Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
300 | 0g | 0g | 42g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
36g | 0g | 0g | 0.01g |
There’s something unforgettably refreshing about the first sip of a well-executed margarita. It has just the right mix of sweet and sour, strong and sublime. Today I’m sharing one of my personal favorites – the Tamarind Margarita. It’s a concoction that brings the vibrant flavors of a classic margarita but fuses them with the exotic tang of tamarind, a taste that’s nostalgic yet new.
Tamarind Margarita: A Cocktail Fused with Flavour
Originating from Mexico, the tamarind fruit boasts a sweet and sour profile which lends itself beautifully to tons of traditional South Asian and Latin American dishes. It’s not something you typically find in a classic New York bagel shop, but that doesn’t mean it cannot leave a lasting impact on a savvy New Yorker’s palate! As a native of this robust city, I love blending diverse flavors, and this cocktail does that to a tee.
Much like the multicultural tapestry of New York, the Tamarind Margarita is a blend of diverse ingredients, each lending their unique taste to a harmonious whole. The sour tinge of the lime dancing with the sweetness of the tamarind concentrate makes your tastebuds sit up and take notice, while the tequila adds that bold punch.
A Sip of Health
Let’s not forget, this cocktail has some hidden health benefits too. Tamarind is rich in various nutrients including vitamin C, E, and B, potassium, magnesium, and iron. High in fiber and low in calories, it’s perfect for those who like to keep their waistline in check while they wind down (in moderation, of course!).
And what about lime juice? The fact that it’s a trove of antioxidants and enhances digestion is just a cherry (lime?) on top of this delicious cocktail. Indeed, Healthline even pegs it as a powerful immune booster. Who would have thought your cocktail could be health-conducive!
Perfect Pairings
The Tamarind Margarita might stand out in comparison to other classic cocktails, but the flavor profile of tamarind works incredibly well with a range of dishes. Particularly, it pairs exceptionally well with spicy Mexican food like enchiladas or tacos, but also Indian curries or Thai dishes. The tanginess of the tamarind works as a palate cleanser, cutting through the richness of these foods and providing a much-needed refreshment. Give it a whirl next time you’re serving up spicy cuisine.
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or a simple lover of unique flavors, this Tamarind Margarita recipe is definitely worth a taste. Cheers to diversity and a cocktail that embodies the spirit of a city like New York – colorful, eclectic, and a little surprising!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 cups of fresh lime juice
- 1 cup of tamarind concentrate
- 1 cup of tequila
- 0.5 cup of orange liqueur (such as Cointreau)
- 2 tablespoons of superfine sugar
- 6 cups of crushed ice
- 6 tamarind straws or cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
- 6 lime wedges (for garnish)
- Sea salt (for rimming the glasses)
- Chili Powder (optional, for rimming the glasses)
Method
Step One
Start by getting a shallow bowl and mix sea salt with chili powder (if using). Wet the rim of each of your margarita glasses using one of the lime wedges and then dip into the salt and chili mixture to coat.
Step Two
In a blender, combine the fresh lime juice, tamarind concentrate, tequila, orange liqueur, and sugar.
Step Three
Blend until the sugar gets fully dissolved.
Step Four
Add the crushed ice to the blender and blend until the mixture has become smooth.
Step Five
Remove from the blender and pour into your rimmed margarita glasses.
Step Six
For the final touch, garnish each of your margaritas with a tamarind straw or cinnamon stick and a lime wedge.