Vermilion Smoke
A sip of fire and fruit, kissed with smoke.
Vermilion Smoke

About this Recipe


The Vermilion Smoke is Shana Vanbebber’s original cocktail, a vibrant balance of smoky, citrusy, and fruity notes. It celebrates Southwestern flavors with a twist, combining tequila, pomegranate, lime, and a whisper of smoke. This recipe comes from her conversation with Dr. Jenn Seasly on Foodlore. For more culinary storytelling, visit the Hatch Green Chile Stew episode.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz tequila

  • 2 oz fresh squeezed pomegranate juice

  • 1 oz fresh lime juice

  • ½ oz Orange Agavero (or orange liqueur)

  • ½ oz smoked simple syrup

  • Salt (for rim)

  • Ice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glass: Lightly moisten the rim of a cocktail glass with lime juice, then dip into salt to coat.

  2. Mix the cocktail: In a shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, pomegranate juice, lime juice, Orange Agavero, and smoked simple syrup.

  3. Shake well: Shake vigorously until well chilled.

  4. Serve: Strain into the prepared glass over fresh ice.

  5. Garnish (optional): Add a lime wheel or a few pomegranate seeds for color.

Recipe Notes

If you don’t have smoked simple syrup, you can make your own by infusing simple syrup with a drop of liquid smoke or by simmering sugar water with smoked wood chips for a natural smoky essence.