Mezcalito Orange Sauce

FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES

A little smoky mezcal plus a little sweet orange equal a lot of great taste. You don’t need to use a premium mezcal for this, but don’t bother with the varieties that feature a worm at the bottom of the bottle. The sauce tastes splendid on lamb, cabrito, or venison.

The Mezcalito Orange Sauce is a spirited and vibrant concoction that brings together the smoky allure of mezcal and the zesty brightness of oranges. This sauce is a tantalizing fusion of flavors, combining the rich complexities of mezcal with the sweet and tangy notes of orange juice and orange liqueur. Whether drizzled over grilled meats, used as a marinade, or as a dipping sauce, this sauce promises to elevate your culinary creations with a touch of elegance and an exciting interplay of flavors.

MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup mezcal
• ½ cup orange juice
• ¼ cup orange liqueur, such as Triple Sec
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or lard

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Combine and Simmer: In a saucepan, combine the mezcal, orange juice, orange liqueur, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering process will meld the flavors together and allow the alcohol to mellow while the citrus notes intensify.
2. Whisk in Butter: After simmering, whisk in the unsalted butter or lard. The butter will enrich the sauce with a luxurious velvety texture and add a subtle richness that beautifully complements the other ingredients.
3. Serve Warm: The Mezcalito Orange Sauce is best served warm. Ladle the sauce over your choice of meat, whether it’s grilled chicken, pork, or beef. The interplay of flavors, from the smoky mezcal to the citrusy orange notes, will harmonize with the meat’s natural flavors, creating a truly delightful combination.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Grilled Meats: This sauce shines when paired with grilled meats. Drizzle it generously over the meat just before serving to enhance its juiciness and flavor.
• Marinade: Use the Mezcalito Orange Sauce as a marinade by brushing it onto the meat before grilling or roasting. Allow the meat to marinate for a while to absorb the vibrant flavors.
• Dipping Sauce: Serve the sauce on the side as a dipping sauce. It adds a sophisticated touch to your meat dishes, providing a unique and memorable dipping experience.
• Customization: Feel free to experiment with the Mezcalito Orange Sauce by adjusting the ratios of ingredients to match your preferences. You can also add a touch of freshly grated orange zest for an extra burst of citrus aroma.

VARIATIONS:

Variation 1: Spicy Mezcalito Orange Sauce For those who enjoy a bit of heat, you can give the Mezcalito Orange Sauce a spicy kick by adding a dash of hot sauce or a minced jalapeño pepper. This variation adds a layer of complexity to the sauce, combining the smokiness of mezcal with a satisfying heat that lingers on the palate. Experiment with the level of spiciness to find the perfect balance for your taste.

Variation 2: Mezcalito Citrus Glaze Transform the Mezcalito Orange Sauce into a glossy glaze by reducing it over low heat until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This concentrated glaze can be brushed onto meats as they cook on the grill, creating a caramelized and flavorful crust. The glaze also works beautifully on roasted vegetables, adding a burst of citrusy and smoky sweetness.

Variation 3: Mezcalito Fruit Salad Dressing Extend the use of the Mezcalito Orange Sauce beyond meats by turning it into a delectable fruit salad dressing. Mix the sauce with a bit of olive oil and drizzle it over a medley of fresh fruits, such as oranges, strawberries, and mangoes. The combination of smoky mezcal, citrus, and fruits creates a refreshing and unexpected flavor profile that’s perfect for light and vibrant salads.