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Black Magic Margarita

The Black Magic Margarita is a visually striking cocktail featuring a deep, inky black hue achieved through food coloring and smoky charred citrus. It combines charred grapefruit and lime with blackberry liqueur, jalapeño, and herbs, creating a complex, aromatic flavor profile with a smooth, slightly smoky finish. The final drink has a glossy, mysterious appearance with a bold, inviting aroma.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: modern cocktail
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces grapefruit for charred citrus
  • 2 pieces lime for charred citrus
  • 1 cup blackberry liqueur adds depth and sweetness
  • 1 small jalapeño thinly sliced for spice
  • 2 tbsp honey to balance flavors
  • 1 oz fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley) for aromatic notes
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika optional for smoky aroma
  • a few drops black food coloring adjust to desired darkness
  • ice as needed ice for chilling and shaking
  • salt for rim coarse salt for salted rim

Equipment

  • Grill or stovetop grill pan
  • Cocktail shaker

Method
 

  1. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the grapefruit and lime slices on the grill, and char them until they get dark grill marks and a fragrant smoky aroma, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  2. Remove the citrus slices and let them cool slightly. Squeeze the juice from the charred grapefruit and lime into a small bowl, catching any seeds, and set aside.
  3. Rub the rim of your glasses with a lime wedge, then dip each rim into a plate of coarse salt to create a salted edge. Set aside.
  4. In a cocktail shaker, add the charred citrus juices, blackberry liqueur, sliced jalapeño, honey, fresh herbs, smoked paprika, black food coloring, and a handful of ice. Shake vigorously until well chilled and integrated—about 15-20 seconds—until the mixture is slightly frothy.
  5. Strain the cocktail into your prepared glasses, pouring slowly to maintain the deep, inky color. The drink should be glossy and dark with a fragrant smoky citrus aroma.
  6. Garnish each glass with a small sprig of herbs or a slice of charred citrus for an elegant presentation. Serve immediately for the best smoky aroma and striking appearance.

Notes

Adjust the black food coloring carefully to achieve your desired inky darkness. For a milder smoky flavor, reduce the amount of smoked paprika. Make sure to char the citrus slices evenly for consistent smoky depth.