Tapeworm Shot Recipe

WRITTEN BY: SCOTT VAN DORT

The Tapeworm is a shot that has gained popularity as a daring challenge and social media sensation.

Let’s be real—the Tapeworm shot is downright gross. It’s probably the most revolting thing you’ll ever drink. You heard it right – the Tapeworm is not a shot to be enjoyed. But watching someone else attempt to drink it? That’s pure entertainment!

The Tapeworm is a test for those brave enough to venture beyond their comfort zone. Oh, and yes, it tastes every bit as “good” as it looks and smells. So, are you up for the challenge? 

How To Make the Tapeworm

How to Mix

1. Pour Absolut Peppar into a shot glass.
2. Add a dash of Hot Sauce and Ground Black Pepper.
3. Finish with a squirt of Mayonnaise, letting it float in the glass to create the “tapeworm” effect. 
4. Sip and “enjoy!”

The History of the Tapeworm Shot

There’s no documented history or specific origin for the Tapeworm shot. However, what we do know is that it’s a relatively recent creation (2020-2022), popularized through social media and word-of-mouth.

The drink’s popularity stems from its shock value and ability to gross out or challenge those willing to try it.

Absolut gathered Rico along with a daring crew of friends from New Orleans, Louisiana, for an episode of Absolut Drinks with Rico. Their mission? To rate and discover the world’s worst cocktail! The Tapeworm shot was in the lineup.

Rico was joined by Mason Hereford and Lauren Agudo from Turkey and the Wolf, Phil Cenac from Hungry Eyes, Nathan Barfield from Hot Stuff, and Colleen Quarls from Molly’s Rise and Shine.

Tips for Making the “Perfect” Tapeworm Shot

• Buy Mayonnaise in a Plastic Squeeze Bottle
  To achieve the Tapeworm effect, use a Plastic Squeeze Bottle to hover the nozzle above the shot glass and squeeze the Mayonnaise directly into the glass, creating the Tapeworm.If your Mayonnaise comes in a jar, you’ll need to transfer it into a Plastic Squeeze Bottle. To do this, place two pieces of plastic wrap on your work surface, crossing them like an X.

  Use a Spatula to scoop the Mayonnaise from the jar into the center of the wrap, then gather the corners to form a sack. Pierce a small hole at the bottom of the sack. Finally, squeeze the Mayonnaise through the hole into a Plastic Squeeze Bottle.

• Choose the right Hot Sauce
  For this shot, choose a hot sauce made with peppers, vinegar, and salt. The vinegar is essential—it delivers both the sharp aroma and tangy flavor that define the experience.
• The more hideous, the better
  To make an even more revolting shot, add two or more squirts to create multiple “Tapeworms”—or hold the squeeze for a while to form one long, spiraling tapeworm that stretches up the entire shot glass!

Variations of a Tapeworm Shot

• Use Plain Vodka
  Our recipe spices things up by using Absolut Peppar, our Black Pepper Flavored Vodka. However, the most common Tapeworm shot is typically made with plain vodka.

• Try different Hot Sauces
  Turn up the heat! If you can find other Hot Sauces with Cayenne Pepper or Habanero Peppers, try those instead. However, make sure you use a Hot Sauce with Vinegar.

Serving and Garnish Ideas for a Tapeworm Shot

The Tapeworm should be served in a clear Shot Glass. No garnish required!