This alcohol-free jalapeno mule is a savory and spicy take on the classic Moscow Mule recipe. Simply made with three ingredients – lime juice, fresh jalapenos, and ginger beer – this mocktail still packs a punch of flavor.
The aromatic warmth of the ginger layered with the prickly heat of the jalapeno gives the drink a complex, spiced character. The distinctive green pepper and slightly tangy notes of the fresh chili outweighing the ginger beer’s sweetness: this mocktail is definitely on the sour and savory side of the spectrum.
Remember that the jalapeno will continue to infuse in the glass. So, the longer you sip this mocktail, the spicier it will get. If you prefer to reduce the heat, you can remove the jalapeno seeds before muddling with the lime, or simply add fewer slices of the chili pepper to the drink.
Unique, lip-tingling, and refreshing. You won’t want to give this one a miss!
Ingredients
- ½ oz. (15 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice (approx. ½ large lime)
- 8-10 slices of a fresh jalapeno pepper
- 5 oz. (150 ml) non-alcoholic ginger beer
- Slice of lime to garnish (optional)
- Ice
Equipment
- Knife
- Muddler
- Cocktail spoon
- Copper mug (or tumbler)
Instructions
- In the copper mug, muddle the lime juice with the jalapeno pepper slices.
- Fill the mug with ice, and top with the ginger beer.
- Stir gently with a cocktail spoon to mix the ingredients.
- Garnish with a slice of lime.
Similar Mocktails
If you liked the Mexican Mule, check out:
- Dang, You Pine: Pineapple and Tabasco Non-Alcoholic Martini
- Miami Mule: Non-alcoholic Grapefruit and Ginger Beer Fizz
Alcohol-Free Jalapeno Mule FAQ
Can I use any type of ginger beer?
Yes, you can use any brand of ginger beer, but make sure that it is non-alcoholic. I like to use Fentimans ginger beer for this recipe because it has a strong ginger flavor and isn’t too sweet.
Do I need a copper mug to make the alcohol-free jalapeno mule?
No, you can use any type of glass or mug to serve this drink. A copper mug helps to keep the drink cold. However, a normal glass better showcases the sliced jalapenos. The presentation is entirely up to you.
Is this mocktail spicy?
The level of spiciness can vary depending on the amount of jalapeno slices you use. If you prefer a milder drink, use less jalapeno or remove the seeds before muddling with the lime.
Can I make this drink ahead of time?
It is best to make this drink fresh. If you’d like to get ahead, you can prepare the lime juice and jalapeno pepper slices in advance. I wouldn’t recommend muddling them together until you are ready to serve because the spice level will increase the longer the jalapenos infuse with the lime.
Can I use a different type of pepper instead of jalapeno?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of chili pepper. However, keep in mind that the flavor and spiciness of the drink will vary when different peppers are used.
Can I use a different type of soda instead of ginger beer?
Ginger beer is an essential ingredient in a traditional Moscow Mule, but you can use different soda if you’d like to make a variation on the classic. The flavor of the drink will taste different.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes one serving. To make more, simply multiply the ingredients to scale up the quantity.
Can I use bottled lime juice instead of fresh lime juice?
The alcohol-free jalapeno mule will taste better with fresh lime juice. However, if fresh limes are not available, you can use bottled lime juice. The flavor of the mocktail may vary slightly as a result.
What is the difference between ginger ale and ginger beer?
Ginger ale and ginger beer are both carbonated drinks flavored with ginger, but there are some differences between them.
Ginger ale is a soft drink that is made with carbonated water, sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, and ginger flavoring. It has a milder ginger flavor and is generally sweeter than ginger beer. Some brands of ginger ale do not contain real ginger, but artificial flavorings instead.
Ginger beer, on the other hand, is a non-alcoholic fermented beverage that is made with ginger, sugar, yeast, and water. It has a stronger and more complex ginger flavor, and is generally less sweet than ginger ale. It has a slightly cloudy appearance due to the natural fermentation process.
Can I use a different type of citrus fruit instead of lime?
Yes, if you prefer, you can substitute the lime with a different type of citrus fruit, such as lemon or orange. Keep in mind that the flavor of the drink will vary with the change in ingredients.
How can I make this drink more or less sweet?
If you would like to sweeten the alcohol-free jalapeno mule, you can add some honey or a simple syrup to the drink. If you find the drink too sweet, try a different ginger beer brand that has a lower sugar content.
Did you make this? Tag me @mightymocktail or use the hashtag #mightymocktail!