Watermelon, Watermelon, Watermelon Rind…

…look at the scoreboard and see who’s behind.  You. You. You.

Yes, this is an actual “cheer” from a team we played against in high school.  The less said about that, the better.  But I thought it would make a great introduction to this outstanding drink recipe post.

I started posting about Watermelon and Limes and Basil, and sharing food and drink recipes about these wonderful elements of summer flavors.  And as far as drink recipes are concerned (using these three elements) I may have just saved the best for last…maybe.  Or maybe it is just the watermelons ar very sweet and tasty right now.  Regardless of the reason, these drinks will kick up any summer slam or throwdown that you choose to have…and just in time for Labor Day celebrations.

As I have previously demonstrated, this summer many of the drink concoctions I have been making are influenced by unique flavors that are created by “infusing”.  Infusing can take on many different characters…what is used to infuse…and what is being infused.  These two recipes use one of each of these approaches.  And the third best thing about each one is that they are easy to do!  (the second best is they each have Tequila; the best…is how great they taste)So send out the invites.  Get the watermelon real cold.

Watermelon ‘Ritas (this recipe is for 4 drinks…I seldom make one at a time)

• 2 tsp lime zest
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2/3 cup water
• lime wedges
• 4 cups of watermelon puree (see note)
• 2 cups premium 100% agave tequila (I have been using 1800 lately and  it does a fine job…especially after a couple they seem to get better)
• 1 cup fresh lime juice (Roses can also be used)
• 1 cup Gran Marnier (or other orange flavored liqueur)

Note for Watermelon Puree:  To make the watermelon puree, remove seeds from fresh watermelon and cut into large chunks. Place in a blender and process until smooth and well pureed.

In a medium saucepan, combine the lime zest, water, and sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, and cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from the heat. Cool to room temperature and strain out the zest. (Can be made in advance; keep in a covered container in the refrigerator…probably for a few weeks to a month)

In a cocktail shaker, combine 1 cup of the cooled lime syrup with the watermelon puree, lime juice, tequila, Gran Marnier and ice. Shake until frothy and well chilled, at least 1 minute. Strain into the prepared glass and garnish with a lime wedge.  (Salted rims on glass optional)

Serve them up and get ready to fill up your and your guests glasses!

This next recipe follows the old recipe of KISS.  (Keep It Simple Stupid)

Tropical Tequila

In a large pot or metal container place the following:

• One bottle of premium 100% agave tequila
• Two large mangoes, peeled, seeded and sliced.
• 1/2 of a pineapple, peeled and cut into small pieces
• 1/3 to 1/2 of a large watermelon, rind cut off, and cut into smaller pieces.

Place a lid on the container and let it sit for about 5 days.  (While you are waiting for this, feel free to make a Watermelon ‘Rita – see above).  During this time, shake it once a day or so, just to stir things up.

After 5 days, remove the fruit from the container.  If you decide to taste it…well, don’t drive if you do.  Discard the fruit and strain the remaining liquid.  You will have more liquid than you started with, due to the fruit juices in the tequila.

Fill a short glass, or your choice, full of ice and pour the tequila over it.  Even if you do not usually drink straight tequila, you will like this with the naturally sweet tropical fruit taste you get.  I would suggest keeping this refrigerated…unless you decide to drink it all in one sitting…with the help of some good friends.

So there you have it amigos.  Chill the watermelon.  Send out the invites. Fire up the grill.  Get out the chips and salsa.  And pour me another one.

I know you will enjoy these drinks.  Enjoy them with friends…just the same way to enjoy your life…with family and friends…sometimes it is tough to tell them apart…many times…it doesn’t matter.