This Smoked Tequila Gazpacho is a refreshing twist on the classic Spanish cold soup. It combines the bright acidity of ripe Roma tomatoes and crisp cucumbers with the earthy depth of roasted garlic and a distinctive smoky warmth from tequila. The addition of maple syrup balances the heat, while chicken glace adds a rich umami backbone to the vegetable juice base. Perfect for hot summer days, this vibrant dish serves as an elegant starter or a light meal. Garnished with crunchy fried tortilla strips and salty Cotija cheese, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that are both sophisticated and approachable.
Smoked Tequila Gazpacho
Description
This Smoked Tequila Gazpacho is a refreshing twist on the classic Spanish cold soup. It combines the bright acidity of ripe Roma tomatoes and crisp cucumbers with the earthy depth of roasted garlic and a distinctive smoky warmth from tequila. The addition of maple syrup balances the heat, while chicken glace adds a rich umami backbone to the vegetable juice base. Perfect for hot summer days, this vibrant dish serves as an elegant starter or a light meal. Garnished with crunchy fried tortilla strips and salty Cotija cheese, it offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors that are both sophisticated and approachable.Ingredients
Directions
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Dice the carrot and yellow squash, then blanch them briefly in boiling water until tender-crisp; drain well.
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Dice the seeded European cucumber, zucchini, and peeled, seeded Roma tomatoes.
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Roast the garlic cloves until soft, then puree them into a smooth paste.
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In a large bowl, combine the blanched carrot and squash with the diced cucumber, zucchini, tomatoes, and pureed garlic.
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Stir in the spicy cocktail vegetable juice, smoked tequila, maple syrup, and chicken glace.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
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Cut the blue, red, and yellow corn tortillas into thin strips and deep fry until crisp; drain on paper towels.
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To serve, ladle the chilled gazpacho into bowls and top with the fried tortilla strips and crumbled Cotija cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 20.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.1g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 17.5mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 5.0g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1.1g5%
- Sugars 3.3g
- Protein 0.5g1%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Ensure the gazpacho is well-chilled before serving to achieve the best texture and flavor balance.
For a vegan version, omit the chicken glace and Cotija cheese; consider using a mushroom broth reduction instead of chicken glace for umami depth.
Smoked tequila adds a unique aroma; if unavailable, regular blanco tequila can be used with a pinch of smoked paprika.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add fresh garnishes just before serving.
