Sometimes you have to go with a classic. While I love getting creative with different flavors, herbs and spices, I believe in sticking to a particular formula when it comes to the classic margarita: tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice and optional homemade simple syrup. No margarita mix for this lady.
Ingredients in a Classic Margarita
In fact, I have strong feelings against using margarita mix. A classic margarita calls for just a few simple ingredients. Why go for something that tastes artificial and sticky when you can make a much tastier drink in just a few minutes?
As for the tequila, I’m a sucker for reposado, specifically Corralejo. Most margaritas use the blanco variety, which is bottled immediately or shortly after distilling. Reposado tequila, however, is aged in oak barrels anywhere between two months and one year, making for a more mellow drink with subtle barrel characteristics. And that’s not to say there aren’t great blanco tequilas because there certainly are, but I prefer the smoothness that comes with reposado.
Now let’s talk triple sec. I’ve tasted a lot of margaritas in my day, and Grand Marnier remains my favorite type of triple sec. But it’s pricey, and if you plan on drinking a lot of of margaritas in your life — and you probably should — I completely understand using a more economical alternative.
And if you don’t have much of a sweet tooth, the simple syrup is optional. Matt prefers his margaritas without simple syrup, but for me, the simple syrup helps meld everything together.
So find a spot on the patio, shake up a few batches of margaritas and let me know what you think. As far as I’m concerned, it doesn’t get much better than that.
Perfect Pairing for Classic Margarita
Get yourself a big bowl of seafood ceviche and plenty of freshly fried tortilla chips. The lime and seafood are a natural match. If you want to mix things up and try something besides Mexican food, a Thai curry doesn’t disappoint.
Cheers!
Classic Margarita
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 drink 1x
Print Recipe
Pin RecipeDescription
This classic margarita uses no mix and only the freshest ingredients. It’s super easy and the tastiest way to make a margarita.
Ingredients
For Simple Syrup
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
For Margarita
2 ounces tequila
1 ounce triple sec or Grand Marnier
1 lime, juiced
1 ounce simple syrup, optional
Ice
1 tablespoon sea salt, optional
1 lime slice, optional
Instructions
- If using the simple syrup, simmer the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir frequently to dissolve the sugar. As soon as the sugar dissolves, remove from heat.
- Pour tequila, triple sec, lime juice and simple syrup if desired in a cocktail shaker. Add a handful of ice. Put the top on the shaker and shake for about 15 seconds.
- Spread sea salt on a plate. Run the lime slice around the rim of a glass and dip the glass in the salt. Add more ice to the glass and strain the shaken margarita into the glass. Garnish with a lime slice.
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: margarita, classic margarita, margarita on the rocks, fresh margarita
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