What will you be drinking this Cinco de Mayo? If you like drinks with a little heat and a pronounced smoky edge, this Mezcal Margarita is an excellent choice. It’s bright, refreshing, and packs a pleasant kick.
I have a soft spot for smoky flavors and often order cocktails that feature mezcal. Swapping mezcal for tequila gives the classic margarita a deeper, more complex character. Not everyone enjoys smokiness, which is fine — it just means more for those who do.
The spice in this cocktail comes from jalapeño slices and the smoke from mezcal. If you prefer no heat, simply omit the jalapeño. If you want extra heat, add additional slices. If you don’t like smoky spirits, substitute tequila for mezcal and you’ll have a more traditional margarita profile. Of course, if citrus, smoke and spice aren’t your thing, this recipe might not be for you — but for many, it’s a standout.
Hot and Smoky Mezcal Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 Jalapeño slices seeds removed
- Ice
- 1.5 oz Mezcal
- 1.5 oz Triple Sec or other orange liqueur
- 1 oz Lime juice
- 2 teaspoons Agave nectar
- Coarse salt
- Lime wheels and additional jalapeño slices for garnish
Instructions
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Rub a lime wedge around the rim of a rocks glass, then roll the rim in coarse salt to coat. Fill the glass with ice and set aside.
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In a cocktail shaker, muddle the jalapeño slices. Add ice, mezcal, triple sec, lime juice, and agave nectar.
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Shake until frost begins to form on the shaker, about 30 seconds.
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Strain into the prepared glass and garnish with a lime wheel and a jalapeño slice.
Tried this recipe?
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More Delicious Cocktail Recipes
Mezcal Sour
Smoky Apple Mezcal Old Fashioned
Blood Orange Mezcal Gimlet
