The Rhythm And The Rhyme Recipe

Make a quick tincture

Thinly slice or finely dice 1/4 habanero (remove seeds if you want less heat). Place the pieces in a small jar or shot glass and cover with 1 tablespoon neutral spirit or tequila. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, then strain through a fine mesh or coffee filter into a small container. Reserve tincture. Taste carefully and add more time if you want stronger heat. Use sparingly (recipe calls for 3–5 drops equivalent).

Prepare glass

If you want a rim, rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks or coupe glass and dip into coarse salt or chili-salt. Set glass aside and chill briefly.

Combine ingredients

In a cocktail shaker, add 1.5 oz tequila blanco, 0.5 oz mezcal, 1 oz passionfruit purée (or juice), 0.75 oz fresh lime juice, and 0.5 oz agave syrup. Add 3–5 drops of the habanero tincture (start with 3; you can add more after tasting).

Shake

Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 12–15 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted.

Strain & serve

Double strain (through a julep or fine mesh strainer) into the chilled prepared glass over fresh ice (or serve neat in a coupe).

Finish

Spoon or float about 1/2 of a passionfruit half's seeds/pulp on top for texture and aroma. Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge. Taste and, if you want more heat, add 1–2 additional drops of tincture and gently stir.

Habanero oils are potent. Use the tincture method to control heat. If you accidentally add too much heat, balance with a little more agave (0.25–0.5 oz) or additional lime juice. Discard any unused fresh habanero after infusion and wash hands thoroughly after handling chiles.