Blackberry Jalapeno Margarita

Serves: 4

INGREDIENTS:

·       ¾ cup tequila

·       ½ cup triple sec or grand Marnier

·       ½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice

·       1 cup blackberry Jalapeno Syrup (see below)

·       ice cubes

·       1 cup granulated sugar

·       1 cup water

·       1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries, more for garnish

·       1 ½ - 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and minced

·       Lime wedges and about ¼ cup granulated sugar, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1.    To make the Blackberry Jalapeno Syrup: Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.

2.    To a blender, add the blackberries and jalapenos. Pour in the simple syrup and blend until smooth. Strain mixture through a fine mesh strainer into an airtight container or mason jar. Refrigerate until ready to use. Note: mix can be refrigerated up to 1 week.

3.    To make the margaritas: Rim 4 glasses with a lime wedge and then dip them into a dish filled with sugar. Upright the glasses and fill them with ice.

Fill a cocktail shaker or pitcher with a cup of ice. Add the tequila, triple sec or grand Marnier, lime juice and 1 cup of the chilled Blackberry Jalapeno syrup. Shake or stir vigorously then strain the ice and pour margaritas into the prepared glasses.

4.    Garnish with fresh blackberries and lime wedges.