Tequila shots are a popular way to consume tequila. To take a shot of tequila, you need salt, lime, and tequila. The traditional way to take a shot of tequila is to lick the salt off your hand, drink the shot swiftly, and finish by sucking on a wedge of lime.
This method is a hit at parties and with tourists in Mexico, but it does contradict what tequila connoisseurs recommend—that you should savor the taste and aroma slowly when drinking straight tequila, particularly the good stuff.
However, enjoying a tequila shot this way adds a bit of fun to a gathering and can help temper the astringency of the alcohol.
How Many Calories in a Shot of Tequila?
One shot of tequila contains between 69 to 100 calories, making it a relatively low-cal alcoholic beverage. However, adding mixers or sweeteners can significantly raise its caloric count.
As with all forms of alcohol consumption, remembering how alcohol can lead to weight gain should always be kept in mind and recommended in moderation.
Verywellfit.com and thrillist.com write that, a shot of tequila contains approximately 64-98 calories, depending on the brand and proof of the tequila.
Then a shot of silver or blanco tequila contains around 98 calories, while a shot of reposado (aged for two months in wood barrels) tequila contains about 103 calories.
The USDA states that a standard measure of tequila has 97 kcal per standard 1.5 fl oz shot. Tequila is a low-fat alcoholic beverage but has a significant calorie content due to its high alcohol concentration.
It is important to remember that while tequila itself does not contain any nutritional value, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.
For an enjoyable tequila drink without all the extra calories, consider sipping on vodka and soda or gin and tonic instead of beer. Both contain less than 100 calories per serving compared to beer’s 250.
Additionally, tequila’s composition from agave provides some nutritional benefits not present elsewhere alcoholic beverages – so go ahead and take that delicious shot without feeling guilty!
What Are Some Popular Tequila Brands for Taking Shots?
There are several popular tequila brands for taking shots. Some of the best brands of tequila to use when taking shots include Patron Silver, Casamigos Blanco, Sauza, and Don Julio Blanco.
These brands are known for their smooth taste and quality, making them a great choice for those who enjoy taking tequila shots.
However, it’s important to remember that the best tequila for you is the one that you enjoy on its own, so it’s always a good idea to try different brands and find the one that suits your taste buds.
How to Make a Tequila Shot Less Harsh
To make a tequila shot less harsh, you can use a chaser or a mixer. A chaser is usually a lemon or lime wedge that is used to cut the taste of the liquor. You can also use a mixer like pineapple juice to cut the taste of the liquor.
Another way to make a tequila shot less harsh is to choose a higher quality tequila. Keep in mind that the higher the quality, the more it is made for sipping, not shooting.
If you want to try a different type of tequila shot, you can make a Mexican Candy Shot. This shot is a delicious combination of spicy, salty, and sweet flavors that go great with any Blanco tequila.
To make it, start by rimming a shot glass with Tajin, a popular Mexican seasoning. Then, in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine 1 oz of tequila, ½ oz watermelon (or other fruit-flavored) liqueur, and ½ oz lime juice.
Shake well and strain into the shot glass. Enjoy the shot by licking the Tajin off the rim, drinking the shot, and biting into a slice of watermelon.
What Are Some Alternative Ways to Drink Tequila Besides Shots?
There are several alternative ways to drink tequila besides shots. One way is to sip it neat, which is preferred by some tequila connoisseurs.
Blanco tequila is a popular choice for sipping, and it can be enjoyed alongside a lager or mineral water.
Another way to enjoy tequila is in a mixed drink, such as a Margarita or Paloma. For those who prefer more unique mixed drinks, a tequila Negroni or a highball with mineral water and lime are great options.
If you are looking for a non-alcoholic option, there are non-alcoholic tequila alternatives available that can be used in non-alcoholic Palomas and margaritas.
These alternatives can be found online through Amazon, alcohol-free marketplace Better Rhodes, or manufacturers’ own websites.
How Does the Calorie Count of Tequila Compare to Other Types of Liquor
Tequila generally has fewer calories than other types of liquor such as vodka, gin, and whiskey. A standard shot of tequila, measured at 1.5 ounces of liquid, has about 64-105 calories, depending on the source.
In comparison, a standard shot of vodka has around 96 calories on average. However, it’s important to note that the calorie content of any alcoholic beverage will depend on the alcohol proof and the size of the serving.
Additionally, the calorie count of tequila-based drinks may vary depending on the other ingredients used, such as juices, syrups, and other mixers that contain calories and carbohydrates.
Therefore, it’s important to consume alcohol in moderation and be mindful of the calorie content of your drinks.
