Sometimes all you need is a margarita and this watermelon-based version is a great summer alternative to the classic citrus-based drink. This recipe needs to be started a couple of days in advance to give the tequila and watermelon time to infuse.
It’s a refreshingly sweet, but not too sweet, drink with the bitter lemon balancing the sweetness without overpowering the delicate flavour of the melon.
Ingredients and Methods
Ingredients
- 120ml watermelon infused tequila
- 1 cup crushed ice
- 60ml bitter lemon drink
- 30ml Cointreau
- 3 or 4 cubes of tequila marinated watermelon
- Several small watermelon wedges, to garnish
For the watermelon infused tequila
- 750ml blanco tequila
- 1kg seedless watermelon, cubed
Instructions
To make the watermelon infused tequila, pour the tequila into a 2 litre jar with a lid. Top up with watermelon cubes. Seal and set aside, gently shaking occasionally, for at least 2 days or up to a week. Strain, returning liquid to the original bottle. Reserve tequila infused watermelon for making the cocktail.
Combine the watermelon infused tequila with crushed ice, bitter lemon, Cointreau and marinated watermelon in a blender or vitamiser and blend until smooth.
Pour into chilled margarita glasses and garnish with watermelon wedges.
Chef Paul Wilson
