What happens when you put tequila in iced tea? Something better than both of them separately. This version uses Blue Nectar Silver Tequila shaken with lemon juice, bell pepper juice, brewed tea, agave syrup, and a dash of hot chili oil. The bell pepper gives it a vegetal sweetness. The chili oil gives it a slow burn at the back of your throat. The tea ties it together into something that drinks like iced tea but hits like a cocktail.
Two parts tequila to one part each of the other components, shaken or stirred with ice and strained. It is a warm-weather drink that hides its strength behind the tea and citrus. Pretty damn addictive once you’ve had one.
How to Make Iced Teaquila
Brew the Tea First
Brew a cup of your preferred tea and let it cool completely. Black tea works well. Green tea is lighter. The tea should be strong since it gets diluted by ice. Brew double-strength and chill. 
Shake with Ice
Combine the tequila, lemon juice, bell pepper juice, cooled tea, agave syrup, and a dash of hot chili oil in a shaker with ice. Shake or stir until chilled. Strain into a glass or pitcher over fresh ice.
The chili oil is a dash, not a pour. Start with less than you think. It intensifies as the drink sits. You can always add more.
Iced Teaquila
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 1
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A refreshing twist on tequila, this iced tea cocktail blends the smooth spirit with bright citrus and subtly sweet tea. Perfect for a warm afternoon.
Ingredients
- 2 parts (2 parts) Blue Nectar Silver Tequila
- 1 part (1 part) lemon juice
- 1 part (1 part) bell pepper juice
- 1 part (1 part) tea
- 1 part (1 part) agave simple syrup
- Dash hot chili oil
- Ice
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients with ice; shake or stir until chilled.
- Strain into a fresh glass or pitcher and serve with ice.
Notes
- For a smokier flavor, use reposado tequila instead of blanco.
- If bell pepper juice is unavailable, substitute with a high-quality green juice or a few drops of bell pepper extract.
- Store leftover cocktail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; stir before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 25
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bell pepper juice?
Juice extracted from fresh bell peppers, usually green or red. Blend a bell pepper with a little water and strain. It tastes mildly sweet and vegetal. About 30ml per drink.
What tea works best?
Black tea like English Breakfast or Earl Grey gives the most body. Green tea makes a lighter drink. Brew strong since it gets diluted. Herbal teas can work but may compete with the bell pepper and chili.
Can I skip the chili oil?
You can, but the drink loses the heat that makes it interesting. The chili oil is a tiny amount, just a dash, and it provides a slow burn underneath the citrus and tea. Hot sauce is a rougher substitute.
