Tommy’s Margarita is attributed to Julio Bermejo from Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco. It’s known for its simple recipe which emphasizes the quality of the tequila by using agave syrup (or nectar) instead of the triple sec or another orange liqueur commonly found in traditional margaritas.
This adaptation has since become a modern classic, with many considering it among the essential margarita variations to try.
Breakdown of the ingredients for Tommy’s Margarita
- Tequila: A quality 100% agave tequila, serving as the core spirit of the drink.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed, providing the tangy and refreshing character of the cocktail.
- Agave Syrup (or Nectar): A natural sweetener derived from the agave plant, it balances the lime’s acidity and complements the tequila’s profile.
No orange liqueurs or additional sweeteners are added, making this margarita variation clean, straightforward, and focused on the quality of its primary ingredients.
Tommy’s Margarita Ingredients Per Serving:
- Tequila: 50 ml (5 parts)
- Fresh lime juice: 25 ml (2.5 parts)
- Agave nectar: 20 ml (2 parts)
- Ice cubes: As needed
- Salt (optional for the rim)
- Lime wheel for garnish
Method
- Start by prepping your glass. If you like a salted rim, moisten the rim of the glass with a lime wedge and then dip it into a plate of salt. Set aside.
- In your Interplay Concepts cocktail shaker, pour in the tequila, fresh lime juice, and agave nectar.
- Fill the shaker with ice cubes up to three-quarters full.
- Secure the lid on your shaker and give it a vigorous shake for about 15-20 seconds or until the exterior of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain the mixture into your prepped glass, either neat or over ice, based on your preference.
- Garnish with a lime wheel.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing twist that is Tommy’s Margarita.
Tommy’s Margarita, with its subtle sweetness from agave nectar, offers a delightful variation to the traditional margarita. It’s simple, classic, and a testament to the fact that sometimes, the best variations are those that tweak just one or two key components.
A must-try for all margarita aficionados!
