Classic Margarita Recipe | Downshiftology (2024)

FAQs

What is the secret ingredient in margaritas? ›

We'll just tell you upfront: The secret to a tasty margarita is freshly squeezed lime juice (not the bottled stuff) and—here's the real secret—a splash of fresh OJ. That's right. Fresh-squeezed juice from an actual orange (not an orange-flavored liqueur) will produce a cleaner-tasting, more refreshing margarita.

1 1/2 ounces silver tequila. 1 ounce orange liqueur (Cointreau, Grand Marnier or Triple Sec) 3/4 ounce freshly-squeezed lime juice. optional sweetener: agave nectar or simple syrup, to taste.

4 parts tequila (look for 100% blue agave tequila — blanco, silver, or reposado) 3 parts Cointreau (or your preferred orange liqueur) 2 parts fresh lime juice.

The lime juice needs to be fresh; the tequila, while no need for it to be from the tippy toppest shelf, should be of good quality so that it's smooth, not harsh; and the triple sec should be balanced and smooth—Cointreau is the traditional choice, and a good one.

Adding fruit like mango can add a lot more flavor to your margaritas. While a classic margarita with lime is certainly tasty, adding other fruits can kick your drinks up a notch. Simply blend diced mango chunks along with the rest of your margarita ingredients, then pour into a glass of ice.

The dirty margarita takes its inspiration from the dirty martini, a classic libation made with strong liquor and a splash of a little something not-so-clear. We swap olive juice for jalapeno brine, making this a drink that packs the heat–and a punch.

While Grand Marnier and Cointreau are brand names of specific products, Triple Sec is actually a category in and of itself. Many brands make Triple Sec — in fact, Cointreau itself is a triple sec. The alcohol content in different types of Triple Sec vary quite a bit – from about 15 percent to as much as 40 percent.

The classic margarita is easy to make with tequila, triple sec and lime juice. It's also easy to remember with a 2:1:1 ratio. Watch the video below to see how I make it in my kitchen!

Blanco/Silver Tequila: The Clear Choice

For anyone seeking the quintessential Margarita experience, look no further than blanco or silver tequila. Unaged and undistilled, blanco tequila has a crisp, clean flavor profile with notes of agave and a subtle hint of sweetness.

If you don't have triple sec handy, you can substitute with another good-quality orange liqueur like Grand Marnier or Cointreau. For a non-alcoholic substitute you can add fresh orange juice, or agave nectar/simple syrup, to add a touch of sweetness.

What is the main alcohol in a margarita? ›

A margarita is a drink made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. It can be served on the rocks (with ice) or frozen.

If you like your margaritas dry, you can just skip this step. But if you're like me and want your margaritas sweet, Stodel said you should always use agave syrup. "It's an excellent sweetener for your margaritas, a natural product," he told me. "It comes from the thing that makes tequila, so I think it's awesome."

Cointreau and Grand Marnier have quite a bit in common, and in a pinch you can certainly substitute between the two. If you do, expect the flavor profile to change. Cointreau will make the drink lighter and brighter, with a stronger citrus aroma. Grand Marnier will bring weight and oaky sweetness.

If you appreciate a more complex palate, Grand Marnier is the best option. For a lighter drink, go with Cointreau. For those who are always looking to save a buck, Cointreau is less expensive. Either way, you will have a great orange liqueur that will help you mix up some delicious drinks and treat your guests.

Traditionally, orange has always been a classic pairing for any agave-based spirit, providing a sweeter complement without overpowering the notes of the agave. In Margaritas, the inclusion of triple sec provides a luscious, warm citric note that counterbalances the lime juice's high acidity.

Made with real lime juice concentrate, agave nectar and sea salt to deliver a unique mix of sweet, sour, salty and refreshing flavor in every sip.

Margarita burn is a skin reaction that occurs when lime juice makes contact with the skin and is exposed to sunlight. Most skin reactions from margarita burns are mild and may not require medical treatment. If your reaction is severe, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

According to co*cktail historian David Wondrich, the margarita is related to the brandy daisy (margarita is Spanish for "daisy"), remade with tequila instead of brandy. (Daisies are a family of co*cktails that include a base spirit, liqueur, and citrus. A sidecar and gin daisy are other related drinks.)