Curious Autumn No. 1 :: Spicy Apple Cider Margarita

Posted by Christina Nalval on November 17, 2016

INGREDIENTS

3 ounces pepper + citrus shrub

3 ounces fresh pressed apple cider

Soda water to taste

Cortland (or local) apple garnish

TO PREPARE PEPPER CITRUS SHRUB

Bring 4 ounces of water and 1 medium serrano pepper (or large jalapeño), including seeds to a boil. Remove from heat. Steep 5 minutes. Strain. Add 4 ounces agave nectar. Stir to combine and let cool. Then add 3 ounces fresh lime juice, 1 ounce orange juice, 1 ounce organic distilled white vinegar*. (Makes shrub for 4 drinks)

TO BUILD DRINK

Add pepper citrus shrub, then add apple cider and 5-7 ice cubes into a mixing glass or shaker. Shake and strain into mason jar filled with ice. Top with 1-2 ounces of soda water and add Cortland (or Fuji) apple slice for garnish. Serve with metal straw (one fewer thing to throw away)!

*Important caveat: some vinegars have trace amounts (1-2% ABV). If you want to make 100% sure there's no alcohol in your drink, omit the vinegar when making your shrub.

RECIPE BY John Wiseman of Curious Elixirs, @johnwise