Quarantini | Blackberry Jalapeno Margarita

This libation will make a great addition to any Cinco de Mayo festivities you may be planning at home and pairs perfectly with this week’s Crispy Shrimp Tacos.

INGREDIENTS:

• ¾ cup Tres Agaves tequila
• ½ cup triple sec or grand marnier
• ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 cup blackberry Jalapeno Syrup (see below)
• ice cubes
• sugar for the rim
• fresh blackberries and lime wedges for garnish

Blackberry Jalapeno Syrup (makes 1 1/2 cups)

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
• 2 jalapeno peppers, minced

DIRECTIONS:

1. To make the syrup: Combine the sugar and water in a small pot and bring to a brief boil over medium heat.
2. Transfer the syrup to a blender and add the blackberries and the jalapenos. Blend until smooth. To extract the seeds, pour through a fine mesh strainer into an airtight container or mason jar. Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
3. To make the margaritas: Rim 4 glasses with a lime wedge and then dip them into a dish filled with sugar. Upright the glasses and fill them with ice.
4. Fill a cocktail shaker with the tequila, triple sec, lime juice and 1 cup of the Blackberry Jalapeno syrup, plus a handful of ice. Shake vigorously and strain the margaritas into the prepared glasses.
5. Garnish with fresh blackberries and lime wedges and serve.

Makes 4 drinks