Mango Jalapeño Basil Mockarita made with juicy mangoes and jalapeño simple syrup, and topped with garden-fresh basil and club soda is a gorgeous summer drink. Fresh and sweet with a spicy kick, it is refreshing and so much fun to make. Feel free to replace the club soda with tequila for a true margarita!
You will need:
Water - 2 cups, divided
Sugar - 1 cup
Jalapeño - 1 small, sliced
Lime juice - 2 tbsp
Mango puree - 2 cups, preferably fresh
Fresh basil leaves - ½ cup
Club soda or sparkling water - 2 cups
Ice cubes - as needed
How to:
To make the simple syrup, heat 1 cup each of water and sugar in a small saucepan. Add the jalapeño slices and bring to a slight boil. Turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice. Let the peppers infuse for 5 minutes, then strain the syrup into a clean jar and chill until needed. (You can also store the syrup without straining for an intense jalapeño flavor.)
In a pitcher, mix together the mango puree with the remaining cup of water and the prepared simple syrup. This mango concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To make a glass of mockarita, muddle 1-2 basil leaves in a glass and fill with ice cubes. Fill halfway with the mango concentrate and top with club soda or sparkling water. If you fancy a proper cocktail, add an ounce of tequila instead of club soda. Serve immediately.
Recipe by At The Corner of Happy And Harried at https://www.happyandharried.com/2018/05/25/mango-jalapeno-basil-mockarita/