The Empirical Cilantro "Al Pastor" Margarita
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CLASSIC WITH A TWIST
About the Al Pastor Margarita
Inspired by the flavors of the classic al pastor taco, this is a fruity, herbaceous Margarita that leans into Empirical Cilantro and Chinola’s pineapple richness, with lime keeping everything taut and bright. The optional Serrano Agave brings gentle heat and an extra vegetal edge; for a drier or less spicy rendition, simply reduce or omit the agave and/or serrano. Finish it with an optional coriander salt rim for a savory-citrus lift that makes the whole thing snap.
Individual Serve
Ingredients
- 3/4 oz Empirical Cilantro
- 3/4 oz Chinola Pineapple
- 3/4 oz Blanco Tequila
- 3/4 oz Lime Juice
- 1/3 oz Serrano Agave (see below)
- Cubed Ice
- Pineapple Wedge, coriander salt rim (see below, optional)
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and shake until well chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge, a coriander salt rim, or both.
Serrano Agave (makes ~5 oz)
Ingredients
- 4 oz (1/2 cup) Agave Nectar
- 1 oz Water
- 1 Serrano Pepper, sliced into rings
Instructions
Slice pepper into rings. Warm agave nectar and water on the stovetop. Once bubbles form, remove from heat and add serrano slices. Let infuse for 10 minutes, then strain out the serrano. Seal in a container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Coriander Salt (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 part Salt
- 1 part Coriander Seed
Instructions
Measure equal amounts of salt and coriander seed. Grind/blend coriander seed until it’s roughly the same size as the salt you’re using. Add salt and grind/blend briefly to integrate.
Al Pastor Party Pitcher (makes 8)
Ingredients
- 6 oz Empirical Cilantro
- 6 oz Chinola Pineapple
- 6 oz Blanco Tequila
- 6 oz Lime Juice
- 2 1/3 oz Serrano Agave
- Cubed Ice
- Pineapple Wedges, coriander salt rim (optional)
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a pitcher (at least 22 oz). Before adding ice, stir vigorously to integrate. Add a handful of ice and stir vigorously again to chill. Finally, top the pitcher with ice and serve (rim glasses with coriander salt and garnish with pineapple as desired).