Our family loves margaritas. Always has. There is just something about them… In the middle of January they tend to make you dream of warm places and nicer weather. Here’s a super simple and pretty tasty rendition of the classic that will almost make you feel that tropical breeze.
2 cups plus a couple healthy splashes tequila
1 or 2 habanero chiles, halved
Kosher salt
6 cups fresh pink grapefruit juice
Pour the tequila into a large pitcher and add the chiles. Let them steep for up to three hours, or longer if you are feeling brave. Yes, it really does impart a searing heat if you leave them in too long. And remember to fish the chiles out. You don’t want that girl you are trying to impress munching down on a habanero while you’re trying to make your move. Rim several glasses with the kosher salt, add grapefruit juice, stir and serve.
Fresh grapefruit juice is key to this recipe. Go to somewhere like Costco and get a big bag of grapefruit to squeeze yourself. It’s worth the trouble and expense, trust me.
If you are try it and like it, steep an entire bottle of tequila and have it on hand for when the mood strikes. Word of the wise, don’t put the chiles in the bottle itself. You will never get those out. Pour it out, steep it, then put it back in the bottle. Experiment with some different chiles too, they can all impart some different and interesting flavors to tequila.
If you look out your window and see nothing but snow and ice (or gray and rain), take heart. Only five more months till summer.
