Best Spicy Blood Orange Margarita Recipe

This spicy blood orange margarita has the best flavor profile. Delicious hints of sweet citrus with the spicy bite of fresh jalapeño and hot honey.

This spicy margarita has fresh jalapeño, blood orange, and lime juice to make it a delicious drink. I used reposado tequila to deepen the flavors and rimmed the glass with hot honey and tajin. This delicious drink has fresh flavors and a bit of spice in every sip.

You can play with the spice until you get it just right. I like a hint of spice, so I use 1 fresh jalapeño slice in the shaker and as a garnish in the drink.

What is Reposado Tequila?

Reposado tequila is a type of tequila that has been aged in oak barrels for a specific period, typically between two months and one year. The word “reposado” translates to “rested” in Spanish, reflecting the aging process that imparts distinct flavors and characteristics to the tequila.

During the aging period in the barrels, reposado tequila undergoes subtle changes in color, flavor, and aroma. The interaction with the wood contributes to a smoother and more complex taste compared to blanco (unaged) tequila. Reposado tequila is often characterized by a pale to medium gold hue and a balance of the agave’s natural sweetness with the influence of the oak.

It’s important to note that there are different types of tequila, including blanco (white or silver), reposado, añejo, and extra añejo, each with varying aging periods and characteristics. Reposado tequila falls between blanco and añejo in terms of aging duration and flavor profile.

You can use silver tequila for this margarita, I prefer using reposado tequila since it has a deeper flavor profile that really compliments the spice in this spicy blood orange margarita.

What does a blood orange taste like?

A blood orange has a flavor profile that is similar to that of a regular orange but with distinctive and unique characteristics. Blood oranges are known for their rich, sweet, and tart taste, which sets them apart from other orange varieties.

The flavor is often described as a sweet citrusy base with berry-like undertones. What makes blood oranges stand out is the presence of anthocyanins, natural pigments responsible for the fruit’s deep red to crimson color. These pigments contribute a subtle raspberry or berry-like flavor, adding complexity to the overall taste.

In addition to their unique flavor, blood oranges are appreciated for their vibrant color, which can vary from deep red to almost purple. This makes them not only delicious but also visually appealing. They are commonly enjoyed fresh, juiced, or used in various culinary applications to enhance both the flavor and appearance of dishes and beverages.

Blood oranges are typically in season from late winter to early spring, with their peak availability occurring from December to April in the Northern Hemisphere. However, the exact timing of the season can vary depending on the specific variety of blood orange and the region where they are grown.

You can buy blood oranges from a local grocery store. It is best to buy when they are in season for peak freshness.

What flavors pair well with spicy jalapeño?

Jalapeño, with its heat and savory undertones, pairs well with a variety of fruit flavors that can complement and balance its spiciness. Here are some fruit flavors that work well with jalapeño:

1. Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits like lime, lemon, and orange can add a zesty and refreshing contrast to the heat of jalapeños. Citrus juices or zest can be used in salsas, marinades, or dressings.
2. Pineapple: The sweetness and tropical notes of pineapple can balance the spiciness of jalapeño. Pineapple salsa or grilled jalapeño-pineapple skewers are popular combinations.
3. Mango: Mango’s sweetness and slightly tart flavor provide a delicious contrast to jalapeño heat. Mango and jalapeño salsa is a popular choice for various dishes.
4. Peach: The natural sweetness of peaches can complement the spiciness of jalapeños. Peach and jalapeño chutney or salsa work well with grilled meats or as a topping.
5. Watermelon: The juicy and refreshing quality of watermelon can provide a cooling effect against the heat of jalapeños. Watermelon and jalapeño salad is a unique and tasty combination.
6. Berries: Berries like strawberries or blueberries can add a sweet and slightly tart element that pairs well with jalapeño. Consider incorporating them into salsas or sauces.
7. Papaya: The tropical sweetness and creamy texture of papaya can be a good match for jalapeño. It can be used in salsas or as part of a spicy fruit salad.

My favorite way to create a spicy margarita is to pair one of these flavors with fresh jalapeño. You can play with the spice and sweetness level by incorporating more or less jalapeño slices. This spicy blood orange margarita has the perfect amount of sweet tart citrus with the spicy bite of jalapeño.

More Yummy Margarita recipes:

Ingredients for Spicy Blood Orange Margarita:

1.5 oz Reposado Tequila (I used Kah Tequila)

1/2 oz Triple Sec

1/2 oz fresh squeezed lime juice

1 oz fresh squeezed blood orange juice

1/2 oz simple syrup

dash of hot honey

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