Margarita
Fresh lime juice is the answer to the question: how to make a margarita that is unforgettable. A classic margarita should have a nice balance of both sweet and sour. This particular cocktail won’t lie; most prepared mixes don’t taste as bright and fresh as the real thing so taking the time to squeeze juice before bartending is key.
Equipment
- 1 Cocktail Shaker For mixing and chilling the cocktail.
- 1 Jigger or Measuring Spoons For precise liquid measurements.
- 1 Citrus Juicer To extract fresh lime juice.
- 1 Small Plate For preparing the rimming mixture.
- 1 Rocks Glass or Wine Glass For serving the margarita.
Ingredients
Main
- Ice cubes
- 3 ounces tequila
- 2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 ounce Simple Syrup recipe follows
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon orange liqueur
- 1 tablespoon Lime-salt-sugar recipe follows
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- Zest of one lime
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add tequila, lime juice, Simple Syrup and orange liqueur. Cover and shake until mixed and chilled, about 30 seconds. (In general, the drink is ready by the time the shaker mists up.) Place Lime-salt-sugar on a plate. Press the rim of a chilled rocks or wine glass into the mixture to rim the edge. Strain margarita into the glass.
Notes
The quality of your ingredients is paramount; always use freshly squeezed lime juice for a vibrant, clean flavor that truly elevates the Margarita. Adjust the amount of orange liqueur (e.g., Cointreau or Triple Sec) to your preference, as it influences both sweetness and citrus notes. Ensure your Simple Syrup is fully cooled before mixing to prevent dilution. For the perfect chill, shake the cocktail vigorously until the shaker is thoroughly frosted, then strain immediately into a pre-chilled glass for optimal temperature and presentation. Don't skip chilling your serving glass!