Tequila, Fennel Bitters, and Lime Cocktail

This recipe is more spontaneous than the rest in the series.   We initially wanted to build a cocktail around fennel bitters that we purchased months ago that were still sitting on our bar unopened, but after a bit of brainstorming and recipe tests, we only ended up at a fizzy tequila and lime mix that was too simple. So, Christian came up with the idea to infuse agave syrup with fennel seeds.  The only problem was, we didn't have fennel seeds.  So, we decided to take the red Mukhwas after dinner mix from our pantry -- that actually has fennel in it -- and infused it with agave syrup to elevate the cocktail.  The Mukhwas is fragrant with a sweet, licorice flavor, giving the cocktail the perfect balance when paired with fresh lime and fennel bitters.

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Tequila, Fennel Bitters, and Lime Cocktail makes 1 cocktail

2 oz tequila blanco

3/4 oz fresh lime juice

1/2 oz mukhwas infused agave syrup

* Dash of fennel bitters

Combine tequila, lime juice, Mukhwas syrup, and fennel bitters in a cocktail or mixxing glass.  Fill with ice cubes and shake.  Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.  Garnish with a lime twist or lime wheel for added tang.

*To make Red Mukhwas Agave Syrup 1 cup of blue agave nectar (can also be made with sugar) 1 cup of water 1/8 cup of Red Mukhwas mix**

Bring water to a slow simmer. Add agave nectar and Mukwas mix while stirring mixture. Let syrup cool, and then fine strain into a bottle for storage. Keep refrigerated.

**I purchase the Red Mukhwas mix from Dual Specialty Store in East Village, but you can find it at just about any specialty store that sells Indian products.