Spicy Non-Alcoholic Margarita

Food, Styling & Photo: Oliver Schwarzwald

Kick it!

There is a new trend in the world of non-alcoholic spirits that now makes my heart beat faster: non-alcoholic mezcal. Read here why? With its distinct smoky aroma, it brings a fascinating depth to non-alcoholic cocktails. However, despite its complexity, many notice that it often lacks the spiciness that makes the palate dance and leaves a warming aftertaste in the throat. The solution? My homemade, spicy blood orange syrup, which takes any non-alcoholic mezcal to the next level.

Why blood orange syrup?

Blood oranges are known for their deep red color and unique flavor blend of sweet and bitter notes. These characteristics make them a perfect candidate for a syrup that brings not only sweetness but also character to drinks. Anyone who follows my blog knows that I am a fan of blood oranges! If we then refine this syrup with jalapeno, cinnamon and nutmeg, we get a versatile add-on that gives any non-alcoholic mezcal the desired depth and warmth. So let's get started:

• 240 ml (fresh) blood orange juice

• 1 sliced jalapeno

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 120ml honey

Bring all the ingredients to the boil briefly and then leave to cool to room temperature. Then strain everything into a clean container.

The drink

• 8 cl non-alcoholic mezcal

• 4 cl spicy blood oregano syrup

• 2 cl fresh lime juice

• ice

Optional: salt or spice mix for the rim of the glass.

See video for instructions

Rim the glass. I.e. first coat the rim of the glass with lime, then turn in salt or a spice mix. Then fill with ice to chill the glass.

Fill the shaker with ice and ingredients. Shake vigorously. Remove the ice from the glass and strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.

Cheers!