The Monster Energy NASCAR Cup Series is at Phoenix International Raceway for the Camping World 500 today. The Southwest region is full of interesting landscapes and culture. One thing I always associate with the Phoenix area is the desert. The dry, hot climate breeds different kinds of plants, animals, food and drinks, but margaritas remain a staple. The frozen variety offers a cool respite from the heat, and the agave tequila represents the area. Last year I shared the traditional lime margarita recipe. This year I’m sharing the frozen mango margarita recipe. This frozen mango version is my absolute favorite. The sweet and savory taste matches my mood for today’s race perfectly, too. I’m hoping for some sweet racing mixed with some spicy close calls.  With Joey on the pole and Kyle not far behind at spot #9, things could spice up quickly!  While the taste will certainly mirror my mood, the look of the drink will remind me of Phoenix, too. The rich yellow color of the drink paired with the burnt orange rim looks like a fiery sunset. The name Phoenix itself comes from a mythological bird that lives to a very old age, bursts into flames and then is reborn from the ashes. The edgy chamoy and chili rim conjures up the fiery Phoenix from mythology, the spectacular desert sunsets from the region, and the flaming tempers from getting “dumped.”  This is definitely the appropriate drink for this week’s race and definitely worth trying!

Frozen Mango Margarita

Food Network Recipe

10 oz. bag frozen mango chunks

2/3 c. Cabo Wabo agave tequila

1/4 c. lime juice

2 T. Grand Marnier 

2 T. sugar

2 c. ice water

Put all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Spread chamoy on a plate. Spread chili powder or seasoning on a plate. Rub edge of glass in chamoy and dip edge in seasoning. Fill glass with margarita. Garnish with lime. Enjoy!