By Kacey Perez @thehouseofperezblog.com
There are a few different ways to incorporate jalapeno into a cocktail to add heat. Jalapeños are easy to muddle in a cocktail glass or right in the shaker and it will definitely add some heat. But for a little more control over how spicy things get, I like to add the spice right into the simple syrup. For this spicy margarita recipe the only ingredient that changes is the addition of jalapeños and cilantro.
Ingredients
The Simple Syrup
• 3 small cucumbers, thinly sliced (grab the burpless English variety)
• 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced (add more if you like it hot)
• Bunch of cilantro, chopped.
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
The Margarita
• 1.5 cups tequila blanco
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice.
• 1 cup simple syrup (or to taste)
• Ice
• Salt for the glasses
• Lime wedges and snap peas for garnish
Instructions
• Slice the cucumbers and jalapeños. You can rid of the jalapeño seeds or keep a few around for the extra kick.
• Add the sliced cucumbers and jalapeños into a bowl and gently muddle to release some of those flavors.
• Add the sugar and water to a saucepan and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer.
• Add the muddled concoction and bunch of chopped cilantro (omit if you don’t like cilantro) to the sugar water and continue to simmer until sugar is completely dissolved, plus a little longer to steep the flavors.
• Pull off the burner and let cool.
• Run a wedge of lime around all the glasses and dip the rims in salt (if desired).
• Add ice to the pitcher and add tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup. Gently stir to combine.
• Add ice to each of the glasses and pour the margaritas. Garnish with extra lime wedges and snap peas. Serve immediately and enjoy!
