The El Diablo Cocktail Recipe
The El Diablo is a vibrant, tequila-based cocktail combining the bold flavors of crème de cassis and fresh lime juice, topped with effervescent ginger beer. It offers a refreshing balance of sweet, tart, and spicy notes, perfect for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make drink.
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Shaker Essential for proper chilling and emulsification of ingredients.
- 1 Jigger or Measuring Tools For precise measurement of spirits and liqueurs.
- 1 Citrus Juicer For freshly squeezed lime juice, crucial for balance.
- 1 Highball Glass The traditional serving vessel for this type of long drink.
- 1 Strainer To ensure a smooth, ice-free pour into the serving glass.
Ingredients
Main
- 1 1/2 ounces tequila
- 1/2 ounce crème de cassis
- 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
- 4 ounces ginger beer or ginger ale
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and chill your highball glass.
- Freshly squeeze 1/2 ounce of lime juice.
- Measure 1 1/2 ounces of tequila and 1/2 ounce of crème de cassis into a cocktail shaker.
- Add the 1/2 ounce of freshly squeezed lime juice to the shaker.
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Securely cap the shaker and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well-chilled.
- Fill your chilled highball glass with fresh ice cubes.
- Strain the contents of the shaker into the ice-filled highball glass.
- Top with 4 ounces of ginger beer or ginger ale, pouring gently to preserve carbonation.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or a fresh blackberry, and serve immediately.
Notes
The quality of your ingredients significantly impacts this cocktail. Always opt for freshly squeezed lime juice; pre-bottled alternatives lack the vibrant acidity. When selecting ginger beer, consider its spice level; a spicier variety will add more 'diablo' kick, while ginger ale offers a milder, sweeter profile. Crème de cassis should be a good quality brand for authentic blackcurrant notes. For an enhanced aroma and flavor, consider expressing a lime peel over the drink before discarding or using it as a garnish. Serve well-chilled, and taste before serving to adjust the balance of sweetness and tartness if needed. A blackberry garnish can beautifully complement the cassis and add visual appeal.