Meet your new favorite cocktail, the ranch water.
The house cocktail of a hot, balmy Texas summer is Ranch Water.
Texas Ranch Water is a simple, three-ingredient cocktail that is nearly impossible to mess up.

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Think of it as something like a skinnymargarita, but even easier.
So why is it called Ranch Water?
What Is Ranch Water Made Of?

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The drink is easily modified to individual tasteand that’s part of its appeal.
Here’s a quick step by step:
Can You Make a Big Batch of Ranch Waters?
You sure can make ranch waters for a crowd, but you’ll need to be strategic.

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Stir together the tequila and lime juice in a pitcher, but don’t add the Topo Chico.
Salt or tajin on the rim or inside the drink are popular additions.
Punching up the drink with some added spice is a popular modification, too.

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“Cowgirls, Try adding a couple of pickled jalapeno slices,” suggests community member Cyoung27312.
“Yee haw!”
Add tequila and juice:
Add tequila and fresh lime juice to glass with ice.

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Add sparkling water:
Top with Topo Chico.
Add fresh lime wedge to the rim of the glass.
Just use a ratio of two parts tequila to one part fresh lime juice.

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But people who prefer more of a tequila-y flavor might alsochoose to use mezcalor even reposado.
These tequilas are aged longer and have a stronger flavor.
Yes, some peopleespecially Texanswill say thatTopo Chicois a nonnegotiable in a Ranch Water recipe.
That’s because the sparkling water packs an extra-bubbly punch that adds sparkle to every sip.
But is it critical?
Remember, the breezy nature of the drink means that anything goes.
You might make your Ranch Water in a highball glass.
But it’s not critical; use whatever glass you have on hand.