Verde María: Bold Tequila Cucumber Jalapeño Cocktail

If y’all want to level up brunch, meet the Verde María. It is bold, refreshing and full of bright green flavor. This spicy tequila cocktail comes from our collaboration with @the.sauceress and shines with fresh produce and just the right amount of heat.

It is the ultimate tequila cucumber jalapeño cocktail. The savory kick from El Guapo Crawfish Boil Bitters seals the deal.

What is a Verde María?

Think of the Verde María as the green cousin of the Bloody Mary. Instead of a tomato base, you get tomatillos, cucumber and other crisp vegetables for a lighter and brighter sip. Our version leans even bolder with infused tequila, Ancho Verde and a generous hit of Crawfish Boil Bitters. The result is fresh, spicy and unforgettable.

The Ultimate Tequila Cucumber Jalapeño Cocktail Recipe

This drink comes together in two parts. First you make the Verde María Mix. Then you build the cocktail. The puréed vegetables create a rich base that stands up to tequila and spice.

Ingredients

Verde María Cocktail

• 1.5 oz Cucumber Jalapeño Tequila (@21seeds)
• 0.5 oz Ancho Verde (@anchoreyes)
• 4-6 oz Verde María Mix
• 6-8 Dashes El Guapo™ Crawfish Boil Bitters
• Squeeze of Lime

Verde María Mix

Makes ~2.5 Cups

• 1 lb green tomatillos, rinsed and quartered
  
• 1 stick celery
  
• 0.25 English Cucumber (≈ 3 oz)
• Green or Yellow Cherry Tomatoes (≈ 5 oz)
• Juice of 1 lime

To Add to Purée:

• 1 tbsp Olive Juice
• 1.5 tsp Horseradish
• 1 tsp White Balsamic Vinegar
• 1 tsp Green Tabasco (or other green hot sauce)
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Spicy Mustard
• 0.25 tsp White Pepper
• 0.125 tsp Celery Seed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Build the Cocktail

1. Blend the tomatillos, celery, cucumber, tomatoes and lime juice until smooth.
   
2. Strain the mixture but keep a little pulp for body.
   
3. Add the olive juice, horseradish, vinegar, hot sauce, salt, mustard, white pepper and celery seed. Stir well.

Build the Cocktail

1. Fill a glass with ice. Salt the rim if you love a salty edge.
   
2. Add the Cucumber Jalapeño Tequila and Ancho Verde.
   
3. Top with the Verde María Mix.
   
4. Finish with a squeeze of lime and a heavy dose of Crawfish Boil Bitters.

Savory Depth: Crawfish Boil Bitters in a Verde María

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo's homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best tequila for a spicy cocktail?

An infused tequila like 21 Seeds Cucumber Jalapeño gives predictable heat and clean flavor. A blanco tequila also works since it lets the spice shine.

What do Crawfish Boil Bitters taste like?

They are savory, spicy and earthy with notes of red pepper, garlic and classic Cajun seasoning. They transform any savory cocktail.

Can I make the Verde María Mix in advance?

Yes. Store it in an airtight container for up to a week. It is perfect for parties or a quick brunch cocktail anytime.