ASK A MIXOLOGIST

Alfred Siu of Toronto’s Project Gigglewater shares the recipe for his Hot Lips Margarita.

Q: I had the best watermelon margarita at Project Gigglewater the last time I was there. Can you get the recipe for me so I can make it at home?

— MICHAELA, Toronto

A: The secret ingredient of Alfred’s popular cocktail is habanero-infused watermelon syrup, which is made on-site. The chilis steep in the syrup mixture for up to an hour, creating a spicy-sweet base that’s deliciously piquant. “This drink is super refreshing,” says Alfred. “It’s got some heat and bite, and the chili salt makes your lips hot — hence the name!” If you’re feeling adventurous, add some mezcal for an extra hit of smokiness.

Watermelon Syrup

500 g watermelon juice

500 g sugar

50 g habanero (seeds removed)

Chili Salt (batch)

1 L kosher salt

2 tbsp Ancho chili powder 2 tbsp Morita chili powder

Hot Lips Cocktail Mix

40 mL watermelon syrup 10 mL fresh lemon juice 10 mL fresh lime juice

Margarita

50 mL tequila

60 mL Hot Lips Cocktail Mix

MAKE SYRUP

1. Heat ingredients to incorporate. Do not boil. Once incorporated, steep for about 30 to 60 minutes.

MAKE MARGARITA

1. Combine tequila and Hot Lips Cocktail Mix. Add watermelon syrup. Salt rim with Chili Salt, pour and enjoy.