Get ready to shake things up with Tia Marta, the refreshing tequila drink that's perfect for any occasion. Made with tequila silver, lime juice, agave nectar, grapes, and basil leaves, this cocktail is a must-try for any beginning bartender. Don't worry if you don't have all the equipment, a simple wooden spoon will do the trick. Serve in a rocks glass and garnish with more grapes and basil for a drink that's as delicious as it is eye-catching.
Tia Marta Ingredients
- 1-1/2 oz Tequila Silver
- 3/4 oz Lime juice
- 1/2 oz Agave Nectar
- 4 Grape
- 3 leaves Basil
- garnish Grapes, Basil
Tia Marta Equipment
- shaker with strainer - get rid of large pieces of ingredients (ex: fruit parts, seeds)
- muddler - don't give up when you don't have one, wooden spoon will save you
- juicer, squeezer manual or automatic - if you mind using fresh juice
Tia Marta Recipe
- consider making fresh Lime juice you can press fruit yourself (be careful - fresh juice stays good only 12 hours)
- fill a shaker halfway with ice cubes to cool the ingredients properly
- shake till perfectly chilled
- serve in Rocks glass half full with ice cubes
- use Grapes, Basil for garnish
Recommend: serve in Rocks glass
It's also called a "lowball", "whiskey" or "old-fashioned" glass. The bottom of old-fashioned glass is thick. Rocks glasses carry between 6 and 8 ounces.The Margarita: A Classic Cocktail that Continues to Thrive
If there is one cocktail that has stood the test of time and continues to be a crowd favorite, it is the Margarita. This delicious and refreshing beverage has been around for over 80 years and has become one of the most popular cocktails across the globe. In this article, we will delve into the Margarita's history, its ingredients, how to garnish it, its various variations, and common mistakes to avoid when making it.
Popularity
The Margarita has its roots in Mexico, where it was first created in the late 1930s or early 1940s. Its origins are still a topic of debate, with several stories floating around. One story suggests that the Margarita was first made by a socialite named Margarita Sames in Acapulco, who mixed tequila, lime, and Cointreau. Another story claims that it was first created by a bartender named Carlos "Danny" Herrera, who made it for a customer who preferred tequila but didn't like it straight up. Regardless of its origins, the Margarita has become a staple cocktail in bars and restaurants worldwide.
The Margarita is famous for its sweet and sour taste, which comes from its primary ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and agave nectar. It is typically served in a salt-rimmed glass, which adds a unique flavor to the drink and gives it an unmistakable appearance. The Margarita is also famous for its versatility, as it can be served in various ways like frozen, on the rocks, or straight up.
Ingredient Roles
The Margarita's ingredients play a crucial role in the cocktail's overall taste and experience. The Tia Marta Margarita recipe calls for Tequila Silver, Lime juice, Agave Nectar, Grapes, and Basil. Tequila Silver is a clear and unaged tequila that is perfect for cocktails. It has a smooth and clean taste that pairs well with the other ingredients. Lime juice is essential for the Margarita's sour taste, and the amount used depends on the individual's preference. Agave Nectar is a natural sweetener that is used instead of simple syrup in the Tia Marta recipe. It is made from the same plant that tequila is made from and pairs well with the tequila's flavor.
Grapes and Basil are unique ingredients that add a fruity and herbal twist to the Margarita. The grapes add a subtle sweetness and a juicy texture, while the basil adds a refreshing and aromatic flavor. When making the Margarita, it's important to remember that the quality of the ingredients affects the overall taste and experience of the cocktail. Always try to use fresh and high-quality ingredients.
How to Garnish
Garnishing is an essential part of making a Margarita. It adds a visually appealing touch to the cocktail and enhances its overall taste. The Tia Marta recipe suggests garnishing the Margarita with grapes and basil. Adding grapes gives the cocktail a pop of color and texture, while the basil adds a refreshing aroma and flavor.
To garnish the Margarita, start by cutting a few grapes in half and threading them onto a cocktail pick. Then, take a few basil leaves, clap them between your hands to release the aroma, and place them on top of the grapes. Finally, place the cocktail pick on the rim of the glass and serve. This garnish not only looks beautiful but also adds a unique flavor to the Margarita.
Variations
The Margarita's versatility allows for several variations, making it possible to cater to various dietary requirements and preferences. Here are a few variations that you can try:
Virgin/Mocktail Version
To make the Virgin/Mocktail Margarita, replace the tequila with an equal amount of orange juice. This version is perfect for those who don't consume alcohol or want to enjoy a refreshing drink without the buzz.
Gluten-Free Version
To make the Gluten-Free Margarita, use a tequila brand that is certified gluten-free, such as Tres Agaves, Casamigos, or Hornitos. You can also use agave nectar instead of simple syrup, which is often made from corn syrup.
Vegan Version
To make the Vegan Margarita, use agave nectar instead of honey and ensure that the tequila used is vegan-friendly. Some tequila brands use animal-derived products in their production process, so always check the label before purchasing.
Keto Version
To make the Keto Margarita, use a low-carb sweetener like Stevia instead of agave nectar and ensure that the tequila used is unflavored and unaged. Flavored tequilas often have added sugars, which can increase the carb count.
Low-Calorie Version
To make the Low-Calorie Margarita, use fresh lime juice instead of sweet and sour mix and agave nectar instead of simple syrup. You can also use a sugar-free sweetener like Stevia to reduce the calorie count further.
Common Mistakes when Making
Making the perfect Margarita can be a daunting task, especially if you're new to bartending. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making the Margarita:
- Using low-quality tequila: Always use high-quality tequila that is made from 100% agave. Cheap tequila often has a harsh taste and can ruin the cocktail's overall flavor.
- Not using fresh lime juice: Fresh lime juice is essential for the Margarita's sour taste. Avoid using bottled lime juice, as it often has added preservatives that can affect the cocktail's taste.
- Overshaking the cocktail: Shaking the Margarita too vigorously can dilute the cocktail and diminish its flavor. Always shake the cocktail gently and for no more than 10-15 seconds.
- Not rimming the glass with salt correctly: Rimming the glass with salt is an essential part of making the Margarita. However, if you don't do it correctly, it can ruin the cocktail's overall taste. Always use coarse salt and rim only the outer edge of the glass.
In conclusion, the Margarita is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time and continues to be a crowd favorite. With its sweet and sour taste, unique appearance, and versatility, it's no wonder that the Margarita is one of the most popular cocktails worldwide. By following the Tia Marta recipe and avoiding common mistakes, you can make the perfect Margarita every time. So, grab your shaker, muddler, and fresh ingredients, and let's get shaking!
If you are going to order Tia Marta in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Tia Marta can be served with different ingredients in different places.
