This Tamarind Margarita recipe fuses tangy tamarind and classic margarita flavors. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness and a citrusy kick, this refreshing drink is ideal for any occasion. This post is meant for an audience 21 and over.
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The full recipe with ingredients/instructions is available on the recipe card at the bottom of the post. Important tips/tricks are also included in the blog post.
I love the flavor of Tamarind, and I try to use it in many recipes. Whether it's refreshing tamarind juice or sweetened tamarind ball candies, let's just say tamarind is delish.
I first discovered how great tamarind is in cocktails when I ordered a tamarind-flavored margarita from one of our local Mexican restaurants. The mix of tangy tamarind and classic margarita flavors was unforgettable, making me want to make it at home.
Tamarind margaritas have a unique sweet and sour flavor with a hint of smokiness from the tequila. The tamarind adds a slightly tangy and fruity note that balances the sweetness. It's absolutely delicious.
If you like spins on classic cocktails, you'll love this strawberry basil margarita.
Ingredients Needed for this Margarita
- Tequila - I prefer to use blanco tequila in this recipe. Eposado or añejo tequila can also be used for a more complex flavor profile.
- Tamarind concentrate - a concentrated tamarind mixture. You only want to use a little.
- Lime Juice and Simple Syrup - create the sweet and sour note in the drink.
- Tajin - a chili lime seasoning. I use it to rim the glass. This step is optional or you can rim the glass with salt or sugar.
Bar Tools You Will Need
- cocktail shaker
- ice
- jigger and measuring spoons
- strainer
- rocks glass
How to make a Tamarind Margarita
First, salt your rim. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into a shallow plate of tajin, coarse salt, or sugar, turning to coat.
Add the tequila, tamarind concentrate, lime juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled (about 10-15 seconds).
Fill your prepared glass with ice. Strain the margarita mixture into the glass.
Flavor Variations
- Mezcal: Substitute mezcal for tequila for a smoky flavor profile.
- Agave Nectar: Use agave nectar instead of simple syrup for a more natural sweetness.
- Jalapeño: Muddle a few slices of jalapeño with the other ingredients for a subtle heat.
Tanya's Top Tips
- If you can't find tamarind concentrate, you can use tamarind nectar as a substitute. You could also make your own tamarind concentrate from tamarind pods.
- I highly recommend using the concentrate over tamarind juice in this cocktail recipe.
- It's best to make margaritas fresh for optimal flavor.
- If serving for a crowd, scale up the recipe and mix everything in a large pitcher instead of individual shakes. Do not add the ice. When ready to serve, pour the tamarind margaritas over ice.
FAQs
Tamarind concentrate can be found at international grocery stores, Asian markets, or online. Some larger supermarkets might also carry it.
Yes, you can use tamarind paste. Start with about half the amount (¼ teaspoon) and adjust to taste, as paste is more concentrated.
I hope you enjoy this Tamarind Margarita recipe as much as we do. If you like cocktails, check these out:
If you make this cocktail recipe, please let us know how you like it by leaving a review below. Your feedback is appreciated!
Tamarind Margarita
Ingredients
- 2 ounces blanco tequila
- ½ teaspoon tamarind concentrate
- 1 ounce fresh lime juice
- ½ ounce simple syrup
Instructions
- First, salt your rim. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Dip the rim into a shallow plate of tajin, coarse salt, or sugar, turning to coat.
- Add the tequila, tamarind concentrate, lime juice, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously until well chilled (about 10-15 seconds).
- Fill your prepared glass with ice. Strain the margarita mixture into the glass.
Notes
- I highly recommend using the concentrate over tamarind juice in this cocktail recipe.
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