Ranch Water: The Refreshing and Iconic Drink of Texas
Ranch water is a classic Texan cocktail that has gained popularity in recent years. This refreshing and simple cocktail is perfect for hot summer days and pairs well with Texan barbeque and outdoor activities. In this blog post, we will dive into the history of ranch water, its ingredients, and how to make it.
History of Ranch Water
Ranch waters are believed to have originated in West Texas, where cowboys and ranchers would mix tequila and soda water to create a refreshing cocktail. The drink became popular in the 1970s and 1980s when it was served at the iconic Austin bar, Cedar Door. Today, Ranch waters are a staple in Texan culture and can be found in most bars and restaurants across the state.
Ingredients
Ranch waters are incredibly simple and require only three ingredients:
Tequila: Ranch waters are traditionally made with tequila blanco, which is unaged and has a clear color.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is a must for ranch waters. It gives the cocktail its tangy and zesty flavor.
Topo Chico: Topo Chico is a sparkling mineral water that is bottled in Monterrey, Mexico. It has a distinct mineral flavor and is an essential ingredient in a ranch water.
How to Make a Ranch Water
Making a ranch water is incredibly easy and requires minimal effort. Here is a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients
- 2 oz LALO tequila
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- Topo Chico
Directions
- Fill a glass with ice.
- Add 2 oz of tequila and 1 oz of lime juice to the glass.
- Top off the glass with Topo Chico.
- Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.
- Enjoy!
Variations
While ranch waters are perfect as is, there are a few variations you can try to mix things up. Here are some ideas:
Grapefruit Ranch Water: Replace the lime juice with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for a tangy twist on the classic.
Spicy Ranch Water: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the glass before adding the tequila for a spicy kick.
Ranch Water Margarita: Add a splash of orange liqueur and a teaspoon of agave syrup to the mix for a sweeter and stronger version of the classic.
Ranch Waters are a refreshing and iconic drink that represents Texan culture and history. With only three ingredients, they are incredibly easy to make and perfect for hot summer days. So, next time you are in Texas, make sure to try a Ranch Water and experience the true taste of the Lone Star State.
For more LALO recipes, click here. ¡Salud!