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Craving a refreshing drink that’s simple to make? Look no further than Ranch Water, a classic Texan cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s made with just three key ingredients: tequila, lime juice, and sparkling water.
Explore our collection of cocktail recipes, including favorites like the Aperol Spritz, Bloody Mary, Tequila Sunrise, Moscow Mule, and Margarita. Each recipe is sure to delight any cocktail enthusiast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple: Only 3 ingredients are needed, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or a quick after-work drink.
- Refreshing: The combination of tequila, lime, and sparkling water creates a cool and invigorating beverage.
- Customizable: Adjust the proportions of tequila, lime juice, and sparkling water to suit your taste.
- Budget-friendly: With only a few basic ingredients, Ranch Water is an affordable way to enjoy a delicious cocktail.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, or experiment with different flavors (see variations below!).
What Is Ranch Water?
Texas Ranch Water, a simple three-ingredient cocktail featuring tequila, lime juice, and Topo Chico mineral water, has been a classic since the 1960s and is now gaining popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional margaritas. While some purists in Texas prefer using only Topo Chico, a ranch water cocktail is just as delightful with any sparkling water you have available, making it a foolproof choice for a refreshing drink.
Ingredients
- Tequila: While any brand works, Blanco (silver) tequila is recommended for its crisp and clean flavor. For a stronger tequila taste, you might opt for mezcal or reposado.
- Lime juice: Fresh lime juice is preferred for its freshness, but bottled lime juice is a convenient alternative.
- Sparkling water: Topo Chico is the traditional choice for its high carbonation, enhancing the drink’s refreshment. However, other sparkling water brands like LaCroix or Bubly are also suitable and may be more readily available.
Recipe Variations: Ranch Water – 3 Ways
Beyond the refreshing classic Ranch Water, explore these variations to add a touch of sweetness or spice to your drink:
Classic Ranch Water
- Ingredients: 2 ounces tequila, 1/2 ounce lime juice, ice, 4 ounces Topo Chico.
- Instructions: Combine tequila, lime juice, and ice in a glass, then top with Topo Chico.
Pineapple Ranch Water
- Ingredients: 2 ounces tequila, 1/2 ounce lime juice, 2 ounces pineapple juice, ice, 4 ounces Topo Chico.
- Instructions: This version adds a sweeter twist with pineapple juice. Mix tequila, lime juice, pineapple juice, and ice, then finish with Topo Chico.
Spicy Ranch Water
- Ingredients: 2 ounces tequila, 1/2 ounce lime juice, 3 slices of jalapeños (adjust to taste), ice, 4 ounces Topo Chico, Tajin for garnishing.
- Instructions: For a bold Texas kick, add jalapeño slices (with seeds for extra heat) to the glass and muddle them. Mix in tequila, lime juice, and ice, then top with Topo Chico. For an extra touch, rim your glass with Tajin: moisten the rim with a lime wedge, then dip it in a plate of Tajin.
Pro Tips:
- Rimming the Glass: To garnish your glass rim with Tajin or any spicy seasoning, use a lime wedge to wet the rim before dipping it in the seasoning.
- Enhancing the Spice: Muddle the jalapeño slices, including the seeds, in the glass for added flavor and heat.
Expert Tips
To make the best Ranch Water, consider these tips:
- Choose freshly squeezed lime juice for the most vibrant flavor in your cocktail.
- For added sweetness, mix in a small amount of agave syrup according to your preference.
- Experiment with Topo Chico’s flavored sparkling mineral waters, such as grapefruit, tangerine, or lime, for a unique twist.
- Adjust the quantities of each ingredient to tailor the drink to your personal taste.
What To Serve With Ranch Water
- With Tex-Mex Cuisine: Pairs wonderfully with beef tacos, nachos, or a fresh taco salad.
- Outdoor Gatherings: Enjoy with BBQ ribs, guacamole, and other picnic favorites for a delightful combination.
- Relaxing at Home: Sip on Ranch Water while lounging on your patio with a bowl of homemade tortilla chips and queso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Just double or triple the ingredient amounts to make extra cocktails.
Topo Chico is a highly carbonated Mexican sparkling mineral water traditionally used in Ranch Water for its extra fizziness. However, any sparkling mineral water you have will work well.
Although there’s no strict rule on glassware for Ranch Water, a tall highball glass or a Collins glass is recommended to enhance the drinking experience.
Yes! Ranch Water is gluten-free and low in sugar, carbs, and calories.
Yes, just skip the tequila and enjoy a refreshing lime soda.
Add a splash of agave syrup or simple syrup to sweeten it up.
Ways To Use Leftover Ingredients
If you have any ingredients leftover from this recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder or you might like to consider using them in any of these single serving and small batch recipes:
If you’ve tried this Ranch Water recipe or any of the variations please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.
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Ranch Water Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces tequila
- ½ ounce lime juice
- ice
- 4 ounces Topo Chico Mineral Water , or use another brand of sparkling water
Instructions
- Pour the tequila into a tall glass.
- Add lime juice.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Pour in Topo Chico.
- Stir and enjoy.
Notes
- Opt for freshly squeezed lime juice for the most vibrant flavor in your cocktail.
- For added sweetness, mix in a small amount of agave syrup according to your preference.
- Experiment with Topo Chico’s flavored sparkling mineral waters, such as grapefruit, tangerine, or lime, for a unique twist.
- Adjust the quantities of each ingredient to tailor the drink to your personal taste.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Best method
Good recipe.