Paul Kushner
A Tequila Sour is a masterful blend of sweet, tart, and strong flavors, that has been delighting cocktail enthusiasts for decades.
Steeped in tradition, this drink is as much a part of tequila’s storied history as it is a testament to the spirit’s versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a cocktail beginner, the Tequila Sour is a delicious and balanced drink worth exploring.
History
The Tequila Sour is a variation of the classic sour cocktail family that includes the Whiskey Sour and the Pisco Sour, among others.
The sour cocktail tradition began in the 19th century, but the Tequila Sour specifically did not gain popularity until the mid-20th century, when interest in tequila began to grow outside of Mexico.
Despite its relatively late appearance on the global stage, it quickly became a staple in bars and cocktail lounges worldwide.
How to Make
The magic of the Tequila Sour comes from the combination of its simple ingredients. Here is the recipe.
Tequila Sour
To suit your preferences, you can change the ingredient proportions. You can increase the amount of simple syrup or lime juice in your cocktail to make it sweeter or more sour.
Ingredients
- 2 oz of your favorite tequila
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Ice
- Lemon wedge or cherry for garnish
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white if using.
- Shake without ice for about 10 seconds if using egg white to emulsify the ingredients. This process is called "dry shaking".
- Add ice to the shaker and shake again for about 15-20 seconds to chill and dilute the drink.
- Strain the cocktail into a glass. Typically, a Tequila Sour is served in a rocks glass.
- Garnish with a cherry or lemon wheel and serve immediately.
Variations
One of the beautiful aspects of the Tequila Sour is that it lends itself to many variations. Here are a few:
- Mezcal Sour: Replace tequila with mezcal for a smokier version of this cocktail.
- Tequila Honey Sour: Substitute honey syrup for the simple syrup to add a rich, earthy sweetness.
- Spicy Tequila Sour: Muddle a few slices of jalapeno in the cocktail shaker before adding other ingredients for a spicy kick.
- Fruity Tequila Sour: Add a splash of your favorite fruit juice or a handful of fresh berries to the shaker for a fruity twist.
Tequila Sour FAQ
Q: Can I make a Tequila Sour without egg white?
A: Absolutely. The egg white is used to create a frothy texture but does not significantly alter the taste. If you’re vegan, allergic, or simply don’t like the idea of raw egg in your drink, you can leave it out or use an alternative like aquafaba (chickpea water).
Q: What type of tequila should I use?
A: A quality 100% agave tequila is recommended. You can use either blanco (unaged) tequila for a brighter, more agave-forward flavor, or reposado (lightly aged) tequila for a smoother, more mellow taste.
Q: Can I use bottled lemon juice?
A: Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give the best flavor. Bottled juice can be used in a pinch, but it often has a more muted and less fresh taste.
Q: How can I make my own simple syrup?
A: Simple syrup is easy to make
Remember to always drink responsibly!
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