Margarita

I think it’s time we focus on Margaritas. It is such a beloved cocktail and does not require much to make. But all too often, I see or hear of people using a pre-made mix, and it hurts. Margaritas belong to a family of cocktails that depend on fresh ingredients; sours. Sours need, I repeat, need to be made with fresh citrus. In turn, Margaritas need to be made with lime juice.

Now when we talk about citrus juice, nothing beats freshly squeezed. Buying prepared juice from the store is not recommended for a number of reasons. First of which is, at best, you’re just paying someone to squeeze a lime for you. Also, when you buy it, chances are it isn’t lime juice, at least not completely. It could be a concentrate. It could be preservatives, citric acid and lime flavor. Even pasteurized 100% organic lime juice simply doesn’t taste the same. Do yourself a favor and cut a lime in half.

Next, let’s talk triple sec. There are so many different brands and bottles. But the absolute best for your margarita is Cointreau. The OG margarita uses specifically this. It’s a higher ABV than most triple secs and contains less sugar, which can be added to taste later. And that is important because it’s all about finding out what YOU like. My margarita may be boozier, sweeter, or less tart than what you prefer. No pre-made mixes or concentrates. Just three (or four) ingredients. Simple and delicious.