I know it’s only Wednesday, but I felt the need for a mid-week cocktail! Life has been throwing some stressful curve-balls my way and with the gloomy weather, it’s left me in a pre-holiday funk. I figured a strong margarita with some bright citrusy flavors would be in order to change things up. A spicy chili rim, fresh squeezed citrus, and a cilantro-mint simple syrup make for a beautifully bold margarita that breaks up winter blues of any kind!
Cilantro Mint Syrup:
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, torn
1 Tbs fresh mint leaves, torn
Spicy Chili Rim:
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp coarsely ground salt
Pinch of cayenne pepper
(makes 2)
Margaritas:
4oz silver tequila
2oz cilantro-mint simple syrup
Juice from 2 limes
Juice from half of a large orange
Ice
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil and stir until sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat, add cilantro and mint leaves, and stir. Set aside and allow leaves to steep in the syrup for 30 minutes or until completely cooled. Strain syrup into a small sealing container and discard leaves.
For the rim, mix chili powder, salt, and cayenne pepper in a small shallow dish. Run a lime wedge around the rims of 2 glasses and then dip into the chili-salt mixture to coat.
To make the margaritas you’ll combine tequila, 2 ounces of syrup, lime juice and orange juice in a cocktail shaker. Shake for 10-15 seconds and strain into ice filled glasses. Garnish with fresh lime and orange slices and sprig of mint.
Enjoy responsibly!
