Paul Kushner
As promised, let us get started with one of the sexiest drinks around, the Spicy Margarita. Made with fresh lime, agave, and that punch of jalapeño, it is the perfect drink for anyone looking to spice things up. This is not just any cocktail, though; it is an exciting blend of sweet, sour, and a kick of spice that will have your taste buds dancing. I love serving it because it is always a hit, adding a fun twist to any moment.
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Tasting Notes
On first taste, agave’s sweetness quickly follows the typical sourness of lime. Then comes the best part – the warmth of the jalapeño peppers that tingle your taste buds, leaving a memorable aftertaste that’s both refreshing and fiery.
Equipment and Glassware
You’ll need a cocktail shaker, a strainer, and a muddler. For glassware, a chilled rocks glass rimmed with salt (or sugar, if you’re into that) is the way to go. This setup ensures your Spicy Margarita is served to perfection.
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
- 1/2 oz agave syrup
- 2-3 slices of jalapeño peppers (depending on the desired heat level)
- Tajin seasoning and/or kosher salt for rim
- Lime wedge for rim and garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by prepping your glass. Rub the rim of a rocks glass with a lime wedge and dip the rim in Tajin seasoning and/or kosher salt to coat. Set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle 2-3 slices of jalapeño peppers (adjust based on your heat preference)
- Add 2 oz blanco tequila, 1 oz lime juice, 1 oz orange liqueur, and 1/2 oz agave syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
- Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cilantro (optional).
Pro Tips
For an extra flavor, infuse your tequila with jalapeño slices overnight. It adds a deeper spicy flavor that blends seamlessly with the other ingredients. And if you’re sensitive to heat, start with fewer jalapeño slices and adjust to your liking.
When to Serve
The Spicy Margarita is a versatile cocktail that fits any occasion. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon BBQ, a casual get-together, or even a fancy dinner, this cocktail brings a lively twist to your gathering.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Although any high-quality blanco tequila can be used, Spicy Margaritas are best complemented with upscale brands such as Espolón, Patrón, or Don Julio. These tequilas possess a refined and clean flavor profile that harmonizes perfectly with the cocktail’s various components.
Similar Cocktails
If you love the Spicy Margarita, you might also enjoy these:
- Jalapeño Mojito: A spicy take on the classic Mojito, this cocktail combines fresh mint, lime, sugar, and jalapeño with rum for a refreshing and fiery drink.
- Pineapple Jalapeño Margarita: This cocktail is a tropical twist on the classic spicy margarita, blending the sweetness of pineapple with the heat of jalapeño peppers.
- Michelada: A unique beer cocktail from Mexico that mixes lager with lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, and peppers for a savory and spicy beverage.
- Bloody Maria: A zesty and spicy version of the Bloody Mary, swapping vodka for tequila. It’s rich with tomato juice, lime, hot sauce, and spices, perfect for brunch or any time you need a bold drink.
- Tequila Sunrise with a Chili Salt Rim: A spicy twist on the classic Tequila Sunrise. It keeps the orange juice and grenadine but adds a chili salt rim for an extra kick, blending sweet, citrus, and spice beautifully.
History
The Margarita’s origins are a bit of a mystery, with several stories claiming its invention. However, the Spicy Margarita is a modern twist, born from the love of adding a little heat to our drinks. It’s a testament to the cocktail’s adaptability and our endless quest for new flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 oz blanco tequila
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz orange liqueur such as Cointreau
- 1/2 oz agave syrup
- 2-3 slices of jalapeño peppers depending on the desired heat level
- Tajin seasoning and/or kosher salt for rim
- Lime wedge for rim and garnish
- Fresh cilantro for garnish optional
Instructions
- Start by prepping your glass. Rub the rim of a rocks glass with a lime wedge and dip the rim in Tajin seasoning and/or kosher salt to coat. Set aside.
- In a cocktail shaker, muddle 2-3 slices of jalapeño peppers (adjust based on your heat preference)
- Add 2 oz blanco tequila, 1 oz lime juice, 1 oz orange liqueur, and 1/2 oz agave syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
- Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Garnish with a lime wedge and fresh cilantro (optional).
Notes
