The Cranberry Margarita
The Beautiful Tart Drink You Need Right Now
Sometimes there is a particular food or drink that is so tied to a feeling that just thinking about it just sort of takes you there. A Margarita is one of those things.
The magical mixture of tequila, lime, and a little sweetness conjures up a certain mood - one where you are happy and relaxed, as the demands of a modern life drift away. It’s the perfect mood setter for a party or gathering of friends and family.
The Margarita
With a short list of ingredients, Margaritas can become whatever you’d like them to be. Fresh lime juice does most of the heavy lifting, so Margaritas are a great vehicle for adding interesting fruit purees and juices, flavors that can fit all kinds of occasions - watermelon, strawberry, tamarind, pomegranate, grapefruit, pineapple, mango, jalapeno, and cranberry. Especially cranberry.
The Cranberry Margarita
The bright tart flavor of cranberry juice pairs beautifully with the acid in lime juice, creating a drink that is fresh and tart and just a little sweet with a beautiful ruby-red color. It can be made by the glass or in a pitcher, ready to pour over ice when you’ve got a crowd to serve.
The Tequila
Because this is a Margarita, tequila plays a supporting role. Use a white (blanco) or silver. White tequilas have some flavor but not so much that they overpower the lime and cranberry. Feel free to omit the tequila, but add a splash of seltzer water if you do.
The Cranberry Juice
For the cranberry juice, Ocean Spray Cocktail Juice is my choice. It’s puckeringly tart and not too sweet. Straight unsweetened cranberry juice would work but you’ll need more sweetness to balance the huge tart flavor.
Simple Syrup
Simple syrup adds a touch of sweet love to the party. Buy it at the grocery store on the drink aisle by the club soda or make your own by adding equal parts sugar and water to a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved. Cool and keep it in the fridge.
Fresh Lime Juice
Fresh lime juice makes a huge difference here, so skip the Rose’s lime juice and lime juice concentrate. Get fresh limes and squeeze them. Roll them under your palms on the countertop to help them release their juice.
Mix Up Your Cranberry Margarita
Mix your drink right in the glass or pitcher, then taste it and see what it needs - maybe to be a little sweeter, a little more limey, or a little tarter. Add it and taste it again. Pour over ice to serve. No need to rim the glass with salt or sugar but a slice of lime and/or fresh cranberries floating in the glass would be a nice garnish.
Cheers!
Chelly
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