Margaritas are one of the most popular cocktails, especially during the summer months. The refreshing combination of tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice can be enjoyed frozen or on the rocks. But which is better? Here we’ll examine the pros and cons of each to help you decide.
Frozen Margaritas
A frozen margarita is made by blending tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice and ice together to create a slushy, icy drink. Some of the pros of frozen margaritas include:
- They have a thicker, smoother texture than on the rocks margaritas.
- The ice helps dilute the alcohol, making them easier to drink quickly.
- Frozen margaritas stay cold longer since they have more ice blended in.
- The icy texture can be very refreshing on a hot day.
- They’re fun to drink with a straw.
On the downside:
- The freezing process can dilute the flavor of the margarita.
- Without precise measurements, the drink can end up too icy or watery.
- They may freeze your head if consumed too quickly.
- Slushy texture isn’t for everyone.
- Can’t get the iconic salt-rimmed glass with a frozen drink.
Overall, frozen margaritas are a great choice for cooling down on a hot summer day. The ice blends up into a slushy, creamy texture that makes the drink easy to sip through a straw. While the freezing process does dilute the flavors, you can avoid a watery drink by using precise measurements. Frozen margaritas go down very easily, which is part of the appeal! Just beware of brain freeze if you drink them too quickly.
Margaritas on the Rocks
A traditional on the rocks margarita is made by shaking tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice with ice and straining into a glass filled with fresh ice cubes. Some benefits of on the rocks margaritas:
- Allows you to fully appreciate the nuanced flavor of high-quality tequila.
- The ingredients aren’t diluted by blending.
- Crisp and refreshing over ice.
- Enjoy the ritual of salting the glass and sipping it slowly.
- Temperature stays colder longer than shaken drinks.
Downsides of on the rocks margaritas:
- Can become watery as the ice melts.
- Brings out the bitterness of lower quality tequilas.
- Doesn’t have the thick, frozen texture that some prefer.
- May need to re-ice or drink quickly before it warms up.
- Shaking can over-dilute it if technique is off.
An on the rocks margarita really brings out the pure flavors of tequila, orange liqueur and lime. The crispness of the drink over ice is hard to beat. Just be aware that the ice will melt, so drink it before it becomes watery. High quality, 100% agave tequila is recommended to avoid a harsh or bitter taste. On the rocks margaritas are perfect for sipping and appreciating the nuances of a well-made classic cocktail.
Margarita Ingredients
Whether you prefer frozen or on the rocks, a good margarita starts with high quality ingredients:
- Tequila – 100% agave tequila is ideal. Lower quality tequilas with added sugars can taste harsh in a margarita.
- Orange liqueur – Triple sec or Cointreau are commonly used. Balance sweetness with the tart lime.
- Lime juice – Freshly squeezed is best! The tartness is key.
- Ice – For frozen, use crushed or small cubes. For on the rocks, use large cubes.
- Salt – Kosher or sea salt for rimming the glass. Brings out flavors.
- Optional sweetener – Simple syrup or agave nectar to balance tartness.
Use fresh, quality ingredients and adjust ratios to suit your tastes. The ideal margarita balances sweet and tart flavors for a refreshing cocktail.
How to Make Frozen Margaritas
Here is a basic recipe and instructions for making frozen margaritas at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz high-quality 100% agave tequila
- 1 oz orange liqueur
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Lime wedge for garnish
Instructions:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and water. Shake for a few seconds to chill.
- Add tequila, orange liqueur and lime juice to shaker. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
- Rim glass with salt – rub lime wedge around rim and dip into salt dish.
- Add contents of shaker to blender. Add 1/2 cup ice and blend until smooth.
- Pour into prepared salt-rimmed glass and garnish with lime wedge.
- Enjoy your frozen margarita! Adjust ratios to suit your taste.
For an extra smooth and frosty drink, use a blender with crushed ice setting. Get creative with flavors by using different citrus juices, tropical fruit purees or herbs!
How to Make On the Rocks Margaritas
Here is a simple recipe and method for making classic margaritas on the rocks:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz high-quality 100% agave tequila
- 1 oz Cointreau or triple sec
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- Lime wedge for garnish
- Salt for rim (optional)
- Cracked ice
Instructions:
- If using, rim glass with salt by rubbing lime wedge around edge and dipping into salt.
- Fill cocktail shaker halfway with cracked ice.
- Add tequila, Cointreau and lime juice.
- Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
- Strain into prepared glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with lime wedge. Enjoy!
For an extra smooth margarita, consider double-straining through a fine mesh strainer after shaking. This catches any ice shards and results in a perfectly smooth cocktail!
Frozen vs On the Rocks: Which is More Popular?
Both frozen and on the rocks margaritas have their passionate fans. But overall, surveys show frozen margaritas edge out their on the rocks counterparts in popularity.
According to an informal survey by Vinepair.com, approximately 60% of people preferred frozen margaritas, while 40% preferred on the rocks. Women favored frozen margaritas over men by a significant margin.
A wider reaching survey by YouGov.com found similar results. Among over 1,000 respondents across the US, 65% said they prefer frozen margaritas, compared to just 35% who prefer on the rocks. The survey also showed the frozen margarita preference to be widespread across ages, genders and regions.
So while both have their merits, frozen margaritas seem to have wider appeal, especially among female drinkers. Their refreshing, slushy texture makes them the perfect way to cool down and imbibe on a hot summer day for many margarita fans.
Where to Find Great Margaritas
Looking for a great margarita in your area? Here are some tips:
- Search for “Best margaritas in [your city]” and read reviews. Word of mouth is telling!
- Look for Mexican restaurants with great ratings. Authentic places often have excellent margaritas.
- Check restaurant menus online for house margaritas and specialty flavors.
- Some chain restaurants like Chili’s or Chevy’s have reliably good margaritas.
- Higher end restaurants & bars often have margarita happy hours or specials.
- Tequila bars and specialty cocktail lounges are a good bet.
Wherever you go, check if they use fresh squeezed lime juice rather than mixes. It makes a big difference in flavor! Don’t be afraid to customize your drink – request 100% agave tequila, less sweet, salt on the rim, etc. Most bartenders are happy to accommodate.
Top Rated Margaritas in Major Cities
Here are some top rated restaurants and bars for margaritas in major US cities:
| City | Venue |
|---|---|
| New York | Empellon Taqueria |
| Los Angeles | El Carmen |
| Chicago | Mi Tocaya |
| Houston | El Tiempo Cantina |
| Phoenix | Barrio Cafe |
| Philadelphia | Jose Pistola’s |
| San Diego | Cantina Mayahuel |
| Dallas | Meso Maya |
| San Francisco | Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant |
| Boston | Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar |
Conclusion
Both frozen and on the rocks margaritas have their pluses and minuses. Frozen margaritas win out in terms of widespread popularity thanks to their slushy, creamy texture. But traditionists argue the on the rocks version brings out the true flavors of a quality margarita best. Whichever you prefer, use fresh ingredients and find a trusted restaurant or bar that makes a great version. With the right proportions, any margarita can be a deliciously refreshing cocktail suitable for hot summer days and backyard barbecues. ¡Salud!