Hibiscus Margarita

A Hibiscus Margarita with Mezcal offers a delightful twist on the classic margarita, featuring the smoky flavor of mezcal and the tart, floral notes of hibiscus.

Ingredients:

2 oz (60 ml) Mezcal Joven (you can also use a mix of tequila and mezcal, 1 oz each, if you prefer a milder smoky flavor)
1 oz (30 ml) hibiscus syrup (see instructions below for homemade hibiscus syrup)
1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice
1/2 oz (15 ml) Cointreau or triple sec
Ice
Salt and dried hibiscus flowers for rimming the glass (optional)
Lime wheel or wedge for garnish
Hibiscus flower for garnish (optional)

Instructions for Hibiscus Syrup:

In a saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) water, 1 cup (200 g) sugar, and 1 cup (40 g) dried hibiscus flowers.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool down.
Strain the syrup to remove the hibiscus flowers and store the syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The syrup should keep for up to 2 weeks.

Instructions for Hibiscus Margarita with Mezcal:

Prepare the glass by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim, then dipping it in a mixture of salt and crushed dried hibiscus flowers.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add the mezcal, hibiscus syrup, lime juice, and Cointreau or triple sec to the shaker.
Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with ice.
Garnish with a lime wheel or wedge, and an optional hibiscus flower.

Savor the unique flavors and stunning appearance of your Hibiscus Margarita!