The Story Behind The Jalapeño Margarita

A bit of spice can elevate any Margarita. It harmonizes with both the subtle sweetness of agave and the bright zestiness of orange liqueur. The Jalapeño Margarita offers a slightly fresher, more vegetal flavor profile than that of the Spicy Margarita, which is made with bird’s eye chili. The succulent taste of fresh jalapeño adds a nice kick to a classic Marg; the pepper’s freshness plays well with the earthiness of the tequila and makes for a lively riff on America’s favorite cocktail.

Ingredients

½ jalapeño, sliced
2 ounces tequila blanco
1/2 ounce orange liqueur (like triple sec or Cointreau)
1 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
1/2 ounce agave syrup
Garnish: salt rim, jalapeño slice

Directions

Rim a rocks glass with salt and set aside to dry.
Add the sliced jalapeño to a shaker and muddle until slightly broken down.
Add the tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, agave, and ice and shake until cold.
Strain into salt-rimmed glass with fresh ice.
Garnish with jalapeño slice.

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Yield: 1
Calories: 162
Updated: 2022-07-01

Jalapeño Margarita FAQ

How long does it take to infuse tequila with jalepeño?

Depending on the recipe used, infusing tequila with jalapeño can take anywhere from 10 to 12 hours to four days. As infusing goes, the longer the flavors are able to blend with one another, the stronger the result will be; meaning any tequila infused for longer times will result in a spicier spirit.

How do you cut jalapeños for Margaritas?

For Margaritas, jalapeños should be sliced into rounds. This shape allows for an easier muddling process, plus the rounds look nice floating on the top of the cocktail as a garnish.