Identification Required!

I was planning a big Mexican meal to celebrate our friends’ anniversary. After what promised to be a somewhat heavy meal, I wanted to serve something thematic, but light, for dessert.

The meal consisted of cheese crisps, followed by a poblano-stuffed meatloaf with tomato sauce, yellow rice, and calabacitas. (Stay tuned for all these recipes!)

Getting ready for the feast, I spent a rare, quiet Saturday afternoon flipping through cookbooks, looking for recipes. I came across what promised to be the light yet flavorful dessert I was seeking.

While making it, I wasn’t really thinking about the fact that the alcohol never really gets cooked off in the process. The result? A very light margarita mousse that requires proof of identification to serve. I am not kidding — this dessert packs a punch! 21 and older only!

This dessert is half mousse, half gelatin. It is very foamy and light, and refreshing after a large meal – and perfect for the upcoming holiday weekend!

~ David

Mousse de Tequila
From México, The Beautiful Cookbook

2 teaspoons unflavored gelatin
1 cup sugar, divided
pinch salt
4 eggs, separated
3 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 large Persian lime)
2 tablespoons water
1/2 cup white (Silver) tequila
1/4 cup triple sec or curaçao
zest of 2 limes

In a medium saucepan, mix the gelatin, 1/2 cup of sugar, and salt.

In a medium bowl, beat the egg yolks until thick, pale, and creamy. Add the lime juice and water, and stir to combine. Pour over the sugar and gelatin, and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes stirring constantly, or until sugar and gelatin are dissolved. Pour into a large bowl, add the tequila and triple sec (or curaçao), and 3/4 of the lime zest. Let cool, then cover and place in refrigerator.

When the egg yolk mixture begins to set, add egg whites to another large bowl, and beat them at high speed until soft peaks form. Gradually add in the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and continue beating at high speed until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the chilled yolk mixture. Divide among 6-8 margarita glasses and garnish with remaining lime zest. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Serves 6-8.


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