy, and just the right balance of sweet and tart. Made with guaro, a sugarcane-based spirit, this drink is smooth, refreshing, and perfect for warm days. If you’ve never tried guaro before, think of it as a softer, slightly sweeter cousin of rum or vodka.
Guaro Sour
I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s a tip I learned while perfecting the recipe: always use fresh lime juice. It makes all the difference in getting that bright, zesty kick.
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60 ml) guaro
- 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
- 1 oz (30 ml) simple syrup
- Ice (enough to fill your shaker and glass)
- 2 dashes of bitters
- Lime slice (for garnish)
How to Make a Guaro Sour
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the guaro, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill and mix everything well.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Add 2 dashes of bitters on top.
- Garnish with a lime slice.
That’s it! Simple, quick, and packed with flavor.
Tips for the Best Guaro Sour
- Shake it well! This helps blend the flavors and chills the drink properly.
- Use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice won’t give you the same bright, tangy flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness. If you like a tarter drink, use a little less simple syrup.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to mix things up? Try these:
- No guaro? Swap it for vodka for a slightly different but still smooth cocktail.
- Prefer a different citrus? Lemon juice works well, though it gives a slightly softer acidity.
- Natural sweetener option? Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup for a more subtle sweetness.
Make-Ahead & Storage
If you’re making this for a party, you can mix the guaro, lime juice, and simple syrup ahead of time and keep it chilled in the fridge. Just shake with ice right before serving.
What to Serve with a Guaro Sour
A Guaro Sour pairs beautifully with:
- Ceviche – The bright, citrusy notes of both the drink and the dish complement each other perfectly.
- Grilled chicken – A simple, lightly seasoned grilled chicken dish balances the cocktail’s sweetness.
- Plantain chips – Their crispy, slightly sweet flavor works well with the smoothness of the guaro.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights—it’s crisp, refreshing, and so easy to make. If you’ve never had a Guaro Sour before, now’s the perfect time to give it a try. Cheers! 🍹
