Spicy Rambutan Rum Smash

The Spicy Rambutan Rum Smash is a bold and tropical cocktail that fuses the exotic sweetness of rambutan with jalapeño heat and a zing of ginger. Balanced by lime simple syrup and powered by white rum and triple sec, it’s fruity, fiery, and full of personality.

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Tasting Notes

This Spicy Rambutan Rum Smash brings together sweet tropical fruit and spicy heat in a balanced, punchy drink. The juicy rambutan offers a light floral sweetness that pairs well with the subtle fire of jalapeño and the warm bite of fresh ginger. Lime simple syrup adds a tangy, citrus-driven brightness that lifts the drink without overpowering it. The white rum gives a smooth, clean base, while triple sec introduces a trace of orange to round out the flavor. It finishes with a refreshing, slightly spicy kick that lingers briefly and encourages another sip without overwhelming the palate.

Equipment and Glassware

To make this Spicy Rambutan Rum Smash, you’ll need a few bar basics: a shaker, a muddler, a jigger, and a fine mesh strainer. The muddler is key for breaking down the rambutans, jalapeños, and ginger to bring out their juice and oils. A mesh strainer helps keep any pulp or seeds out of the final pour. For serving, a standard rocks glass works best its wide mouth allows the aroma of the jalapeño and rambutan to come through. If you want to chill your glass beforehand, pop it in the freezer while you prep your ingredients.

Ingredients

• 4 peeled rambutans
• 2 jalapeño slices
• ⅛ tsp grated ginger
• 0.75 oz lime simple syrup
• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz triple sec
• Garnish: Rambutan and jalapeño slice

Instructions

• Fill a rocks glass with ice and set aside.
• In a shaker, muddle the rambutans, jalapeño slices, and grated ginger thoroughly to release the juices.
• Add ice, white rum, triple sec, and lime simple syrup to the shaker.
• Shake vigorously until well chilled.
• Strain into the prepared rocks glass.
• Garnish with a rambutan and a slice of jalapeño.

Pro Tips

• Use very ripe rambutans for best flavor and juice content.
• Keep some jalapeño seeds in if you prefer extra heat.
• Muddle ginger thoroughly to enhance its presence.
• Chill the rocks glass for 5–10 minutes before serving.
• Double strain to reduce fruit pulp in the glass.
• Lime simple syrup can be made ahead with equal parts sugar and lime juice.
• Adjust the amount of jalapeño depending on your spice preference.
• Use fresh lime juice in the syrup for better balance.
• Try clear ice for better presentation.
• Shake until the shaker feels very cold to the touch.

When to Serve

The Spicy Rambutan Rum Smash is well suited for warm-weather gatherings, poolside afternoons, and laid-back dinners with Southeast Asian or tropical dishes. Its mix of sweetness and heat makes it a good match for grilled meats, fresh seafood, or anything with chili or citrus. It also stands out at cocktail parties thanks to its eye-catching garnishes and bold flavor. This drink is especially good for those who enjoy something a little off the beaten path. Serve it before a meal or as a casual sipping option during an outdoor evening.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• White Rum
  • Plantation 3 Stars
  • Flor de Caña Extra Dry
  • Banks 5 Island Blend
• Triple Sec
  • Cointreau
  • Pierre Ferrand Dry Curaçao
  • Bols Triple Sec
• Optional
  • Make your own lime simple syrup using freshly squeezed lime juice and white sugar in a 1:1 ratio.

Similar Cocktails

• Guava Bay Breeze
• Spicy Sake Mango Punch
• Watermelon Raspberry Cooler
• Spicy Vodka Lemonade
• Lemon Rum Sour