A Zesty Twist: The Best Bitter Orange Margarita You Can Make at Home

The classic mix of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec is always a hit for margaritas. But if you want to elevate your margarita game and add a sophisticated twist, look no further than the Bitter Orange Margarita. This cocktail uses bitter orange to add a unique, zesty flavor that is perfect for any occasion.

Bitter orange, also known as Seville orange, has a tart and slightly bitter taste that sets it apart from sweet oranges. It’s often used in marmalades and liqueurs like Cointreau and Grand Marnier. The bold flavor of bitter orange can take a regular margarita to the next level.

The Bitter Orange Margarita offers a nice balance of flavors. The bitterness of the orange contrasts with the sweetness, making it a refreshing and exciting drink. It’s a great choice if you want to try something different and impress your friends.

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Food Pairings

This margarita pairs well with spicy foods like tacos or a fresh mango salsa. The bitterness of the drink enhances the flavors of these dishes, making your meal even more enjoyable.

Bitter Orange Margarita Ingredients

1. Tequila
2. Cointreau
3. Bitter Orange Liqueur
4. Simple Syrup
5. Lime Juice
6. Lemon Juice
7. Agave, Salt and Sugar for rimming the glasses
8. Dehydrated Orange Slice for Garnish

Tips

I’m using Patron Silver for my margaritas because I had no Reposado Tequila at home.

Michelle from the Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend, Tennessee, uses a Bitter Orange Liqueur from Tennessee. I had a bottle of Amaro Nonino that I used for another cocktail recipe, which is a type of Bitter Orange Liqueur.

As Michelle states in the YouTube video, this drink tastes best rimmed in both sugar and salt.

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Bar Tools

Here are awesome products to help YOU make the most incredible drinks. Impress your family and friends and be the BEST Cocktail Barista in your neighborhood.

Need a great Cocktail Shaker but don’t know which one to buy? Look no further.

Martini or cocktail, a good shake makes all the difference in the world so buying a cocktail shaker can seriously step up your at-home drink game. Think about it: no more settling for boring mixed drinks when you can whip up bar-quality cocktails in your kitchen. It’s not just about the fancy presentation (although that’s a fun bonus) but also about how it makes mixing drinks easier and more fun. 

I have at least a dozen shakers, but one favorite. The shaker doesn’t leak; you won’t have to hit the shaker against the sink to get the top off, and the cap will measure from 1/2 to 1.5 ounces with clearly marked labels. Measure the perfect amount every time. And it is dishwasher safe!

Plus, once you get the hang of shaking, you’ll feel like a total pro, impressing your friends and yourself with your newfound bartending skills. So why not add a little shake, shake, shake to your life and upgrade your happy hour?

Another handy bar tool is the citrus juicer. Unless you free pour and don’t measure, this citrus juicer makes measuring citrus juices like limes and lemons, a breeze. Measure the perfect amount every time.

How to Make a Bitter Orange Margarita

Prepare the glass. Michelle rims her glass with salt and sugar. On separate small plates, place 2 tablespoons of Agave Nectar, 1 tablespoon of margarita salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar.

Dip the glass in the agave nectar first, then into the sugar and then salt. 

In a cocktail shaker half full of ice, combine the Tequila, Bitter Orange Liqueur, Cointreau, Simple Syrup, lime and lemon juices.

Shake well for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is cold.

Pour the contents of the shaker into your rimmed glass.

Garnish with a dehydrated orange slice.

Whether it’s a sunny summer day or a cozy winter night, the Bitter Orange Margarita is a great choice. Its unique taste makes it a fun and versatile cocktail you can enjoy year-round. Next time you’re in the mood for a margarita with a twist, try a Bitter Orange Margarita. Cheers!

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