Puckery summer sipper
Here’s an antidote to dull margarita mixes: A new Tart & Spicy Jalapeno Lemonade & Margarita Mix by Urban Accents. Blend the powdered mix with water then serve over ice on its own or tequila spiked. We found the delayed fire of both options deliciously refreshing. Adjust mix-tequila proportions as you like; the package suggests a 1/2 cup each mix and tequila. It’s $8.95 for an 8-ounce package (makes 2 quarts). Buy online or locate a store: crateandbarrel.com.
Sriracha shakes things up
If it’s Sriracha heat you need but don’t want to deal with a big bottle of sauce, try a sprinkle (or more) of McCormick Gourmet Sriracha Seasoning. It’s one of three in the spicemaker’s new chili pepper line that includes crushed chipotle and ground jalapeno peppers. We found its spicy tang delivered as a rub and as a shake-on seasoning. A 2.37-ounce bottle is $5.99. At supermarkets nationwide. mccormick.com.
Holy margarita! What a kick
Whether mixing up margaritas or bloody marys, giving each glass rim a spicy-salty coating may be the perfect finish. Halo del Santo (halo of the saint), a blend of kosher salt, chili peppers, paprika and lime juice powder, adds a welcome textured bite. A 5-ounce tin (about 177 rims) is $14. It’s available at halodelsanto.com or amazon.com.
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