Description
A refreshing margarita with homemade grapefruit mint syrup for a balanced sweet, tart, and citrusy flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice (about 2 large grapefruits)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed fresh mint leaves
- 2 ounces tequila blanco (silver tequila)
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- 1 ounce grapefruit mint syrup (recipe above)
- 1/2 ounce orange liqueur (such as Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- Grapefruit wedge, for garnish
- Mint sprig, for garnish
- Coarse salt or sugar, for rimming (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh grapefruit juice, granulated sugar, and fresh mint leaves.
- Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Infuse the Syrup: Once the sugar is completely dissolved, reduce the heat to low and let the syrup simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to boil the syrup vigorously, as this can affect the flavor.
- Cool and Strain: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the syrup cool completely. This will take about 30-45 minutes. Once cooled, strain the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or container. Discard the mint leaves.
- Store the Syrup: The grapefruit mint syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to label the jar with the date it was made.
- Prepare the Glass (Optional): If desired, prepare the margarita glass by rimming it with salt or sugar. To do this, pour some coarse salt or sugar onto a small plate. Rub a grapefruit wedge around the rim of the glass to moisten it. Then, gently press the rim of the glass into the salt or sugar, coating it evenly.
- Combine Ingredients in a Shaker: In a cocktail shaker, combine the tequila blanco, fresh lime juice, grapefruit mint syrup, and orange liqueur.
- Add Ice: Fill the cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Shake Well: Secure the lid on the cocktail shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This will chill the margarita and properly combine all the ingredients.
- Strain into Glass: Strain the margarita mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice cubes.
- Garnish: Garnish the margarita with a grapefruit wedge and a fresh mint sprig.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the grapefruit mint margarita immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Grapefruit Choice: Ruby Red grapefruits are recommended for a balanced sweetness, but experiment with other varieties.
- Tequila: Use a good quality tequila blanco (silver tequila).
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of grapefruit mint syrup to your preference.
- Orange Liqueur: Cointreau is higher quality, but Triple Sec works well.
- Shaking: Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
- Ice: Use good quality, large ice cubes.
- Garnish: Get creative with garnishes.
- Batch Making: Multiply ingredients and store in a pitcher in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Add ice just before serving.
- Non-Alcoholic: Omit tequila and orange liqueur. Replace with non-alcoholic tequila alternative or more grapefruit and lime juice. Add a splash of sparkling water or club soda.
- Variations: Add other fruits or spices.
- Pairing: Pairs well with Mexican dishes, grilled seafood, salads, and light appetizers.
- Troubleshooting:
- Too Sour: Add more grapefruit mint syrup or agave nectar.
- Too Sweet: Add more lime juice.
- Too Weak: Add more tequila.
- Too Strong: Add more lime juice and grapefruit mint syrup.
- Enjoy Responsibly: Drink in moderation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes