A Tequila Sour is a refreshing, citrusy cocktail with just the right balance of tart and sweet. It’s a fun twist on the classic Sour cocktail, swapping whiskey for tequila to give it a bold, slightly peppery kick. If you love drinks that are smooth, zesty, and a little frothy on top, this one’s for you!
Tequila Sour
I’ve made this cocktail countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way—like how shaking it just right gives you that perfect silky texture. Let’s get into it!
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) tequila (blanco works best, but reposado adds a nice depth)
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lemon juice (always fresh—bottled just won’t cut it)
- 0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup (adjust if you like it more or less sweet)
- 1 egg white (optional, but it gives the drink that signature frothy top)
- Ice cubes (for shaking and serving)
Glass: A rocks glass is traditional, but a coupe glass works beautifully if you’re skipping the ice.
Garnish: A cherry or an orange slice adds a nice finishing touch.
How to Make a Tequila Sour
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice to chill everything properly.
- Add the tequila, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- If you’re using egg white, do a dry shake first (shake without ice for about 15 seconds). This helps create that smooth, foamy texture.
- Add ice, then shake vigorously for another 15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice (or straight into a coupe glass if serving without ice).
- Garnish with a cherry or an orange slice, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Tequila Sour
- Fresh lemon juice is key. It makes all the difference in taste.
- Shake hard! This ensures the egg white (if using) gets nice and frothy.
- Balance the sweetness. If it’s too tart, add a little more syrup. Too sweet? Add an extra splash of lemon juice.
- Chill your glass beforehand. It keeps the drink colder for longer.
Variations & Twists
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun variations:
Mezcal Sour
- Swap tequila for mezcal for a smokier version.
- Garnish with a lime wheel for an earthy touch.
Spicy Tequila Sour
- Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker before mixing.
- Muddle it gently to release the heat.
Tequila Gold Sour
- Use gold tequila instead of blanco.
- Add a splash of orange liqueur for extra citrusy depth.
For a non-alcoholic version, mix fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and a splash of soda water—still refreshing without the tequila.
Food Pairings
A Tequila Sour pairs well with:
- Spicy tacos – The citrusy tang balances the heat perfectly.
- Grilled chicken – The smoky charred flavors play well with the tequila’s warmth.
- Chocolate desserts – The acidity cuts through the richness, making for a surprisingly good match.
Common Questions
Can I make a Tequila Sour without egg white?
Yes! The egg white just adds texture, but you can skip it for a simpler version.
What’s the best tequila for this?
A good blanco tequila works best, but a reposado adds a richer, slightly oaky flavor.
How do I make it less sweet?
Use a little less simple syrup or add an extra splash of lemon juice to balance it out.
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Absolutely! Mix everything in a pitcher (without ice) and pour over ice when serving.
Why shake so hard?
It chills the drink and, if using egg white, creates that smooth, foamy top.
How long does it take to make?
Just a couple of minutes! It’s quick, easy, and always a crowd-pleaser.
A Tequila Sour is one of those cocktails that feels fancy but is super simple to make. Once you get the hang of it, you can tweak it to your taste and impress your friends with your bartending skills. Cheers! 🍹
