El Pepino

A variation on the traditional margarita, El Pepino, or "the cucumber" in Spanish, is made with tequila, lime juice, and a sweetener (usually triple sec or agave nectar). But the Pepino has become a cocktail unto itself, a variation on which innumerable experts and amateur bartenders have also riffed, each adding components to elevate the drink above a straightforward margarita with muddled cucumber.

Discover the Refreshing Pepino Cocktail: A Trendy Twist on the Classic Margarita

In the world of cocktails, few drinks have captured the attention of enthusiasts quite like the Pepino. This vibrant cocktail gained mainstream popularity in 2012, thanks in part to singer and actor Justin Timberlake, who mentioned it as his favorite drink during an interview with Bon Appétit. According to rumors, Timberlake's version was influenced by bartender Junior Merino and features a delicious combination of pineapple, lime juice, tequila, and cucumber with a dash of Grand Marnier for sweetness. Gaston Martinez, a bartender from Las Vegas, is another noteworthy example. He chose a herbaceous twist by adding egg white and cilantro for texture.

The Origins of the Pepino Cocktail

Despite its intriguing backstory, the exact origins of the Pepino Cocktail remain somewhat elusive. While many variations exist, it's likely that no single individual can be credited with its creation. The essence of the Pepino lies in its ability to combine classic Margarita components with refreshing elements, making it a favorite among cocktail aficionados.

A Classic Recipe for the Pepino Cocktail

This recipe focuses on a more traditional approach, omitting pineapple juice to preserve the drink’s acidic balance and allowing the fresh ingredients to shine. It utilizes agave nectar instead of orange liqueur, reflecting the style of Tommy’s Margarita. A kick of jalapeño adds depth, enhancing the refreshing qualities of cucumber while maintaining balance.

Why the Pepino Cocktail Works

The Pepino Cocktail stands out due to its harmonious blend of classic Margarita elements: spirit, sweetness, and citrus. By using agave nectar—a natural sweetener derived from the same plant as tequila—it beautifully complements the agave-based spirit, enhancing both its citrus and earthy notes.

The combination of fresh lime juice and agave nectar creates a nuanced flavor profile that distinguishes it from traditional Margaritas, which often rely heavily on orange liqueur. Additionally, the muddled cucumber paired with jalapeño introduces a classic interplay of cooling and spicy elements, making it adaptable to individual taste preferences.

The spicy-salty rim, achieved with Tajín or chili-salt, elevates the cocktail experience by stimulating the taste buds with each sip, ensuring that the Pepino remains refreshing and engaging until the very last drop.

Ingredients

• 2 cucumber wheels (1/4 inch thick)
• 2 fresh jalapeño wheels (1/4 inch thick)
• 1 1/2 ounces blanco tequila
• 3/4 ounce agave syrup (see recipe below)
• 1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• Garnish: Chili-salt rim (or Tajín) and a cucumber slice

Agave Syrup Recipe

• Mix equal parts agave nectar and warm water until well combined.

Steps to Make the Pepino Cocktail

1. Muddle Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker, add the cucumber wheels, jalapeño wheels, and blanco tequila. Muddle the mixture for about 10 seconds until fully pulverized.
2. Add Sweetness and Citrus: Incorporate the agave syrup and freshly squeezed lime juice into the shaker.
3. Shake: Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled.
4. Strain: Double-strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a rocks glass that has been rimmed with Tajín, filled with fresh ice.
5. Garnish: Finish with a cucumber slice for a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

The Pepino Cocktail is not just a drink; it’s an experience that encapsulates the vibrant flavors of summer. Perfect for any occasion, it’s easy to see why this cocktail has captured the hearts of many. Whether you enjoy it by the pool or at a gathering with friends, the Pepino is sure to impress with its refreshing taste and delightful complexity.