Contents
Introduction
Discovering Mexico’s Diverse Drinking Culture
When we think of Mexican drinks, the first thing that comes to mind is tequila and margaritas – but did you know that Mexico has a rich history of traditional and regional beverages that are just as delicious? From refreshing agua frescas to ancient, fermented pulque, Mexican drinks are as diverse and vibrant as the country’s culture. Whether you’re on a vacation in Mexico or simply want to explore new flavors, let’s take a sip into the world of Mexican beverages beyond tequila and margaritas.
The Importance of Drinking in Mexican Culture
Mexicans have a strong relationship with alcohol that goes beyond mere consumption. Drinking has been an integral part of socializing and festive occasions for centuries; from quinceañeras to weddings, birthdays, and religious celebrations – every event deserves a proper toast with friends and family. Not only does drinking bring people together, but it also represents a link between past traditions and present-day customs.
The Famous Drinks: Tequila & Margaritas
No article about Mexican drinks would be complete without mentioning tequila – the iconic beverage made from blue agave plants native to Jalisco state. Tequila is more than just another liquor; it’s a cultural symbol ingrained in Mexican identity. Similarly, margarita is another famous cocktail made with tequila mixed with lime juice and triple sec. These two drinks are synonymous with parties, fun nights out with friends or acquaintances – but they are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to discovering all that Mexico has to offer in terms of beverages.
Traditional Mexican Drinks
Horchata: A Sweet Rice Milk Drink with Cinnamon
When you’re in Mexico, you can’t miss trying horchata. It’s a sweet and refreshing drink made with rice milk and cinnamon.
It’s usually served cold, making it the perfect beverage for a hot day. You can find horchata in most Mexican restaurants, street vendors, or supermarkets.
Horchata is easy to make at home too. The recipe includes soaking rice overnight, blending it with water to form a smooth paste, and straining it through cheesecloth to get rid of any solids.
The liquid is then mixed with sugar and cinnamon for flavor. Some variations include almond or coconut milk.
Atole: A Warm, Thick Corn-Based Beverage with Various Flavors
Atole is another traditional Mexican drink that you should try. It’s a warm and thick beverage made from masa (corn dough) mixed with water or milk and flavored with various ingredients like chocolate, vanilla, cinnamon, or fruit.
Atole has been enjoyed since pre-Hispanic times in Mexico and is commonly consumed during breakfast or as an after-dinner treat. It’s also common during the Day of the Dead festivities when it’s served alongside pan de muerto (bread of the dead).
Champurrado: A Chocolate-Based Version of Atole
If you love chocolate drinks, then you must try champurrado! It’s basically a chocolate-based version of atole that uses masa harina as its base along with cocoa powder and cinnamon for flavor. Champurrado is usually thicker than atole because of its added cornstarch which makes it almost pudding-like.
This makes it perfect for dipping churros into! Champurrado originated in Mexico but has become popular in other Latin American countries as well.
Agua Fresca: A Refreshing Fruit-Infused Water Drink
Agua fresca is a light and refreshing drink that’s perfect for rehydrating on a hot day. It’s made by blending fresh fruit with water, sugar, and lime juice.
Some common flavors include watermelon, cantaloupe, pineapple, hibiscus flower (jamaica), and cucumber-lime. Agua fresca is low in calories and can be an excellent alternative to sugary drinks or sodas.
You can find it in most Mexican restaurants or street vendors. It’s also easy to make at home with your favorite fruits!
Regional Alcoholic Beverages
Mezcal: A Smokier Cousin to Tequila
When most people think of Mexican alcohol, they automatically think of tequila. However, there is another agave-based spirit that is gaining popularity in the United States: mezcal. Made from agave plants in Oaxaca, mezcal has a smoky flavor that sets it apart from its more famous counterpart.
The production process for mezcal is similar to tequila, but the agave plant used for mezcal is roasted before fermentation, giving it that distinct smoky taste. Mezcal can be enjoyed straight or mixed into cocktails.
Some popular cocktails made with mezcal include the Oaxaca Old Fashioned and the Mezcal Margarita. If you’re looking to try something new and different from tequila, give mezcal a chance.
Pulque: An Ancient Alcoholic Drink Made From Fermented Agave Sap
Pulque is an ancient alcoholic drink that dates back to pre-Columbian times in Central Mexico. It is made by fermenting sap from the maguey plant (a type of agave).
The resulting drink has a milky texture and a slightly sour taste. In recent years, pulque has experienced a resurgence in popularity among young Mexicans who are interested in traditional drinks and culture.
In Mexico City and other urban areas, pulquerias (specialty bars that serve pulque) are popping up all over. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something truly unique on your trip to Mexico, seek out a pulqueria and order a glass of this ancient beverage.
Bacanora: A Distilled Spirit Made From Agave Plant in Sonora
Bacanora is another agave-based spirit that hails from the state of Sonora in Northern Mexico. Similar to mezcal, the production process for bacanora involves roasting the agave plant before fermentation. However, unlike mezcal, bacanora is a distilled spirit.
Bacanora has a unique taste that is difficult to describe – some liken it to tequila, while others say it is closer to whiskey. It can be consumed neat or mixed into cocktails.
Because of its relative obscurity outside of Sonora, bacanora can be difficult to find in other parts of Mexico and even harder to find outside of the country. If you happen to come across a bottle of bacanora during your travels, give it a try for a taste of this distinctive regional spirit.
Modern Mexican Cocktails
Paloma: Tequila with a Twist
Tequila is a staple in Mexico and the Paloma is one of the country’s most beloved cocktails. To make this refreshing drink, tequila is mixed with grapefruit soda and lime juice. The result is a tangy and slightly bitter cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on hot days.
Some variations of the Paloma include adding salt to the rim of the glass or using fresh grapefruit juice instead of soda. The origins of the Paloma are unclear, but it’s believed to have originated in Jalisco, the state where tequila is produced.
In recent years, the cocktail has gained popularity outside of Mexico and can now be found on menus at bars around the world. It’s easy to see why – its simplicity and delicious taste make it an instant classic.
Michelada: A Spicy Beer Cocktail
If you’re looking for something more savory than sweet, look no further than the Michelada. This beer-based cocktail is typically made with light beer mixed with lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and spices like chili powder or Tajín seasoning.
The result is a spicy yet refreshing drink that’s perfect for pairing with Mexican food. The Michelada has become so popular in recent years that it now comes in pre-made mix form at many grocery stores.
However, making your own Michelada at home allows you to customize it to your tastes – add more spice if you like it hot or more lime juice if you prefer tanginess. No matter how you make it though, this drink will definitely pack a punch.
Tamarindo Margarita: A Sweet Twist on a Classic
Margaritas are already sweet enough thanks to their base of tequila and triple sec mixed with lime juice, but adding tamarind puree takes it to a whole new level. Tamarind is a fruit commonly used in Latin American cuisine and adds a tangy sweetness to this classic cocktail.
The tamarind puree can either be mixed into the margarita or used as a topping. The Tamarindo Margarita is perfect for those who have a sweet tooth but don’t want something too sugary.
It’s also easily customizable – use more or less tamarind depending on your preference. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests at your next Mexican-themed party or simply be a refreshing drink on a hot day.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Jarritos Soda: Sweet and Refreshing
Jarritos is a popular Mexican soda brand that comes in a wide variety of flavors, including tamarind, guava, and hibiscus. Made with real sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup, these sodas are noticeably less sweet than their American counterparts.
Tamarind Jarritos is particularly popular and has a unique sweet and sour taste that is hard to describe but easy to love. Guava Jarritos is another favorite among locals and offers a refreshing fruity flavor that can’t be found in regular sodas.
Licuados: The Fresh Fruit Fix
Licuados are fresh fruit drinks made by blending fruit with milk or water. They are commonly sold from street stalls throughout Mexico, especially in the mornings when they make for an ideal breakfast on-the-go. Licuados can come in all types of flavors depending on what fruits are available at the time – from strawberries to papayas to bananas – and can be customized with added ingredients such as honey or oats.
Conclusion
Mexico’s drinking culture goes beyond just tequila and margaritas. From traditional drinks like horchata and atole to regional alcoholic beverages like pulque and bacanora, there’s something for everyone to try.
Modern Mexican cocktails like the Paloma or Michelada offer refreshing twists on classic drinks while non-alcoholic options like Jarritos sodas or Licuados provide delicious alternatives for those who choose not to drink alcohol. So next time you find yourself in Mexico, go beyond the typical touristy drinks and explore all that this vibrant country has to offer when it comes to beverages.
With so many unique flavors and combinations, you’re sure to find something new that you love – whether it’s a smoky mezcal or a refreshing agua fresca. Salud!
