Home » Drinks » Easy and Refreshing Ranch Water Recipe
by Eden
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ThisRanch Waterrecipe is a refreshing, low-calorie, three-ingredient co*cktail created in West Texas. It’s aTopo Chicoco*cktail, perfect for a hot day, and easy to make. Sharing everything you need to know about thisranch water drink!
If you’ve never heard of ranch water, that likely means you haven’t spent much time in West Texas. That’s because this bubbly, refreshing co*cktail is the unofficial drink of the region. Recently, it has become a popular drink throughout the United States.
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The first time I tasted it was when we were living in Tennessee. I loved that it’s such a simple drink, and tequila is my preferred spirit, so it’s a win-win for me!
Whether you’re headed to Texas for a trip soon or are just looking for a healthier alternative to a tasty co*cktail low in calories to celebrate warmer weather, we’re bringing you everything you need to know about the ranch water drink.
Also, check out my favoritevodka drinks and easy mixeddrinks!
Whether you’re headed to Texas for a trip soon or are just looking for a tasty co*cktail low in calories to celebrate warmer weather, we’re bringing you everything you need to know about the ranch water drink.
Why You’ll Love This Ranch Water Recipe
- It’s surprisingly simple to make a co*cktail that features just three ingredients.
- You might have noticed Ranch Water sold in stores. However, nothing is better than the homemade version, an easy co*cktail recipe.
- It reminds me of askinny margaritathat meets agin and tonic.
- A great co*cktail to serve people and easy enough for them to make themselves.
- Makes an excellentbrunch co*cktailas it’s refreshing and simple to make.
How To Make a Ranch Water co*cktail
To make this Ranch Water seltzer, you’ll need the ingredients below.
If you prefer to jump to the recipe, scroll to the bottom of this post, where you’ll find the recipe card and measurements.
Supplies
- co*cktail Jigger
- Citrus Juicer
- co*cktail Glass
Shopping List and Ingredient Notes
This drink is made with simple ingredients. It’s a refreshing drink that’s easy to create.
Topo Chico Mineral Water:This iconic Mexican sparkling water has gained quite the cult following in recent years, and for good reason. The brand was initially founded in 1895 in Monterrey, Mexico, and was named after the Cerro del Topo Chico mountain, where it is sourced from. The water is naturally carbonated by minerals found deep within the mountain and has been enjoyed for over a century.
Mineragua is another sparkling water staple in Mexican culture and cuisine that has been around for many years. It is often found in traditional Mexican co*cktails such as Palomas and micheladas. However, this is also a great choice when making ranch water. You can create this drink with club soda or soda water if both are hard to locate. It won’t have the same flavor, but it will still be delicious!
Tequila– The best tequila to use for this recipe isBlanco Tequila. Themain ingredient in ranch water is Blanco tequila. This type of tequila is unaged and has a transparent color, making it perfect for mixing in co*cktails. It’s made from 100% agave and has a smooth, slightly sweet flavor.
When combined with the bubbles and minerals of Topo Chico, it creates a refreshing and flavorful drink. You only need 1 to 1.5 ounces of tequila for this drink. It’s a refreshing sipper co*cktail, so anything more is too much.
Lime Juice– While bottled lime juice may be convenient, it doesn’t compare to freshly squeezed lime juice. The brightness and tanginess of fresh lime juice add an essential element to this drink and make a huge difference in the flavor.
I only use fresh lime juice when making any of my co*cktails at home. The fresher the ingredients, the better the taste.
Lime Juicing Tips:
- Roll the lime on a hard surface before juicing to help release more juice.
- Cut the lime in half and use a citrus reamer or juicer to get every last drop of juice.
- Add a small pinch of salt to your freshly squeezed lime juice for maximum flavor.
Add the lime juice and tequila into a glass filled with ice. Pour Topo Chico over the top and garnish with a lime slice or lime wedge.
Recipe Tips
- Add a splash of agave syrup or simple syrup for a sweeter version.
- Serve it straight from the bottle by pouring out enough Topo Chico to add the tequila and lime juice,
- Use good quality tequila for the best results, and remember, always use fresh limes!
Ranch Water Variations
If you want to add a little more to this Ranch Water Seltzer, try some of these ideas below:
SpicyRanch Water Drink:Add a slice of jalapeño or serrano pepper to the co*cktail for a spicy version.
GrapefruitRanch Waterco*cktail: One of my favorite ways to give it a fruity flavor is by adding a splash of grapefruit juice, about 1 ounce, to the drink.
LemonJuice:Swap out the lime for fresh lemon juice.
Lime Zest:Add alime zestover the top to garnish the co*cktail.
Cucumber: I love the way cucumber constantly adds a fresh flavor to any co*cktail. Muddle a little in the glass for a cucumber ranch water.
Chili Lime Seasoning: I’ve seen some people add chili lime seasoning to the rim of the glass, and I love the flavor it adds to this drink!
Orange: add asplash of orange liqueurfor a fun twist on the classic ranch water.
Virgin Ranch Water Recipe: If you want to indulge in this refreshing co*cktail but aren’t drinking alcohol, try swapping the tequila for Ritual Zero Proof tequila.
Ranch Water Serving Suggestions
Ranch Water is asummer co*cktailthat’s perfect for happy hour or to serve at any of these occasions or dishes:
- Garden Partyor Summer Picnic
- Cinco de Mayo Party
- Pool Partyor BBQ
- Summer Movie Night
- Birthday Party
Serve it with a taco salad, Mexican fruit platter, or any of these Mexican desserts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Topo Chico?
Bubbly water has been having a moment for the last several years. While La Croix gives sparkling water lovers plenty of flavors, it’s far from the only option. And also far from the oldest.
Topo chico is sparkling mineral water that’s been in production since the 1800s!
Made in Mexico, this bottled delight was first created in 1895 but has flown under the radar in the U.S. until recent years. Previously, the drink had a cult following, mainly because getting north of the border was tough.
But that changed in 2017 when Coca-Cola purchased the rights to produce and bottle the brand in America. Now, the drink has been steadily growing in popularity.
Where can I buy Topo Chico?
You can find Topo Chico at grocery stores like Whole Foods, Target, or Walmart. It’s also sold onAmazontoo. Let us know if you make this Topo Chico co*cktail in the comments below.
What Alcohol is in Ranch Water?
Tequila is the only choice for actual Ranch Water. The good thing about tequila is that it only has about 69 calories per ounce and no carbohydrates. It’s also low in sugar, making it a much healthier option.
Can I useaged tequila?
While you technically can use aged tequila in ranch water, it is not the traditional or recommended choice. Aged tequilas have a more complex flavor profile and are meant to be sipped independently rather than mixed in co*cktails. The bold flavors of an aged tequila may overpower the other ingredients in ranch water, so it’s best to stick with Blanco tequila for this drink.
What tequila is best for this Ranch Water drink?
You can choose your favorite tequila to make this co*cktail. But if you want to keep it true to its origins, opt for a Texas tequila.
Some popular options include:
- Pura Vida, a Texas-made tequila dating back to 1923
- Republic Tequila, a proud and prestigious Texas creation
- Railean El Perico Silver Tequila, made from 100% Blue Agave
- Dulce Vida Anejo Tequila holds the title “Most Awarded Tequila.”
You can also use:
- Don Julio
- Patron
- Spur
- Casamigos
What does Ranch Water Taste Like?
What does ranch water taste like? Similar to a mojito but with tequila instead. You can expect the crisp and refreshing taste of sparkling Topo Chico, topped with the fresh taste of lime and finished with that tequila kick.
Of course, how strong your drink is will depend on how heavy you go with the tequila!
More Delicious co*cktails You’ll Love!
If you love this recipe, try some deliciousco*cktail recipesto sip on a hot summer day!
- Strawberry Tequila Sodas
- Whiskey Highball
- Italian Paloma co*cktail
- Tequila and Orange Juice
- Aperol Spritz
- Sparkling Margarita Recipe
- The Best Moscow Mules
Let me know if you make thiseasy ranch water recipeby leaving a comment and review below! We’d love to know your thoughts!
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Ranch Water Recipe
Ranch water is a refreshing, 3-ingredient low calorie co*cktail created in West Texas. It’s easy to make and perfect for a hot summer day.
4.82 from 27 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: co*cktail
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 3 minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes minutes
0 minutes minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes minutes
Servings: 1 co*cktail
Calories: 73kcal
Author: Eden
Ingredients
- 1 ounce lime juice, fresh squeezed
- 1 ounce tequila
- 3 ounces Topo Chico
Instructions
Squeeze fresh lime juice into a bowl.
Add the lime juice and tequila into a glass filled with ice.
Pour Topo Chico over the top and garnish with a lime slice or wedge.
Notes
Add more tequila if you want a stronger co*cktail.
For spicy ranch water add in a little slice of jalapeño
If you want grapefruit ranch water, add in 1 ounce grapefruit juice.
Always taste test and alter the recipe to your liking.
Nutrition
Calories: 73kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1mg | Potassium: 34mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 14IU | Vitamin C: 9mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg
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