A flaming tequila shot is a popular party drink that involves lighting tequila on fire and drinking it while the flames are still burning. It’s a fun and theatrical way to take a shot that impresses onlookers. The tequila is ignited, causing flames to flicker over the surface of the drink momentarily before the shot is consumed. It provides a visual spectacle you don’t get with an ordinary shot of tequila. While certainly eye-catching, it does come with some risks due to the open flame. When done properly though, it can be an exciting drinking experience.
What is needed to make a flaming tequila shot?
There are only a few ingredients required to make a flaming tequila shot:
- Tequila – Typically a silver or blanco tequila. Avoid using high quality extra añejo tequila, as the aging and subtleties will be lost when burned.
- A shot glass
- A citrus wedge – Usually a lime wedge.
- Salt or sugar to rim the glass – Kosher or coarse salt is commonly used.
- A pouring device – Such as a jigger or shot dispenser.
- A lighter or matches to ignite the tequila.
That’s all you need to set tequila ablaze! The lime wedge and salt or sugar are optional extras to sip and suck after taking the shot, as you would with a traditional tequila shot. The citrus and salt enhance the flavor and experience.
How is a flaming tequila shot made?
Making a flaming tequila shot takes just a few easy steps:
- Fill a shot glass about 3/4 full with tequila. You don’t want to fill it all the way or it could spill when on fire.
- Optional: Rim the edge of the glass with salt or sugar if desired.
- Place a lime wedge on top of the glass or to the side for later.
- Hold a lighter or match just above the surface of the tequila and carefully ignite the liquid.
- Once lit, very gently tilt the glass slightly so the flame spreads across the surface but be careful not to spill it.
- Blow out the flame right before drinking if it is still burning, or drink it while the fire is still blazing – just be very careful!
- Sip the shot then suck on the lime wedge to finish.
It’s important to follow safety precautions when making flaming shots, which will be covered next. But in general, the basic steps involve filling a shot glass with tequila, igniting it with a flame, letting it burn briefly, then extinguishing and drinking the alcohol.
Flaming Shot Safety
While igniting tequila to make a flaming shot looks exciting, you do have to take proper safety precautions. Here are some key tips:
- Use caution when igniting the alcohol – keep hands and face at a safe distance from the flame.
- Make sure hair, clothing, and other flammable objects are away from the shot glass when igniting it.
- Light the shot quickly and tilt only very slightly to spread the flame. Large flames increase the risk of accidents.
- Never leave a burning shot unattended or walk around with it on fire.
- Extinguish the flames before drinking if they are still burning strongly.
- Don’t let the drink remain on fire for more than 5-10 seconds in most cases.
- Don’t make flaming shots if you’ve been drinking extensively or are otherwise impaired.
- Avoid making flaming shots in environments with flammable surroundings or little ventilation.
Follow those tips and exercise good judgment to enjoy flaming shots in the safest manner possible. Never force someone to take a flaming shot if they are hesitant or afraid. Making flaming shots should be an enjoyable, voluntary experience for everyone involved!
What alcohol can be used to make flaming shots?
While tequila may be the most common spirit used to make flaming shots, there are other alcohols that will ignite and can be used:
Tequila
As mentioned, silver or blanco tequila is the typical choice. The younger tequilas have a high alcohol content needed to sustain a flame.
Rum
Most spiced, light, or white rums will work well for flaming shots. The flavor pairs nicely with citrus.
Vodka
Many vodkas can be lit on fire at around 40% alcohol by volume (80 proof). Unflavored vodka is the best option.
Whiskey
While not as common, whiskeys like Jack Daniel’s will light and make an exciting flaming shot. Use less aged varieties.
Grain Alcohol
Very high proof grain alcohols above 90 proof ignite easily. Use safely and in moderation.
Brandy
Brandies around 40-45% ABV (80-90 proof) typically light well for flaming shots if desired.
Any distilled spirit with alcohol content over about 35-40% ABV can usually be lit on fire. Higher proofs ignite easier. Use caution with any flammable liquid.
Are flaming shots dangerous?
Flaming shots do carry more risk than regular shots when handled improperly. The dangers include:
- Burns – From igniting the shot too close to hands or accidentally spilling the drink when lit.
- Fire hazards – From leaving flaming shots unattended or igniting them near flammable objects.
- Injuries – From stumbling or distraction caused by the flame, especially after consuming other alcohol.
- Excessive drinking – From peer pressure to drink multiple flaming shots, leading to impairment and alcohol poisoning risk.
However, when basic safety rules are followed, flaming shots are generally safe to consume in moderation. Have water or other non-alcoholic beverages handy to stay hydrated as well. Never force or pressure anyone to take a flaming shot – it should be an individual choice.
What is the proper flaming shot drinking technique?
When drinking a flaming shot, follow these tips for best results:
- Extinguish the flame first before drinking if it is still strongly burning.
- Bring the shot glass carefully to your lips – don’t lower your head all the way to the glass.
- Sip gently to avoid spilling – don’t toss it back like a regular shot.
- Keep your face well above the glass as you sip in case any flames remain.
- Follow quickly with the lime wedge to put out any residual burning sensation.
- Suck the lime then set it aside – don’t hold it near your face/eyes as you drink.
- Salt your hand first, then take the shot, then suck the lime – doing it in this order minimizes risk.
Drinking flaming shots takes a bit more care compared to non-burning shots. Sip gently, keep the shot glass upright, and keep your face safely away from any flames. Extinguish first if strongly burning still.
Does flaming a shot affect the taste?
Lighting alcohol on fire does lead to some subtle changes in taste:
- Slightly burned, smoky flavor from charring on the alcohol’s surface.
- Boozy heat taste gets accentuated as alcohol burns off.
- Loss of some aromas and flavors as volatile compounds burn up.
- Bitter, unpleasant taste if the flame burns too long.
- More intense, concentrated flavor as water content evaporates from the heat.
In general, a brief flame enhances the alcoholic bite and concentrates the liquor’s taste. But an extended burn can make it unpleasant. Flaming a nice sipping tequila would ruin the nuanced flavor. Choose lower quality, high alcohol tequilas and drink soon after igniting for best taste.
What drinks pair well with flaming shots?
Some beverages complement flaming shots nicely as accompaniments:
- Water – Hydrates and cleanses the palate between shots.
- Sparkling water – The bubbles help cleanse the palate.
- Citrus soda – The citrus flavors accentuate the lime wedge.
- Cola – The crisp, sweet cola provides contrast.
- Ginger ale – Soothes the throat and settles the stomach.
- Bloody Mary – The spicy tomato juice drink matches well.
Pairing flaming shots with non-alcoholic mixers helps rehydrate and reset your palate between rounds. Stick to water or sparkling drinks to avoid excess calories and sugar.
Where did flaming shots originate?
The origins of flaming shots are murky, but they became popular in bars and restaurants in the 1990s and 2000s. Two urban legends around their creation:
Mexico
One story credits a bar in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico popular with American tourists on spring break. Supposedly they began igniting tequila shots for entertainment purposes and flair.
Spain
A rival tale claims a Spanish bartender created flaming shots by accident when a drink was ignited by a nearby candle. Patrons were entertained and it became a trend.
Whatever their exact origin, flaming shots have certainly taken on a life of their own over the past few decades as a dramatic party drink. The ability to safely ignite 80-proof liquors made the phenomenon possible.
Why do people like flaming shots?
There are a few key reasons flaming shots rose to popularity:
- Showmanship – They provide visual pizzazz and flair compared to an ordinary shot.
- Entertainment – Drinking a flaming liquid is exciting and sparks interest among onlookers.
- Group bonding – Taking a flaming shot together makes for a shared, daring experience.
- Tradition – They’ve become ingrained in party and bar culture, especially for 21st birthdays and celebrations.
The flashy presentation and novelty of flaming shots make them ideal for fun-loving party settings and large group events. They bring hype and energy to the atmosphere.
What alcohol proof is best for flaming shots?
Higher alcohol proof liquids ignite easier and make better flaming shots. Ideal proofs:
- 90-100 proof (45-50% ABV) – Ignites reliably and burns strongly.
- 80-90 proof (40-45% ABV) – Acceptable level for decent flaming.
- Under 80 proof (under 40% ABV) – May be difficult to ignite and sustain a flame.
As a general rule, aim for liquors in the 80-100 proof range. Lower quality well spirits often fall in this band. Top shelf liquors may be too smooth and complex to waste in flaming shots.
Can you use 151 proof rum for flaming shots?
Bacardi 151 rum at 75.5% alcohol is an overproof spirit that ignites vigorously. However, take extreme care when using 151 proof rum for flaming shots:
- Use only 1/4 to 1/3 of a shot glass and top with water or cola.
- Ignite and extinguish quickly – the high alcohol content makes for big flames.
- Have a fire extinguisher ready in case of accidents.
- Never leave a 151 shot burning or allow inexperienced people to try.
High proof rums like 151 can make impressive flames, but require caution. They can result in injuries or accidents if handled recklessly. Only make quick flaming shots with small amounts of 151 for safety.
What are some funny or creative flaming shot names?
Flaming shots lend themselves well to amusing, over-the-top names. Here are some popular examples:
- Flaming Space Shuttle
- Fire in the Hole
- Blast Off
- Dragon’s Breath
- Liquid Inferno
- Ring of Fire
- Death Wish
- Flaming Zombie
- Bandiera Rossa (Italian for “red flag”)
Names with fire, heat, danger, and destruction motifs are common. Bartenders get creative with colorful names that highlight the daring, fiery nature of flaming shots. Feel free to invent your own clever monikers!
Conclusion
While precautions need to be taken, flaming shots provide a fun and flashy way to enjoy tequila or other liquors. The flamed spectacle makes for an exciting group drinking experience that becomes a memorable event. Just be sure to follow safety rules and drink responsibly when lighting up shots of alcohol. Consumed in moderation by willing participants, flaming shots can be a safe and wildly entertaining party drink!