Cinco de Mayo is fast approaching and I want to share my new favourite cocktail, the Tequila Sour, with you! It's light and citrusy, and a great alternative to the classic Margarita (see my Mezcal version here) or the Oaxacan Old Fashioned (here).
A "sour" cocktail has a very simple formula: a spirit + citurs (sour) + simple syrup (sweet) + bitters + egg white (optional, but it really adds a smoothness to this cocktail!). For this Tequila Sour, I've combined tequila + lemon juice + simple syrup + bitters + egg white. I think the lemon juice just brightens up the flavours and takes it away from the traditional margarita profile of tequila + lime. Orange bitters would also make a nice addition to this drink. I'd start with 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters + 2 dashes or Orange Bitters in each drink.
Cinco de Mayo (which translates to May 5th) is an annual day of celebration of Mexican culture and heritage. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated in both Mexico and many North American cities, with culture, heritage, music and food recognized and honoured.
May 5th also happens to be a brilliant time of year here in Vancouver - the days are longer and the sun is shining - perfect conditions to celebrate everything Mexico. As the province of BC is still only allowing family groupings bubbles/gatherings (due to Covid), my small family is going to be sipping these Tequila Sours and enjoying loads of grilled chicken and vegetables at our Build-Your-Own Fajita Bar (recipe coming this week).
I hope you and your "house bubble" take a bit of time on May 5th to appreciate Mexican food, culture and heritage.
Feliz Cinco de Mayo!
Krista xo
Tequila Sours
makes 1 drink
Ingredients
2 oz tequila (añejo or aged)
3/4 oz simple syrup (1:1 ratio of sugar:water heated until sugar dissolves and liquid turns into syrup)
3/4 oz lemon juice, fresh squeezed
3 dashes of Angostura bitters
1 egg white
orange peel twist, garnish
Method
In a cocktail tin add tequila, simple syrup, lemon juice, bitters and egg white. Dry shake for 30 seconds. This step is important as it's how the egg white froths. Remove cocktail tin lid and add ice. Place lid back on and shake tin for a second time, until outside of cocktail tin becomes chilled - about 20-30 seconds. Strain cocktail into a coupe glass and garnish with orange peel twist.
Don't forget to pair your Tequila Sour with some of the great Cinco De Mayo recipes in this round-up (here) or try it with your very own Fajita Bar! Enjoy!
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