Charred Shishito Margarita: A Fall Fusion Cocktail

Fall is here, and there's no better way to celebrate the season than by creating a cocktail that combines the smoky, charred flavors of shishito peppers with the refreshing zing of a classic margarita. If you're a fan of snacking on air-fried shishito peppers with a dash of salt and lemon juice, then this Charred Shishito Margarita is going to be your new favorite drink.

Charred Shishito Margarita

Ingredients:

• 1-2 charred shishito peppers (Char these using metal tongs over an open flame on a gas stove until they reach your desired level of char)

• 2 oz tequila (or mezcal for a smokier flavor)

• 1/2 oz triple sec

• 1/4 oz agave syrup

• 1 oz lemon juice

• A dash of salt

• Charred shishito for garnish

Directions:

1. In a cocktail mixing glass, add your sliced up charred shishito pepper(s).

2. Pour in the tequila, lemon juice, triple sec, agave syrup, and a dash of salt.

3. Muddle the mixture well to release the flavors.

4. Transfer the mixture to a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously over ice.

5. Grab a rocks glass, fill it with fresh ice, and strain or double strain your cocktail shaker over the fresh ice. Double straining helps to avoid tiny bits of charred shishito, but if you enjoy the extra texture, a single strain will suffice.

6. Top off the drink with some soda water; lemon seltzer works perfectly.

7. Garnish with a charred shishito pepper.

This cocktail is best enjoyed outside on a perfect 75-degree September afternoon. It’s a delightful fusion of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors that will make your fall gatherings even more special. Cheers to a delicious sip of the season!