The margarita, a cocktail that has become an iconic symbol of Mexican culture and a staple in many restaurants, including the popular chain On The Border. For those who enjoy a good margarita, On The Border is often a go-to destination, offering a variety of margarita flavors and sizes to suit every taste. But have you ever wondered what exactly is in an On The Border margarita? In this article, we will delve into the ingredients, preparation, and history behind this beloved cocktail, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what makes an On The Border margarita so special.
Introduction to On The Border’s Margarita
On The Border is a casual dining restaurant chain that specializes in Mexican cuisine, with locations across the United States and internationally. One of the key attractions of On The Border is its extensive margarita menu, which features a range of flavors and sizes. From classic margaritas to more innovative flavors like mango and blood orange, On The Border’s margarita selection is designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
History of the Margarita
Before we dive into the specifics of On The Border’s margarita, it’s worth taking a brief look at the history of this iconic cocktail. The origins of the margarita are disputed, with several different stories and claims about its creation. One of the most widely-accepted accounts is that the margarita was invented by a socialite named Margarita Sames in the 1940s, who created the drink as a refreshing cocktail for her guests at a party in Acapulco, Mexico. Another story claims that the margarita was created by a bartender named Carlos “Danny” Herrera, who worked at a popular bar in Tijuana, Mexico, and created the drink for a customer who was allergic to many spirits but not tequila.
Regardless of its true origins, the margarita has become a beloved cocktail around the world, with countless variations and interpretations. On The Border’s margarita is just one example of the many different ways that this classic cocktail can be enjoyed.
Key Ingredients
So, what exactly is in an On The Border margarita? The key ingredients in a classic On The Border margarita include:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tequila | 1.5 ounces |
| Triple sec | 0.5 ounces |
| freshly squeezed lime juice | 1 ounce |
| simple syrup | 0.5 ounces |
These ingredients are combined in a specific ratio to create the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and tangy flavors that define the On The Border margarita experience.
Preparation and Serving
The preparation and serving of an On The Border margarita are just as important as the ingredients themselves. On The Border’s margaritas are made with freshly squeezed lime juice and high-quality tequila, which are combined with triple sec and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. The mixture is then shaken vigorously to combine and chill the ingredients, before being strained into a salt-rimmed glass filled with ice.
The salt rim is a classic margarita touch, and On The Border’s margaritas are typically served with a generous coating of salt around the rim of the glass. This adds a touch of flavor and texture to the drink, and helps to balance out the sweetness of the tequila and simple syrup.
Flavor Variations
One of the things that sets On The Border apart from other restaurants is its extensive selection of margarita flavors. From classic margaritas to more innovative flavors like mango and blood orange, On The Border offers a range of options to suit every taste. Some popular flavor variations include:
- Mango margarita: made with mango puree and a splash of citrus
- Blood orange margarita: made with blood orange juice and a hint of spice
- Jalapeno margarita: made with jalapeno peppers and a splash of lime juice
These flavor variations offer a fun and creative twist on the classic margarita, and are perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting.
Pairing with Food
On The Border’s margaritas are not just delicious on their own – they’re also perfectly paired with a range of Mexican dishes. From classic favorites like tacos and enchiladas to more innovative options like grilled steak and chicken, On The Border’s margaritas are designed to complement and enhance the flavors of your meal. Some popular pairing options include:
Pairing a classic margarita with a plate of spicy tacos or a grilled steak, or trying a mango margarita with a dish of grilled chicken or fish. The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of the grilled meat, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, On The Border’s margarita is a truly unique and delicious cocktail that offers a range of flavors and options to suit every taste. From the classic margarita to more innovative flavor variations, On The Border’s margaritas are made with high-quality ingredients and careful preparation, making them a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the margarita or just looking to try something new, On The Border’s margarita is sure to please. So next time you’re in the mood for a delicious and refreshing cocktail, be sure to give On The Border’s margarita a try – you won’t be disappointed!
What is the history behind On The Border’s famous margarita?
On The Border’s margarita has a rich history that dates back to the restaurant’s founding in 1982. The original recipe was created by the restaurant’s founders, who were inspired by traditional Mexican margaritas. Over the years, the recipe has undergone several tweaks and refinements, but the core ingredients and preparation method have remained largely the same. The margarita’s popularity can be attributed to its unique blend of flavors, which combines the sweetness of tequila with the tanginess of lime juice and the slight bitterness of triple sec.
The margarita’s success has also been driven by On The Border’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and adhering to traditional preparation methods. The restaurant’s bartenders are trained to craft each margarita with precision and care, ensuring that every drink meets the company’s high standards. As a result, On The Border’s margarita has become a staple of the restaurant’s menu, with millions of margaritas served every year. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the drink or just discovering it, On The Border’s margarita is a must-try for anyone who loves a good margarita.
What are the key ingredients in On The Border’s margarita recipe?
The key ingredients in On The Border’s margarita recipe are tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. The tequila is the base spirit of the drink, providing a rich, slightly sweet flavor. The lime juice adds a touch of acidity and a hint of citrus flavor, while the triple sec contributes a subtle orange flavor and a slight bitterness. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique and refreshing flavor profile that is both tangy and sweet. On The Border uses a specific type of tequila that is made from 100% blue agave, which gives the margarita its distinct flavor and character.
In addition to the primary ingredients, On The Border’s margarita recipe also includes a few secondary ingredients that enhance the flavor and texture of the drink. These may include simple syrup, salt, and ice, which help to balance out the flavors and create a smooth, refreshing texture. The exact proportions of each ingredient are a trade secret, but the company has revealed that the recipe involves a careful balance of sweet, sour, and salty flavors. By combining these ingredients in just the right way, On The Border’s bartenders are able to create a margarita that is both authentic and delicious.
How does On The Border make its margaritas?
On The Border makes its margaritas using a traditional preparation method that involves mixing the ingredients in a specific order and serving the drink in a salt-rimmed glass. The process begins with the rimming of the glass, which involves rubbing a lime wedge around the rim and then dipping the rim into a shallow dish of salt to create a thin layer of salt. Next, the bartender adds a combination of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. The ingredients are then shaken vigorously to combine and chill the ingredients.
The margarita is then strained into the prepared glass, where it is served immediately. The combination of the salt rim, the chilled ingredients, and the careful preparation method all contribute to the margarita’s unique flavor and texture. On The Border’s bartenders are trained to prepare each margarita with precision and care, ensuring that every drink meets the company’s high standards. Whether you’re a fan of margaritas or just trying one for the first time, On The Border’s margarita is a must-try for anyone who loves a good cocktail.
Can I make On The Border’s margarita at home?
Yes, you can make On The Border’s margarita at home using a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment. The key is to use high-quality ingredients, including 100% blue agave tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec. You will also need a cocktail shaker, a jigger, and a salt-rimmed glass. To make the margarita, simply combine the ingredients in the cocktail shaker, add ice, and shake vigorously to combine and chill the ingredients. Strain the margarita into the prepared glass and serve immediately.
To get the exact same flavor and texture as On The Border’s margarita, you may need to experiment with different ingredient proportions and preparation methods. The company’s recipe is a trade secret, so you may need to try a few different variations before you find one that you like. However, with a little practice and patience, you should be able to create a delicious and authentic-tasting margarita at home. You can also try adding your own twist to the recipe by using different types of tequila or adding a splash of fruit juice or other flavorings.
What are some popular variations of On The Border’s margarita?
On The Border offers several popular variations of its margarita, including the frozen margarita, the strawberry margarita, and the mango margarita. The frozen margarita is a slushy, ice-blended version of the drink that is perfect for hot summer days. The strawberry and mango margaritas are made with fresh fruit purees and are a great option for those who prefer a sweeter, fruity flavor. The company also offers a number of seasonal and limited-time margarita flavors, such as the cranberry margarita and the watermelon margarita.
In addition to these official variations, you can also try creating your own custom margarita flavors at home. Some popular options include the jalapeno margarita, which adds a spicy kick to the traditional recipe, and the blood orange margarita, which uses blood orange juice instead of lime juice. You can also try using different types of tequila, such as reposado or anejo, to create a unique and complex flavor profile. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create a margarita that is all your own and that suits your individual taste preferences.
How does On The Border ensure the quality and consistency of its margaritas?
On The Border ensures the quality and consistency of its margaritas by using high-quality ingredients and adhering to a strict preparation method. The company uses only 100% blue agave tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec in its margaritas, and the bartenders are trained to prepare each drink with precision and care. The company also has a rigorous quality control process in place to ensure that every margarita meets its high standards. This includes regular tastings and inspections to ensure that the ingredients are fresh and of high quality.
In addition to its quality control process, On The Border also provides ongoing training and support to its bartenders to ensure that they have the skills and knowledge needed to prepare high-quality margaritas. The company’s bartenders are trained in the traditional preparation method and are expected to follow a strict protocol when making each drink. This includes using the right amount of ice, shaking the ingredients for the right amount of time, and straining the margarita into a salt-rimmed glass. By combining high-quality ingredients with careful preparation and rigorous quality control, On The Border is able to ensure that every margarita it serves is of the highest quality and consistency.
Can I order On The Border’s margarita to-go or for delivery?
Yes, On The Border offers its margarita to-go and for delivery at many of its locations. The company has a special cup that is designed specifically for take-out and delivery, which helps to preserve the flavor and texture of the margarita. The cup is insulated to keep the drink cold and is designed with a secure lid to prevent spills. To order a margarita to-go or for delivery, simply visit the On The Border website or mobile app and select the location nearest you. You can then choose from a variety of margarita flavors and sizes, and select any additional items you would like to order, such as food or other drinks.
On The Border’s to-go and delivery service is a great option for those who want to enjoy a margarita at home or on the go. The company’s margaritas are made fresh to order and are packaged in a way that helps to preserve their flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or just want to enjoy a margarita at home, On The Border’s to-go and delivery service is a convenient and delicious option. You can also use the company’s online ordering system to customize your order and make special requests, such as extra salt or a specific type of tequila.