I couldn’t put my finger on it, but there was something different about the margaritas in Cabo. They were refreshing, with an almost mint-like after taste. I finally asked the server, who kept my pool-side afternoons delightful by bringing another margarita as soon as I finished one, (hey, they were small!) what was so special about these luscious lime libations.
She told me that the secret ingredient was Damiana liqueur, made from an herb indigenous to the Baja. I found a bottle in a store near our resort. It was in the shape of a pregnant woman (the Incan Goddess of Fertility) because Baja natives believe Damiana is a natural aphrodisiac. A couple margaritas made with Damiana is most definitely an aphrodisiac. I packed a small bottle in my suitcase, just in case I couldn’t find it back in the States.
Besides enhancing margaritas, Damiana can be used as any other liqueur. Put it in desert sauces, like caramel sauce or mango sauce, or drizzle it over ice cream. I’ve even put it in French Toast batter.
I highly recommend going to Cabo to purchase your own bottle, but if that isn’t in your travel plans, look for it at large liquor stores. I’ve found it at A. J.’s Fine Foods here in the valley. If your store doesn’t carry it, ask if they can order it for you. Here’s a website where I also found it. Internetwines.com
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