Low Carb and Sugar Free Margaritas
1 c water
1/2 - 3/4 c natural sweetener(s) of your choice to equal 1/2 - 3/4 c
zest of 1 orange or 2 teaspoons dried
1/2 t xanthan gum
1 c fresh lime juice
1 1/2 c tequila
lime slices
ice
salt
In a saucepan, place the water and sweetener with the orange zest. Sprinkle xanthan gum over lightly while whisking briskly. I tried a stick blender once and it got really thick - if you want your 'syrup' really thick, use a stick blender and/or a little more xanthan gum. If you know you really like your margaritas a little sweeter, add a little more natural sweetener and taste test. I use about a cup total of a mixture of 2-3 natural sweeteners to get the best flavor. Heat over medium low to medium (gently) until it thickens. Remove it from heat, strain through a wire colander if you wish to remove the bits of orange; and let it cool while you juice enough limes to equal 1 cup. You can cheat and use store bought lime juice - it won't taste quite as fresh, but no one will probably notice or care. I've done both. Mix the sweetened mixture with lime juice & tequila. Chill. Salt the rims of your margarita glasses and use as is, or pour over crushed ice. For a frozen, place a cup of mixture in the blender with some ice and pour into your glass. Garnish with a lime slice. *Everything can be adjusted to your taste. Add more sweetener, more lime, more water or tequila to get the taste you like.
