Description
A tangy, spicy margarita with tequila, lime, orange liqueur, pickle brine, and jalapeño.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 ounces tequila blanco (good quality recommended)
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- ¾ ounce pickle brine (from spicy pickles)
- ½ ounce orange liqueur (Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- ¼ ounce agave nectar (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 slices jalapeño (optional, for muddling)
- Spicy salt (Tajin) for rimming
- Lime wedge, for garnish
- Spicy pickle spear, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions
- Prepare the Spicy Salt Rim: On a small plate, spread a thin layer of spicy salt (Tajin). Moisten the rim of a margarita glass with a lime wedge. Gently press the rim of the glass into the spicy salt, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Set the glass aside.
- Muddle the Jalapeño (Optional): If you want an extra kick, place the jalapeño slices in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Gently muddle them to release their oils and spice. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can make the margarita too bitter.
- Add the Liquids: Add the tequila blanco, fresh lime juice, pickle brine, orange liqueur, and agave nectar to the cocktail shaker (on top of the muddled jalapeño, if using).
- Add Ice: Fill the cocktail shaker with ice. You want enough ice to chill the margarita quickly and properly dilute it.
- Shake Vigorously: Secure the lid of the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds. This will ensure the ingredients are well combined and the margarita is properly chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the margarita into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice. Straining removes the ice chips and any bits of jalapeño, resulting in a smoother drink.
- Garnish: Garnish with a lime wedge and a spicy pickle spear. This adds a visual appeal and reinforces the flavors of the margarita.
- Enjoy Responsibly! Take a sip and savor the unique combination of flavors. Adjust the agave nectar to your liking if you prefer a sweeter margarita.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by using more or less jalapeño and/or choosing a spicier pickle brine.
- Experiment with different tequilas (reposado or añejo) for a different flavor profile.
- Try different pickle brines (dill, bread and butter, pickled vegetables).
- Add a splash of fruit juice (pineapple, mango, cranberry) for a fruity twist.
- Make it frozen by blending all ingredients with ice.
- Use different rim variations like chili lime salt or smoked paprika.
- This recipe can easily be scaled up to make a batch of margaritas for a party.
- Get creative with your garnishes! In addition to the lime wedge and spicy pickle spear, you can also add a jalapeño slice, a sprig of cilantro, or even a small piece of pineapple.
- The amount of agave nectar needed will depend on the sweetness of your pickle brine. Taste the margarita after shaking and adjust the agave nectar to your liking. If you prefer a drier margarita, you may not need any agave nectar at all.
- The type of ice you use can also affect the flavor and texture of the margarita. Large ice cubes will melt more slowly, keeping the margarita colder for longer. Crushed ice will chill the margarita more quickly but will also dilute it more quickly.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes