**Discover the Vibrant Flavors of the Prickly Pear Margarita: An Oasis of Refreshment Awaits**
Escape to a world of tantalizing flavors with the Prickly Pear Margarita, a vibrant cocktail that captures the essence of the desert. This refreshing elixir blends the sweet and tangy notes of prickly pear cactus with the classic margarita ingredients, resulting in a taste sensation that will transport you to a sun-kissed oasis. Embark on a culinary journey as we unveil the secrets behind this delightful drink, exploring variations that cater to diverse preferences. From the traditional margarita recipe to innovative twists featuring mezcal or hibiscus, each variation promises a unique adventure for your taste buds. Let the Prickly Pear Margarita be your guide as you explore the depths of flavor and discover a new favorite cocktail.
PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA
Prickly pears are everywhere in the Sonoran Desert from August to mid-November, but few people know that the cactus is edible. There's nothing like a prickly pear margarita at the end of the day. Though some people use prickly pear juice, I make prickly pear syrup. A couple of pinches of chile flakes add a little kick to the drink.
Provided by Food Network
Categories beverage
Time 2h10m
Yield 1 cocktail
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- For the cocktail: Combine the tequila, triple sec, lime juice, agave, prickly pear syrup and chile flakes in a cocktail shaker and incorporate all the ingredients by shaking it to your own rhythm.
- For the garnish: Pour some lime juice on a saucer. Mix together the sugar and salt on a separate saucer. Dip the rim of a 10-ounce glass into the lime juice and then dip the rim into the sugar and pink salt mixture. Fill the glass with ice, pour in the cocktail and garnish with prickly pear, if using, and a lime slice.
- Holding each prickly pear with metal tongs, lightly graze the fruit with a flame until the glochids (thorns) are singed off. Place the fruit in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan and cover with water. Bring to boil, cover and let sit off the heat for 25 to 35 minutes.
- Line a fine-mesh sieve with cheesecloth. Strain the liquid through it into a medium heatproof bowl, mashing the fruit with a spoon until all the fruit is mashed.
- Pour the contents of the bowl into the same saucepan and discard the solids; stir in the sugar, bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes. Add the lime zest and juice. Let simmer about 15 more minutes; remove from the heat, let cool and refrigerate.
PRICKLY PEAR MARGARITA
Steps:
- Combine the tequila, Cointreau, lime juice and pear syrup in a cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously to incorporate. Wet the rim of a margarita glass and dip into salt and sugar mixture. Pour margarita into glass over ice. Garnish with a kumquat and a curled piece of lime peel.
Tips:
- Choose ripe prickly pear cacti. Look for fruits that are plump and have a deep red or purple color.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the prickly pear cacti. Be careful to avoid the spines.
- Peeling prickly pear cacti can be tricky. One method is to use a vegetable peeler. Another method is to score the skin of the cactus with a knife and then peel it off.
- If you can't find fresh prickly pear cacti, you can use frozen or canned prickly pear puree.
- Prickly pear margaritas can be made with or without tequila. If you're making them without tequila, you can add a splash of lime juice or lemon juice.
- Garnish your prickly pear margaritas with a lime wedge or a slice of prickly pear cactus.
Conclusion:
Prickly pear margaritas are a delicious and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. They're easy to make and can be customized to your liking. So next time you're looking for a new cocktail to try, give the prickly pear margarita a try. You won't be disappointed!
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