Spicy Margarita

Ingredients

• ½ Jalapeño pepper, sliced, for muddling
• more slices Jalapeño pepper, for garnish
• 30 ml Tequila, blanco
• 30 ml Orange liqueur, such as Cointreau, Grand Marnier, or triple sec
• 30 ml Lime, juiced
• 1 wedge Lime, for the glass rim
• 15 ml Agave nectar, or simple syrup or freshly squeezed orange juice; more to taste
• Ice, for filling the glass
• Ice, for shaking
• as needed Tajín, or kosher salt, for the glass rim

Method

1. 01

   Rim the glass and add ice

   If using the optional rim, rub the lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass, then dip it into Tajín or kosher salt. Fill the glass with ice; if skipping the rim, simply fill it and keep it ready.

2. 02

   Muddle the jalapeño

   Put the sliced jalapeño in a cocktail shaker and muddle firmly until it releases its aroma and juice. Do not pulverize it into a paste; a few presses are enough to infuse the drink.

3. 03

   Shake until chilled

   Add the tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and agave nectar (or your chosen alternative) to the shaker. Add ice, cover securely, and shake until the outside is frosty and the drink is thoroughly chilled.

4. 04

   Strain and garnish

   Strain the chilled mixture into the prepared rocks glass, leaving the spent jalapeño solids behind. Add the reserved jalapeño slices, then serve immediately while the drink is cold and the rim is crisp.

Note

The liquid measures are fluid ounces, as is standard for cocktails. Choose agave nectar, simple syrup, or freshly squeezed orange juice, and add more to taste if you prefer a sweeter drink.