This colorful cocktail is as fun to make as it is to drink! The Mexican Flag shot is a vibrant, layered drink that mirrors the colors of the Mexican flag—red, white, and green. Each layer brings a different flavor, from the sweet grenadine to the bold tequila and the refreshing lime juice. It’s a festive choice for celebrations like Mexican Independence Day or Cinco de Mayo, but honestly, it’s great anytime you want a drink that looks impressive and tastes delicious.
Mexican Flag
I’ve made this shot countless times, and the key to getting those perfect layers is pouring slowly—I’ll share my best tip for that below. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Makes 1 shot
You’ll need:
- 1 oz (30ml) grenadine – for the sweet red base
- 1 oz (30ml) tequila – smooth and bold
- 1 oz (30ml) lime juice – fresh and tart
Equipment:
- Shot glass – to show off the layers
- Bar spoon or teaspoon – for layering
How to Make a Mexican Flag Shot
- Pour the grenadine into the bottom of a shot glass. This is your base layer and will naturally settle at the bottom.
- Slowly add the tequila. Hold a spoon upside down just above the grenadine and gently pour the tequila over it. This helps keep the layers separate.
- Finish with lime juice. Use the same spoon technique to carefully add the lime juice on top.
Tip: If your layers start blending, try chilling the ingredients beforehand. Cold liquids layer more easily!
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
This shot is bold and balanced—sweet, tangy, and strong. It pairs well with:
- Tacos – The tequila’s bite cuts through rich, spicy fillings.
- Guacamole – The lime juice complements the fresh avocado.
- Churros – The sweet grenadine makes a great match for cinnamon-sugar flavors.
Variations & Customizations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few ways to tweak the classic:
- Spicy Mexican Flag: Add a drop of hot sauce to the lime juice for a fiery kick.
- Tropical Twist: Swap lime juice for pineapple juice and add a splash of coconut cream.
- Smoky Version: Use mezcal instead of tequila for a deep, smoky flavor.
Non-Alcoholic Version: Replace the tequila with coconut water or a white soda like Sprite, and use kiwi or melon juice for the green layer.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
Why are my layers mixing?
- Pour too fast? Try using a spoon to slow it down.
- Ingredients too warm? Chill them first for better separation.
Can I make this in a bigger glass?
- Yes! Just scale up the ingredients and serve in a small cocktail glass.
Is there a less sweet version?
- Use pomegranate juice instead of grenadine for a more tart red layer.
This has been my go-to party shot for years, and it’s always a hit! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to impress your friends, the Mexican Flag shot is a simple yet stunning choice. Enjoy!
