Verde Margarita

Mixology is taking a new form. Bartending is no longer just pouring an Old Fashion or mixing a simple Martini like the old days. New devices such as smokers, dehydrators and infused liquors are taking the front of many cocktails. 

As a responsible, adult beverage consumer, we must keep up and stay knowledgeable. There’s a new craze in the mixology world called Ancho Reyes Verde, a chile poblano liqueur. Yes, it’s a mouthful! 

Apparently, it has been the craze for over a year now. However, I was introduced to it in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico a couple of weeks ago. 

I was impressed by how refreshing and flavorful my margarita was. It was smoky and distinct in flavor. Immediately it hit me that it’s Poblano pepper! What? A Poblano pepper is sweet, smoky and I use them to make Chile rellenos. Now it’s in my margarita? Si senor!

We asked the server to bring us a shot. The liqueur has all the qualities of a poblano pepper. I’m not going to lie. Drinking it as a shot was awful. It is an acquired taste to say the least. To each his own! I personally feel that it is intended to be mixed with other ingredients. 

Here’s a fun, easy Verde Margarita recipe to try at home. No fancy equipment needed. 

Verde Margarita – makes one cocktail

INGREDIENTS: 

1.5 oz Blanco Tequila (88 Blanco Tequila)

1 oz. Ancho Reyes Verde 

1 oz. lime juice

.75 oz Agave nectar 

Sprig of thyme

Pour over ice in a shaker and shake vigorously. 

Pour into a chilled martini glass. 

Garnish with a sprig of thyme.

Rosie O’Connor is the award-winning Chef-Owner of Provecho Grill and has appeared on The Cooking Channel’s Farmer’s Market Flip and has been featured in TV spots and commercials for companies like SoCal Gas. On her blog, ChefRosie.com, she publishes food stories & recipes.

Follow Chef Rosie:

Instagram @chefrosie

Twitter @ChefRosieO

Facebook: Chef Rosie O’Connor

YouTube: Chef Rosie