Name: Tamarind Vodka Cocktail
Prep time: 4 min
Ingredients: 1.5 oz vodka; 1 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 spoonful tamarind paste (about 1 tsp); 1 oz lemon juice; 5 mint leaves; Tajín powder (for rimming); Garnish: mint sprig and lemon wheel

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The Tamarind Vodka Cocktail brings a bold mix of tangy, sweet, and slightly savory flavors. Tamarind gives the drink a deep, tart edge that pairs well with the clean kick of vodka. A touch of lime or simple syrup can help balance things out, depending on how sour you like it. It’s a great option if you want something that stands out from the usual fruity cocktails. Earthy, smooth, and a little unexpected, this one’s perfect for sipping slowly and enjoying something different without going too far off the path.

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Tasting Notes

This Tamarind Vodka Cocktail is tangy, a little salty, and super refreshing. The tamarind paste gives it a bold, slightly sour kick that stands out right away. Lemon juice brightens everything and adds extra citrus zip. Sugar and salt balance the sharpness, while the mint adds a cool, fresh layer. Vodka keeps the drink smooth and clean, letting the tamarind and citrus shine. The Tajín rim adds a final punch with its salty, spicy edge. It’s a bold but easy-to-sip drink that hits all the flavor notes.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker, jigger, and a strainer. A small spoon helps you measure and mix the tamarind paste evenly. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the mint if you’d like to bring out more aroma. For rimming, a small plate and lime wedge help coat the glass with Tajín. Serve in a rocks glass for a strong, simple presentation that fits the drink’s bold flavors.

Ingredients

1.5 oz vodka
1 tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
1 spoonful tamarind paste (about 1 tsp)
1 oz lemon juice
5 mint leaves
Tajín powder, for rimming
Garnish: mint sprig and lemon wheel

Instructions

Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of a rocks glass and dip it into Tajín powder. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
In a shaker, combine vodka, tamarind paste, sugar, salt, lemon juice, and mint leaves. Muddle gently if desired to release mint flavor.
Add ice and shake vigorously until well chilled and the tamarind is fully dissolved.
Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.
Top with a sprig of mint and a lemon wheel.

Pro Tips

Use a smooth vodka to let the tamarind shine. Stir or mash the tamarind paste a bit before adding it blends easier that way.
Taste before serving; tamarind can be strong, so adjust the sugar or lemon juice to fit your taste.
Shake hard to dissolve the paste fully. Chill your glass in advance for a crisper drink.
If the tamarind is very thick, strain with a fine mesh to remove any pulp.

When to Serve

This Tamarind Vodka Cocktail is perfect for summer evenings, spicy food pairings, or anytime you want something bold and a little different. It’s great for cookouts, taco nights, or happy hour with friends. The tangy, salty profile makes it ideal before a meal or alongside snacks with chili or lime. It also stands out as a conversation starter when you’re looking to serve something off the beaten path.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Go with a clean, mid-range vodka like Tito’s, Smirnoff, or Ketel One—something smooth but neutral.
For tamarind paste, look for a concentrate without added sugar if you want full control of the flavor.
Use fresh lemon juice for brightness, and fresh mint for the best aroma.
Tajín is easy to find and gives the perfect rim for this drink, but you can also make your own chili-lime salt if needed.

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