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With the perfect blend of tequila, triple sec, lime juice, agave syrup and spicy Tajín seasoning, this Tajín margarita has the perfect smoky flavor.
When it comes to cocktails, the options really are endless - from a vodka sour to a Baileys espresso martini to a black mojito.
But who doesn't love a good margarita? Well this takes the traditional one and adds a spicy/smoky flavor with Tajín seasoning.
Why This Cocktail Works
- It is a spin on a a classic margarita.
- It strikes perfect balance between sweet, sour, bitter, umami and thanks to the Tajín seasoning - smokiness.
- Uses just five ingredients, so it is quick to prepare.
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Ingredient Notes
- Tequila - Go with silver if possible and use your favorite brand.
- Triple sec - An orange liquor that complements the other flavors.
- Limes - Adds the necessary acid/tartness you expect.
- Agave syrup - A traditional ingredient in margaritas that offsets the sourness.
- Tajín seasoning - Adds some spice/smokiness to the margarita.
Ingredient Swaps
As with any recipe, you can mix up the ingredients if you want. Some variations include:
- I always have triple sec in my cabinet, but Cointreau works great as well.
- While limes are more traditional, lemons can be used too.
- I like agave syrup in this Tajín margarita, but honey or sugar can be used as substitutes.
Step-by-Step Photos
Please note full ingredient list and instructions can be found in recipe card below.
Rub the rim of a glass with a lime slice. Dip in Tajín seasoning.
In a cocktail shaker with ice, add the tequila, triple sec, lime juice, agave syrup and Tajín seasoning. Shake for 20 seconds and then pour in the glass with some crushed ice. Garnish with a lime slice.
FAQs
Tajín seasoning is a Mexican blend of chili peppers, lime, and salt, often used to add flavor and spice to fruits, vegetables, snacks, and cocktails like this margarita.
It's known for its tangy and slightly spicy flavors with a touch of smoke.
Silver tequila is bottled right after the distilling process, giving it a stronger agave flavor. Gold tequila is either aged in barrels or has caramel coloring added.
With that said, silver tequila is not only cheaper but better for mixed drinks.
I just like the flavor of agave in this margarita but you can also use sugar or take the time to make a simple syrup.
If you want a frozen margarita, triple the ingredients and add about 5 cups of ice to the blender and blend with the other ingredients.
Best Tequila for Margaritas
Like and liquor, you can go super expensive or quite affordable. Luckily there are plenty of options.
- Roca Patrón Silver – It has a fresh, delicate citrus aroma with a low and balanced alcohol note. It is sweet with notes of black pepper and lime tea.
- Espolòn Blanco – This is a great budget tequila with bright agave flavor and notes of pepper, vanilla bean, grilled pineapple and spice.
- Olmeca Altos – This is my go-to. It has hints of citrus, pepper, sweet agave, fruit, herbal and earthy, with some light floral notes.
Equipment
The equipment you use is important to how the drink turns out. What is needed is the following:
- Cocktail shaker - helps emulsify and keep the margarita ingredients cold when you shake them. You can also stir everything together.
- Margarita glasses - if you want the drinks to look the part you need some margarita glasses but any glass will work.
Pro Tips/Recipe Notes
- Use silver tequila when making the margarita. Gold tequila can muddy the flavor.
- Fresh lime juice is the only way to go. Store-bought doesn't taste as good and is actually more expensive.
- Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup. It takes takes less work and adds additional flavor.
- Use crushed ice which will make the margarita colder quicker.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking as Tajín seasoning can be quite spicy. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
Other Margarita Recipes
If you’ve tried this Tajín margarita or any other recipe on Chisel & Fork, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below! You can also follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube to see more tasty meals and anything else I'm up to.
Tajín Margarita
Ingredients
- 1 ½ oz silver tequila
- 1 oz triple sec
- ¾ oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz agave syrup
- ⅛ teaspoon Tajín seasoning
- lime wedges and Tajín for garnish
Instructions
- Cut a lime and rub edges of glasses with it. Then dip the glasses in a plate that has Tajín seasoning.
- Combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, agave syrup and Tajín in cocktail shaker with ice. Shake for 20 seconds. Strain in a margarita glass and garnish with a sliced lime.
Notes
- Use silver tequila when making the margarita. Gold tequila can muddy the flavor.
- Fresh lime juice is the only way to go. Store-bought doesn't taste as good and is actually more expensive.
- Use agave syrup instead of simple syrup. It takes takes less work and adds additional flavor.
- Use crushed ice which will make the margarita colder quicker.
- Adjust the spice level to your liking as Tajín seasoning can be quite spicy. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
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