Tequila Matador Cocktail Drink

Tequila Matador

A shot of Gavin Wrigley looking to the camera in a dimly lit room
Written by Gavin Wrigley
Andrea
Tested by
Andrea Ottaiano

Craving a lively cocktail? You need this Tequila Matador Cocktail recipe! It’s a fun drink, full of tasty ingredients, and you can easily make it.

Tequila Matador Recipe

Warm up your winter with our straightforward Tequila Matador cocktail recipe! The mix of Tequila, pineapple juice, and lime juice creates a drink that's perfect for combating the cold.

Prep time:

1 minute

Mixing time:

1 minute

Servings:

1

Calories:

124 kl

Ingredients

  • 1½ oz Tequila
  • ½ oz pineapple juice
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Pineapple slice or twist, for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Strainer & Fine-strainer
  • Martini Glass

Instructions

  • Chill your martini glass.
  • Squeeze into the shaker ½ oz lime juice.
  • Add ½ oz pineapple juice.
  • Pour in 1½ oz Tequila.
  • Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake it all together vigorously.
  • Fine strain the mixture into a martini glass.
  • Garnish with a pineapple slice or twist.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Tequila: If you don't have Tequila on hand, you can use white rum as a substitute. It won't have the same flavor as Tequila, but it will still work well with the pineapple and lime juices.
  • Pineapple Juice: If you're out of pineapple juice, use mango or orange juice instead. Both will give your cocktail a tropical feel, although the flavor profile will differ slightly.
  • Lime Juice: Lemon juice can be used instead of lime juice if necessary. It's a bit sweeter and less tart than lime, but it will still add a nice citrusy kick to your cocktail.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 12 oz of Tequila, 12 oz of pineapple juice, and 4 oz of lime juice.
  • Mix: Combine the Tequila, pineapple, and lime juice in a large pitcher with ice cubes. Stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into chilled martini glasses, garnish with a pineapple slice or twist, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Tequila Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic tequila substitute; these are available and do an excellent job of mimicking Tequila's smoky flavor.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use this non-alcoholic substitute instead of the regular Tequila, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version of the Matador cocktail.

Making it Vegan:

  • Check Your Ingredients: Most of the ingredients in this cocktail are naturally vegan. However, some brands of Tequila use animal products during processing. Make sure to use a vegan-friendly brand.
  • Proceed As Usual: After ensuring all your ingredients are vegan, follow the original steps to make your vegan Matador cocktail.

Nutrition Facts

Calories
124
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
0.1
g
0
%
Sodium
 
2
mg
0
%
Carbohydrates
 
7
g
2
%
Fiber
 
0.1
g
0
%
Sugar
 
4
g
4
%
Potassium
 
73
mg
2
%
Protein
 
0.2
g
0
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
 
0.02
g
Monounsaturated Fat
 
0.01
g
Vitamin A
 
9
IU
0
%
Vitamin C
 
9
mg
11
%
Calcium
 
8
mg
1
%
Iron
 
0.2
mg
1
%

 

Tequila Matador Cocktail Drink

Tequila Matador Recipe

Gavin Wrigley Written by Gavin Wrigley
Jump to Video
Warm up your winter with our straightforward Tequila Matador cocktail recipe! The mix of Tequila, pineapple juice, and lime juice creates a drink that's perfect for combating the cold.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 124

Ingredients
 

  • 1½ oz Tequila
  • ½ oz pineapple juice
  • ½ oz lime juice
  • Ice cubes
  • Pineapple slice or twist - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail Shaker
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Strainer & Fine-strainer
  • Martini Glass

Instructions

  • Chill your martini glass.
  • Squeeze into the shaker ½ oz lime juice.
  • Add ½ oz pineapple juice.
  • Pour in 1½ oz Tequila.
  • Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Shake it all together vigorously.
  • Fine strain the mixture into a martini glass.
  • Garnish with a pineapple slice or twist.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Tequila: If you don't have Tequila on hand, you can use white rum as a substitute. It won't have the same flavor as Tequila, but it will still work well with the pineapple and lime juices.
  • Pineapple Juice: If you're out of pineapple juice, use mango or orange juice instead. Both will give your cocktail a tropical feel, although the flavor profile will differ slightly.
  • Lime Juice: Lemon juice can be used instead of lime juice if necessary. It's a bit sweeter and less tart than lime, but it will still add a nice citrusy kick to your cocktail.

Making a Pitcher:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. That would be 12 oz of Tequila, 12 oz of pineapple juice, and 4 oz of lime juice.
  • Mix: Combine the Tequila, pineapple, and lime juice in a large pitcher with ice cubes. Stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into chilled martini glasses, garnish with a pineapple slice or twist, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Tequila Substitute: Use a non-alcoholic tequila substitute; these are available and do an excellent job of mimicking Tequila's smoky flavor.
  • Proceed As Usual: Use this non-alcoholic substitute instead of the regular Tequila, follow the original steps, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version of the Matador cocktail.

Making it Vegan:

  • Check Your Ingredients: Most of the ingredients in this cocktail are naturally vegan. However, some brands of Tequila use animal products during processing. Make sure to use a vegan-friendly brand.
  • Proceed As Usual: After ensuring all your ingredients are vegan, follow the original steps to make your vegan Matador cocktail.

What is a Tequila Matador?

A Tequila Matador Cocktail is a tequila-based mixed drink made of Tequila, pineapple, and lime juice. It’s easy to make as it only requires three ingredients and simple mixing techniques. The Tequila Matador Cocktail is a variant of the classic Margarita, but instead of using orange liqueur, it uses pineapple juice for a tropical twist. One exciting thing about this cocktail is that despite its simplicity, the combination of flavors results in a complex and refreshing beverage that can be enjoyed on any occasion.

A side shot of a Tequila Matador cocktail in a martini glass on a white coaster placed on a wooden tray surounded by two pineapples, two limes, lime wedges,and pineapple slices.

What is a Tequila Matador made of – The ingredients

The following ingredients are necessary for a Tequila Matador Cocktail:

  • Tequila: The primary spirit in the cocktail, it provides a strong, robust base.
  • Pineapple Juice: Adds a tropical sweetness and acidity to balance the Tequila.
  • Lime Juice: Contributes a tart freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
  • Ice Cubes: Chills the drink, making it more refreshing.

Tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, two limes and two pineapple pieces laid out on a white bar table

How do you make a Matador Cocktail?

Follow our simple guide and learn how to make your own Matador Cocktail:

1
<p>Start by filling a martini glass with ice. This will ensure that your Tequila Matador cocktail is served perfectly.</p>

Start by filling a martini glass with ice. This will ensure that your Tequila Matador cocktail is served perfectly.

2
<p>Squeeze in a shaker the juice of half a lime. The lime juice will add a refreshing citrus note to your cocktail.</p>

Squeeze in a shaker the juice of half a lime. The lime juice will add a refreshing citrus note to your cocktail.

3
<p>Add 1 ounce of pineapple juice to the shaker. This will give your Matador cocktail a sweet and tangy twist.</p>

Add 1 ounce of pineapple juice to the shaker. This will give your Matador cocktail a sweet and tangy twist.

4
<p>Pour 2 ounces of Tequila into the shaker. Choose a high-quality tequila for the best flavor.</p>

Pour 2 ounces of Tequila into the shaker. Choose a high-quality tequila for the best flavor.

5
<p>Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes.</p>

Fill your cocktail shaker with ice cubes.

6
<p>Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. This will mix all the ingredients and chill the cocktail.</p>

Secure the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 20 seconds. This will mix all the ingredients and chill the cocktail.

7
<p>Fine strain the cocktail into a chilled glass. This will remove the ice and any pulp from the lime, leaving you with a smooth and delicious Matador cocktail.</p>

Fine strain the cocktail into a chilled glass. This will remove the ice and any pulp from the lime, leaving you with a smooth and delicious Matador cocktail.

8
<p>Garnish the cocktail with a slice of pineapple or a lime wheel. This will add a touch of elegance to your cocktail and enhance its tropical flavor.</p>

Garnish the cocktail with a slice of pineapple or a lime wheel. This will add a touch of elegance to your cocktail and enhance its tropical flavor.

Tequila Matador Variations

Interested in other alternatives? These are some favorites we suggest:

  • Spicy Matador: This introduces jalapeño to the classic base of tequila, pineapple juice, and lime juice. The jalapeño brings a vibrant heat that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pineapple. I really enjoy the burst of spicy flavor in this one; it adds an exciting kick that makes every sip thrilling.
  • Smoky Matador: This replaces the traditional tequila with mezcal, introducing a smoky depth that transforms the entire experience. The smokiness of the mezcal pairs exquisitely with the bright acidity of the lime and the tropical notes of the pineapple. The smoky character is what I appreciate most about this; it lends a rustic complexity that deepens the flavors.
  • Matador Royale: This elevates the standard mix by topping it with sparkling wine, adding a festive and fizzy finish. The sparkling wine introduces an effervescent texture and a slight dryness, which balances the sweet and tangy profile of the underlying mixture. I’m particularly fond of the elegant touch the sparkling wine adds; it feels festive and perfect for special occasions.

A Tequila Matador cocktail, shot from above, in a martini glass on a beige surface surrounded by Tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice and three pineapple pieces

History and Origin of the Tequila Matador

The Tequila Matador Cocktail, a delightful blend of Tequila, pineapple, and lime juice, has an intriguing history that’s as vibrant as its taste.

Tequila, the heart of the Matador Cocktail, hails from Tequila in Jalisco, Mexico. This spirit is made from the blue agave plant and has been a staple in Mexican culture for centuries. It was only natural that inventive bartenders would experiment with this local spirit, creating various cocktails, including the Matador.

The Tequila Matador likely emerged during the mid-20th century when tequila-based cocktails started gaining popularity beyond Mexico’s borders. This was when many classic cocktails were born, and bartenders were eager to introduce new flavors to their patrons. The drink is featured in ‘Trader Vic’s Bartender’s guide’ from 1972. The name ‘Matador’ translates to ‘bullfighter’ in Spanish. While there’s no definitive explanation for why this name was chosen for the cocktail, some speculate it might be due to the drink’s bold flavor profile, which could be likened to the bravery and flamboyance of a bullfighter.

The Tequila Matador Cocktail has carved out its niche in mixed drinks. Its unique combination of sweet pineapple, tart lime, and robust Tequila offers a refreshing twist on more traditional tequila cocktails like the Margarita.

Today, you can find variations of the Tequila Matador Cocktail being served in bars around the globe. Some versions add a splash of orange liqueur or garnish with fresh mint leaves for an extra layer of complexity. Regardless of these tweaks, the essence of the original Matador remains – a testament to its enduring appeal.

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FAQ

How many calories does a Matador cocktail contain?
A standard Matador cocktail contains approximately 200-250 calories. However, the exact number can vary depending on the specific brands of alcohol used and the size of the drink.
How strong is a Matador cocktail?
The strength of a Matador cocktail can vary based on the ingredient ratio. Typically, it has an Alcohol By Volume (ABV) of around 20-25%, translating to 40-50 proof. This makes it a moderately strong cocktail.
What type of alcohol is used in a Matador cocktail?
The primary alcohol in a Matador cocktail is Tequila, specifically silver or Blanco Tequila. It also includes pineapple and lime juice, with some recipes calling for a splash of triple sec.
In what kind of glass is a Matador cocktail served?
Traditionally, a Matador cocktail is served in a chilled martini or coupe glass to maintain its cool temperature and enhance its presentation.
What does a Matador cocktail taste like?
A Matador cocktail offers a refreshing blend of sweet and sour flavors. The Tequila provides an earthy base, the pineapple juice adds sweetness, and the lime juice contributes tartness. The overall taste is fruity, tangy, and slightly spicy.
What is the ratio of ingredients in a Matador cocktail?
The typical ratio for a Tequila Matador cocktail is 3 parts of tequila and pineapple juice to 1 part of lime juice. Some recipes may adjust these ratios slightly to suit personal taste preferences.
How is a Tequila Matador cocktail served with respect to ice?
A Tequila Matador cocktail is usually shaken with ice in a shaker to chill it before being strained into the serving glass. It is either served straight up or with crushed ice.
Can I make a Tequila Matador cocktail at home?
Absolutely! Making a Matador cocktail at home is simple as it requires only a few ingredients: Tequila, pineapple, and lime juice. You'll also need a shaker and a martini or coupe glass.
Is there any specific type of Tequila recommended for a Tequila Matador cocktail?
While any type of Tequila can be used in a Matador cocktail, silver or blanco, tequilas are often recommended due to their clean, crisp flavor that pairs well with the fruity elements of the drink.
What is the origin of the Tequila Matador cocktail?
The Tequila Matador cocktail is featured in ‘Trader Vic’s Bartender’s guide’ from 1972.The exact origin of the Tequila Matador cocktail is unclear, but it's believed to have been popular in the mid-20th century.

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