New Twists on a Summertime Margarita

I blame this one on my ill spent time in San Antonio, Texas while with the Army. You see San Antonio is known for more than a few great things. The San Antonio Spurs, outstanding and plentiful festivals throughout the year, outstanding Mexican inspired food, the Alamo and the crown jewel is the River Walk that runs through town. Here you can find amazing food and drinks bigger than your head with lots and lots of tequila. I have covered a few of my times in that fair city in past postings so I will spare you all another agave ridden tale.

I will take this chance to post something I haven't done in a little while now. A great cocktail is the subject here. Here are a couple twists on the margarita. So kick back in your favorite hammock or bring a great big batch to the beach and enjoy!





Watermelon Infused Margarita
For this you are first going to have to infuse the tequila with watermelon. You will need 1 watermelon and a liter bottle of your favorite premium tequila.
Cut the watermelon into cubes and place in a container with the tequila. Let this sit for at least 3 days. At the end of the 3 days mash up the melon in the tequila with a potato masher till smooth. Now strain the tequila in a fine strainer. I like my infusion to be a bit thicker. If you like it to be less thick use either a cheese cloth or coffee filters will do in a pinch. You are now ready to bottle this infusion back in the original tequila bottle. Keep this refrigerated. Now onto the margarita...

In a frosted beer mug 
rim with salt or melon sugar if you wish 
Serve over ice
2 oz. - Watermelon infused tequila
1 oz. - Watermelon schnapps
1 oz. - OJ
1 oz. - Sour mix
Splash of Cranberry
Splash of Lime
Toss to mix
Garnish with a slick of fresh watermelon and a lime.

The Chili Chill Margarita

This one has a bit more of a kick and you will first need to make a simple puree to start things off. I a blender 4 Asian Chili's or pick your favorite hot pepper. Depending on what you like for heat will determine the pepper you use here. 4 ounces of pineapple juice and one mango. Blend this up into a puree and run through a strainer to remove any chunks. Your Chili puree is done.

Build your margarita in a pint glass over ice. 
2 oz. - Premium Tequila
1 oz. - Cointreau or Triple Sec
1 oz. - Chili puree
1 oz. - OJ
Squeeze 3 slices of fresh lime
Shake over ice and strain into a martini glass
or pour into a margarita glass
Garnish with a Chili

Cheers!

This had everything to do with tequila and one of San Antonio's many festivals. What are the chances I would find a midget mariachi player sitting by the side of the road!  Notice the braided belt pointed down on the cuffed jean shorts.