I have a special place in my heart for Cinco de Mayo. Ok, I admit it's my birthday, so I have even more love for it. Most people groan about sharing their birthday with any type of holiday, but for me, it's a great bonus because tons of people to come out to celebrate and raise a glass. One big party!
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So, in honor of my birthday and the day the Mexico defeated the French at the Battle of Puebla, I've created a memorable and celebratory cocktail: The Cinco de Maren! Mind you, this drink is not for the faint at heart; it's juicy, strong, slightly sweet and spicy - just like me! I always love using fresh ingredients, so for this cocktail challenge, I worked with Mexican flavors and colors: red (strawberries, sriracha) green (jalepeno, basil) and white (tequila blanco).
This drink is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests! Show them your wild side by serving the "Cinco de Maren" at your Cinco de Mayo party. Garnishes are an important part of this drink's aesthetic presentation, so use you original ingredients to bring out its personality!
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You will need a tequila blanco of your choice (we tried Sauza), triple sec (or Cointreau if you have the budget), ripe strawberries, jalepeno, sriracha, basil, agave, lime juice and ice. The flavors of this drink are similar to a margarita, but packs more of a punch. Salud and happy Cinco de Mayo!
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"Cinco de Maren" cocktail:
2 ozs Sauza Tequila Blanco
3/4 oz Triple Sec
3/4 Lime Juice
1/2 oz Agave nectar
2 Ripe Strawberries
2 Big Basil Leaves
1 Slice of Jalepeno
1 Small Squeeze of Sriracha hot sauce
Ice
1 Slice of Jalepeno
1 Small Squeeze of Sriracha hot sauce
Ice
Make It:
Muddle Sliced Jalepeno First
Add Strawberries and Basil and Continue to Muddle
Layer Tequila, Triple Sec, Agave Nectar, Lime Juice and Sriracha
Add to Ice and Shake
Strain into Fresh Glass of Ice and Serve
Garnish with a Strawberry and Jalepeno Slice or a Small and Sweet Red Pepper (I added a sprig of basil for color)
Layer Tequila, Triple Sec, Agave Nectar, Lime Juice and Sriracha
Add to Ice and Shake
Strain into Fresh Glass of Ice and Serve
Garnish with a Strawberry and Jalepeno Slice or a Small and Sweet Red Pepper (I added a sprig of basil for color)
Tips:
1. Use ripe strawberries for an overall better flavor and natural sweetness.
2. Red or green jalepenos both work (but red ones tend to be more mild).
3. Adapt the recipe to your tolerance of spice (taste before you pour and more or less sriracha according to your preference).
4. If the drink is a little on the powerful side for you, add a topper of sparkling water.
5. A toothpick will work great to hold the garnishes together.
2. Red or green jalepenos both work (but red ones tend to be more mild).
3. Adapt the recipe to your tolerance of spice (taste before you pour and more or less sriracha according to your preference).
4. If the drink is a little on the powerful side for you, add a topper of sparkling water.
5. A toothpick will work great to hold the garnishes together.
Cheers,
Maren
Makin' it with Maren: Mixology Made Easy
