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This Hot Honey Spicy Mango Margarita is a summer cocktail that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy. Creamy mango puree blends with a splash of hot honey, vibrant tequila, bright citrus, and orange liqueur. The chili lime rim gives every sip a little spark. Whether for poolside lounging or a backyard barbecue, this drink promises a bold new twist on the classic margarita.
I was inspired to try this after tasting both spicy honey and mango drinks on vacation and wished they could exist together. Now, it is my default signature for gatherings because my friends always ask for another round.
Ingredients
- Mango chunks: bring natural sweetness and a lush tropical flavor. Fresh or frozen mango works as long as it is ripe and fragrant.
- Water: helps blend the puree smoothly so the drink pours like silk.
- Sugar: rounds out the tartness and accentuates the mango. Taste your mango before adding and adjust if it is super sweet.
- Tequila: acts as the heart of the margarita. Choose a mid-range blanco for best flavor and budget.
- Lime juice: offers acidity and brings bright contrast to the drink. Use freshly squeezed lime for the best taste.
- Cointreau or any orange liqueur: weaves in citrus complexity and a little bit of depth.
- Hot honey: is the star for a gentle kick. Look for local brands for richer honey flavor and balanced heat.
- Lime wedges and chili lime seasoning: turn the rim into a flavor explosion and add extra zest.
- Fresh mango chunks: make a juicy garnish that soaks up a little of the chili lime sprinkle.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Mango Puree:
- Combine mango chunks with water and sugar in a blender. Puree until completely smooth with no lumps remaining. This ensures even sweetness and a silky texture in the cocktail.
- Prepare the Glass Rim:
- Spread chili lime seasoning onto a small plate. Rub a lime wedge around the rim of your glass. Gently press the glass rim into the seasoning so it clings evenly and forms a flavorful crust.
- Assemble and Shake the Margarita:
- Fill your prepared glass with ice to the top. In a cocktail shaker add tequila lime juice Cointreau mango puree and hot honey. Cover tightly and shake very hard for about 15 seconds. This chills the drink and blends the honey evenly for a balanced kick.
- Strain and Garnish:
- Strain your margarita into the ice-filled prepared glass. Top with a fresh lime wedge and a few mango chunks brushed or sprinkled with chili lime seasoning.
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I cannot resist the chili lime rim because it makes every sip a little celebration. The first time my sister tried this margarita she declared it the happiest summer drink and insisted it make an encore appearance every summer barbecue.
Storage Tips
Mango puree can be made ahead and stored for two days in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good stir before using. Margarita mixture does not keep well after shaking so mix just before serving for best flavor and texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use agave syrup with a pinch of cayenne instead of hot honey for a similar sweet heat profile. Triple Sec is a decent stand in if you cannot find Cointreau. Frozen mango is perfect and actually blends smoother when partially thawed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this margarita ice cold in short glasses with extra lime wedges. Add a platter of salty tortilla chips or tangy shrimp tacos for a true fiesta feeling. For a fun garnish skewer a cube of mango and a jalapeno slice on a cocktail pick.
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Cultural Context
The classic margarita has roots in Mexican cocktail culture and pairing it with tropical fruits like mango and spice is modern but strongly inspired by Mexican street snacks. The chili lime rim pays homage to popular fruit cart treats where tangy salty spice is used to brighten sweet fresh fruit.
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is the hot honey mango margarita?
The spice level depends on the hot honey’s intensity and how much you use. Start with less and adjust to taste for a gentle heat balanced by the sweet mango and citrus.
- → Can I use store-bought mango puree?
Yes, store-bought purée is a time-saving alternative. Just ensure it’s 100% mango and unsweetened, or adjust the sugar to balance the flavors.
- → What’s the best tequila for this cocktail?
Blanco or silver tequila works perfectly, as its crisp flavor allows the spicy and fruity notes to shine through without overpowering the drink.
- → How do I make the chili lime rim?
Rub a lime wedge around the glass rim, then dip the rim into a plate of chili lime seasoning for a savory, tangy crust that complements the cocktail’s flavors.
- → What can I use instead of hot honey?
If hot honey isn’t available, mix regular honey with a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to create a similar effect for that spicy kick.