One of the most sought-after cocktails during the hot summer months is the spicy margarita, perfect for lounging by the pool or relaxing at the beach. This cocktail is not only easy to make by simply combining ingredients in a shaker, but it is also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a fruity twist with fresh juice or a smokier flavor by using mezcal instead of tequila, the spicy margarita offers a wide range of possibilities for spice enthusiasts.
For those who enjoy a drink with a fiery kick, adding extra jalapeños or a spicy tincture to the mix can elevate the heat level of the cocktail. Making a pitcher at home or sampling one from a favorite East End establishment allows you to experiment with different levels of spiciness and find your perfect balance. However, it is important to have a side of water while sipping on these fiery cocktails to help cool down the heat and balance out the flavors.
A popular recipe for a spicy margarita involves hibiscus tequila, lime juice, and jalapeño tincture. This combination creates a vibrant and flavorful cocktail that can be garnished with a Tajín rim, jalapeño slice, and lime wheel for an added touch of visual appeal. The agave mixture used in the recipe is simple to make by combining agave and hot water, while the jalapeño tincture requires slicing jalapeños and letting them sit in Everclear for 24 hours before straining.
Another variation of the spicy margarita includes cucumber jalapeño tequila, lime juice, pineapple juice, ouzo, and simple syrup. This refreshing cocktail can be garnished with a cucumber slice or lime wheel, making it a perfect choice for a hot summer day. For those looking for a more complex flavor profile, the Tanteo jalapeño tequila cocktail with lime juice, persimmon liqueur, black lime syrup, and Tajín rim offers a unique and sophisticated twist on the traditional margarita.
Rita Cantina offers a spicy watermelon margarita made with tequila or mezcal, fresh lime juice, watermelon juice, simple syrup, spicy tincture, and saline for added depth of flavor. This cocktail can be customized to suit individual preferences by adjusting the amount of tincture for spiciness. To make the spicy tincture, yellow and red habañeros are steeped in Tapatío 110 tequila for 24 hours before straining, while the saline is made by blending water and kosher salt for a quart of saline solution.
