Ingredients:
- 2 oz Mezcalum (Espadin or Cuishe, whichever tickles your fancy!)
- 4-5 chunks of fresh pineapple (about 1 inch each)
- 1/4 inch slice of fresh habanero pepper (remove seeds for less heat, but where's the fun in that?)
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/4 - 1/2 oz agave nectar (adjust to your preferred sweetness)
- A few sprigs of fresh mint
- Ice
- Pineapple wedge and/or a thin slice of habanero for garnish (optional)
Let's Get Smashing! The Step-by-Step Guide:
- Muddle Time! In a sturdy cocktail shaker, gently muddle the pineapple chunks and the habanero slice. You want to release their juices and oils, but don't pulverize them. A few firm presses should do the trick.
- Minty Freshness: Add the mint sprigs to the shaker. Gently muddle them as well – just enough to release their aroma. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can make the mint taste bitter.
- Liquid Gold: Pour in the Mezcalum, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar into the shaker.
- Ice, Ice Baby: Fill the shaker with ice.
- Shake It Up! Close the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, until the shaker is well-chilled.
- Double Strain (Optional but Recommended): Double strain the mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with fresh ice. A double strain will help remove any small bits of pineapple or habanero for a smoother sip.
- Garnish & Enjoy! Garnish with a fresh pineapple wedge and/or a thin slice of habanero, if desired. Take a sip and prepare for a flavor explosion!