Blood Orange Margarita Cocktail Recipe

The Blood Orange Margarita is a twist on the classic Margarita, which originated in Mexico in the 1930s. This version features the unique flavor of blood oranges, which are known for their deep red color and rich, berry-like taste. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing, fruity drink with a hint of tartness.

• The Margarita is said to have been created by a bartender named Carlos Herrera in Tijuana, Mexico.
• Blood oranges are native to the Mediterranean region and have become popular in cocktails due to their distinct flavor and color.

The Blood Orange Margarita has a sweet, tart, and slightly bitter taste with a hint of citrus. The blood orange juice adds a rich, fruity flavor that complements the tequila and lime juice, while the orange liqueur adds a touch of sweetness.

• Blood oranges get their red color from anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that may have health benefits.
• The Margarita is one of the most popular cocktails in the world, and there are countless variations on the classic recipe.
• Blood oranges are in season from December to May, making this cocktail a great choice for winter and spring celebrations.

1. Prepare the glass:
   • Wet the rim of a rocks or margarita glass with a lime wedge.
   • Dip the rim in salt to coat it evenly.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the following ingredients:
   • 2oz tequila
   • 1.5oz blood orange juice
   • 0.5oz fresh lime juice
   • 0.5oz orange liqueur
   • 0.5oz simple syrup
   • Add ice to fill the shaker halfway.
3. Shake well until chilled and well-mixed.
4. Fill the prepared glass with fresh ice.
5. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
6. Garnish with a blood orange slice and a mint sprig.

• Use fresh-squeezed blood orange and lime juice for the best flavor.
• Adjust the simple syrup to your preferred level of sweetness.
• For a smoky twist, try using mezcal instead of tequila.

Seafood

• Grilled shrimp or lobster tacos with a hint of lime to complement the citrus notes.
• Fresh oysters can be a delightful contrast with the sweet and acidic nature of the margarita.

Mexican cuisine

• Fish tacos with a fruit salsa to mirror the fruitiness of the blood orange juice.
• Chips and guacamole as the creaminess of the avocado balances the acidity of the cocktail.

Spicy Foods

• Jalapeño poppers or spicy wings. The sweetness of the cocktail can cool down the heat.

Desserts

• A light vanilla-flavored dessert such as panna cotta or flan, allowing the margarita’s citrus notes to shine.

• If blood oranges are not available, you can use regular oranges or a combination of orange and pomegranate juice.
• You can replace the orange liqueur with triple sec or another orange-flavored liqueur.

Smoky Blood Orange Margarita

• Add a 0.5 oz of mezcal for a smoky twist.
• The smokiness adds depth and pairs beautifully with the sweet citrus.

Spicy Blood Orange Margarita

• Muddle a slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients.
• The spice adds a delightful kick that plays well with the blood orange's sweetness.

Herbal Blood Orange Margarita

• Replace the simple syrup with honey syrup and add a sprig of rosemary to the shaker.
• This gives an aromatic herbal twist that complements the citrus while adding a touch of elegance.