The Best From The West This time of year the summer sun is high and mighty, and thoughts of cool fall temperatures start to creep into our thoughts. There's one original Texas cocktail that's remarkably simple to make and even simpler to share with friends on the hottest of days.
It's been awhile since West Texas cattle ranchers first enjoyed Ranch Water at watering holes (aka ice houses). Various slices of Texas lore have Ranch Water's origins dating back to the 1960s in a time when when the average burger cost less than a quarter and $1 could score you 20 first-class postage stamps. Below is our recipe for the most authentic Ranch Water on Planet Texas - it's delightfully citrusy tart and fizzy! If you're an aficionado of this cocktail try experimenting with a few of our optional garnishes below to create your own signature cocktail. Foodie Tips:
There are RTD (ready-to-drink) cans of this stuff but the most authentic is handmade right at home.
A word about agave: Not all tequilas are made with 100% agave. Many brands add artificial sugars or sweeteners to their tequila which may taste good at first, but they can leave you with a nasty hangover the next day and who wants that? These days we saddle-up with tequila labeled “100%,” which means it's 100% naturally made from the plant - no fake stuff infused!
Optional Garnishes (Pick 1 or Mix 'n Match) | Fresh Mint Leaf, Jalapeño Slice Or Two, A Chili-Limed Salted Glass Rim, Garlic Or Jalapeño-Stuffed Olive, A Splash Of Grapefruit Juice.
Ingredients:
To Serve | Ice Cube (See Below)
3 Ounces | 100% Agave Silver Tequila
1 ½ Ounces (About 2 Limes) | Fresh Squeezed Lime Juice
6 Ounces (About ½ A Bottle) | Topo Chico Sparkling Mineral Water
To Garnish | Fresh Lime Wedge
What To Do:
1. In a tall highball glass add a nice quality ice cube - not the stuff from your automatic freezer but a slow-melt bourbon call ice cube or a 2 inch "king cube" from the folks at Tovolo (shown in pic). 2. Add the tequila, lime juice, topo chico and give things a stir. Top with your chosen garnish. 3. Enjoy what some call a "dressed-down margarita" while slow-sippin' and sharing stories with friends and the best of family. Lather rinse and repeat as they say... and please drink responsibly! Yield: Makes 1 refreshing thirst-quenching cocktail
Joe Paul Reider
Home Style Austin Founder
Austin Realtor®
Keller Williams Realty
Email: JoePaul@KW.com
Mobile: 512-222-3302
Web: JoePaulReider.KW.com
Love Food? Explore more of our favorite recipes here at HomeStyleAustin.com!