If I could have any drink in honour of celebrating Cinco de Mayo, it would be this amazing shot of mezcal with ancho chile liquor, Mexican oregano, lime and Chilean salt on the rim. It’s a signature shot you can only get at Quintonil, an amazing restaurant I had the luck to get a reservation when I visited Mexico City in January. This drink was smooth with an explosive punch that went down way to fast. I’m sure I’m not the first to say it should be made into a full sized beverage!
But this was a tiny example of the incredible experience I had on my visit. Mexico City is full of culture, art and creatively delicious food and drinks. It was my first visit but I hope not my last.
I also experienced La Terraza at the Gran Hotel and I experienced my first taste of a different kind of margarita. Rather than just tequila and lime, it also included Grand Marnier that gives it a great balance of sweet and sour. The massive size of my glass and tranquility of looking out into the main square of the city didn’t hurt either.
Today in fond memory of my visit and in celebration of Mexico, I decided to make what is now my favourite margarita. But I’m keeping it simple because I live on my own and I don’t keep a ton of ingredients on hand. This recipe makes 2 glasses for when you just want a bevvie or two. You can double the recipe for guests. I call this a Single Serve for the times when we enjoy a glass or two on our own.
The Grand Margarita
Ingredients:
4 ounces of Tequila (dark)
2 ounces of Grand Marnier
1 ounce of lime juice (use a fresh lime!)
1 ounce of simple syrup
First make the simple syrup by combining 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water in a pan on low heat until the sugar is dissolved. Once dissolved, remove from heat and let it cool. This process takes approximately 15 minutes.
In a cocktail shaker add tequila, Grand Marnier, lime juice and simple syrup. Secure cover and shake.
Rim the glass with salt then fill it with ice. Pour mixture of shaker into the glass.
Garnish with lime and drink!
