A Guide to Pairing the Right Drinks with Your Mexican Meal

 

If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, you know that the flavors are bold, vibrant, and unlike anything else you'll find in the culinary world. But did you know that the right drink can enhance those flavors and take your meal to the next level? In this guide, we'll explore the art of pairing Mexican drinks with your favorite MEXI-KIT dishes.

 

From tequila-based cocktails to refreshing aguas frescas, we'll introduce you to the diverse world of Mexican beverages. We'll also provide tips and suggestions on how to pair these drinks with your favorite Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to traditional moles and more. Discover the rich flavors and cultural significance of Mexican drinks and take your dining experience to new heights.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Mexican drinks can enhance the flavors of your favorite Mexican dishes
• Tequila-based cocktails are a staple of Mexican mixology
• Mexico has a wide variety of traditional beverages to explore
• Agave-based drinks offer a refreshing and authentic taste of Mexico
• Non-alcoholic Mexican drinks are perfect for all ages and occasions

Traditional Mexican Beverages

 

Mexico has a rich history of traditional beverages that have been enjoyed for centuries. From refreshing aguas frescas to heartwarming Mexican hot chocolate, these drinks offer unique flavors and cultural significance.

 

One popular traditional Mexican beverage is horchata, made with rice, cinnamon, and sugar. This sweet, creamy drink is perfect for a hot day and complements spicy food flavors perfectly.

 

Tepache is another traditional drink made from fermented pineapple and brown sugar. This tangy, slightly fizzy beverage is often sold by street vendors and provides a refreshing break from the heat.

 

Tequila Sunrise

 

A tequila sunrise is a classic tequila-based cocktail that originated in California but has become popular worldwide. To make this tasty drink, mix tequila, orange juice, and grenadine syrup in a glass. The result is a sweet, fruity drink with a beautiful red gradient effect—perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon.

 

Fun fact: The tequila sunrise was the favorite drink of Mick Jagger and Keith Richards during their 1970s US tours.

 

Of course, no discussion of traditional Mexican beverages is complete without mentioning tequila. This iconic spirit is made from the blue agave plant and is the basis for many classic Mexican cocktails, including margaritas and palomas.

 

Another popular Mexican spirit is mezcal, which is made from a different type of agave plant and has a smoky flavor. Sip on mezcal alone or mix it into a smoky margarita for a unique twist on a classic.

 

Lastly, if you're looking for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink option, try a agua de jamaica. Made from hibiscus flowers, this tart and floral drink is a delicious and healthy alternative to sugary sodas.

Tequila-Based Cocktails

 

Tequila, the iconic Mexican spirit, is the perfect base for a variety of delicious cocktails. Whether you prefer a classic margarita or a refreshing paloma, tequila-based cocktails offer a perfect complement to any Mexican meal.

 

The Different Types of Tequila

 

Before we delve into the world of tequila-based cocktails, let's first explore the different types of tequila:

 

Type	Description
Blanco	Unaged tequila with a clear color and a strong flavor of agave.
Reposado	Aged for 2 to 12 months in oak barrels, creating a smoother taste and a light golden color.
Añejo	Aged for 1 to 3 years in oak barrels, resulting in a dark color and a complex, smooth flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel.
Extra Añejo	Aged for more than 3 years, creating an extremely smooth and rich flavor with a deep amber color.

 

Classic Tequila-Based Cocktails

 

Now that we've familiarized ourselves with the types of tequila, let's move on to some classic tequila-based cocktails:

 

• Margarita: A classic cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served with a salt rim.
• Paloma: A refreshing cocktail made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice, topped with soda water.
• Mexican Mule: A twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with tequila, lime juice, and ginger beer.
• Tequila Sunrise: A colorful cocktail made with tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, served over ice.

 

Creating Your Own Tequila-Based Cocktails

 

Feeling adventurous? Why not experiment with creating your own tequila-based cocktails? Here are some tips to get you started:

 

1. Choose your tequila: Depending on the flavor profile you're looking for, choose a tequila that is either blanco, reposado, añejo, or extra añejo.
2. Add fresh juices: Lime juice, orange juice, and grapefruit juice are all great options for mixing with tequila.
3. Sweeten it up: Add some sweetness to your cocktail with simple syrup, agave nectar, or fruit juices like pineapple or cranberry.
4. Get creative with garnishes: Add some flare to your cocktail with fun garnishes like fresh herbs, citrus wedges, or chili salt rims.

 

Now that you've learned the basics of tequila-based cocktails, it's time to enjoy one with your next Mexican meal. Salud!

Mezcal and Other Mexican Spirits

 

Mexico's diverse beverage offerings extend beyond tequila. Mezcal, another agave-based spirit, is renowned for its smoky flavor and offers a complex and unique taste that can't be missed. Other Mexican spirits like Damiana, a liqueur with herbal undertones, and Raicilla, a moonshine-like beverage, offer exciting opportunities to expand your palate.

 

Mezcal is produced using a similar process to tequila, but the agave is roasted underground to create a smoky profile. The spirit is often sipped neat and enjoyed as a standalone beverage, but it's also an excellent cocktail ingredient. Mezcal-based cocktails like the Oaxaca Old Fashioned are gaining popularity among mixologists, offering a rich and complex flavor profile.

 

Other Mexican spirits, like Damiana, have a history that dates back to the ancient Mayans. The liqueur is made from the Damiana leaf and is known for its sweet and herbal flavor profile. Sip it on its own or mix it into a cocktail for a unique and flavorful addition.

 

For a truly authentic experience, try Raicilla, a traditional moonshine-like beverage from Jalisco state. Made using several types of agave, the spirit has a unique flavor profile that's perfect for adventurous drinkers.

Mexican Beers for Every Palate

 

When it comes to refreshing beverages to accompany your favorite Mexican dishes, few options beat a cold beer. Mexico offers a vast array of beers that come in all shapes and sizes, from mainstream lagers to artisanal microbrews. Here are some Mexican beers to try at your next Mexican feast:

 

Beer Name	Flavor Profile	Acclaim
Corona	Light and refreshing with a mild hop flavor and a hint of citrus	World's best-selling Mexican beer
Dos Equis	Smooth and malty with a touch of sweetness and a slight bitterness	Won "Best World Lager" award at the 2018 World Beer Awards
Tecate	Crisp and dry with a slightly bitter finish	Mexico's favorite beer for over 70 years
Bohemia	Full-bodied with a slightly spicy aroma and a citrusy finish	Winner of multiple international beer awards

 

For those looking for something more adventurous, Mexico's craft beer scene has exploded in recent years, offering a wide range of unique and flavorful options. Some popular Mexican microbrews include Cucapá, Minerva, and Cru Cru. These lesser-known brands offer a different taste on traditional brewing techniques and are worth a try.

 

Pairing Mexican Beers with Food

 

Pairing beer with food is an art form unto itself. When pairing beer with Mexican cuisine, it's important to consider the intensity and complexity of the flavors. Lighter beers like Corona or Tecate pair well with refreshing dishes like our Elotes, while darker beers like Bohemia or Negra Modelo complement the richness of a Birria Beef Taco or a hearty Pork Carnitas. The general rule is to match the intensity of the beer with the intensity of the dish.

 

For those who prefer spicy food, a cold beer can help soothe the heat. The carbonation in beer helps to dissipate the heat and cleanse the palate between bites. A refreshing beer like Dos Equis or Pacifico pairs well with spicy dishes like tacos al pastor or chicken tinga! 

 

Whatever your preference, Mexican beers offer a wide range of choices to enhance the flavors of your favorite Mexican dishes. Try sampling different beers to discover your favorite pairings and find a new appreciation for the vibrant world of Mexican beverages.

Agave-Based Beverages

 

Agave, a plant native to Mexico, has been used to create a variety of traditional Mexican drinks for centuries. These beverages have unique and complex flavors that are worth exploring. Here are some of the most popular agave-based beverages in Mexico:

 

Drink	Ingredients	Description
Pulque	Fermented agave sap	A thick and slightly sour beverage that has been consumed in Mexico since pre-Columbian times. It has a low alcohol content and is often flavored with fruit or spices.
Tepache	Fermented pineapple	A sweet and tangy drink that is often served as a refreshing beverage on hot days. It has a slight alcohol content and is sometimes flavored with cinnamon or cloves.
Agua de Coco	Coconut water and grated coconut	A light and refreshing beverage that is popular in coastal regions of Mexico. It is served chilled and often mixed with lime or other fruits.

 

These agave-based drinks can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a meal. Pulque, for example, is often paired with spicy snacks or grilled meats, while tepache is a great accompaniment to seafood dishes. Agua de coco is a popular drink to have with lunch or as a mid-afternoon refreshment.

 

Health Benefits of Agave-Based Beverages

 

In addition to their delicious flavors, agave-based beverages also offer several health benefits. For example, pulque is a good source of probiotics, which promote digestive health. Tepache contains enzymes that aid in digestion and can help reduce inflammation. Agua de coco is packed with electrolytes, making it a great hydrating beverage after exercise.

 

Next time you're looking for a refreshing and unique beverage to pair with your Mexican meal, consider trying one of these agave-based drinks. They are a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico and offer a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the flavors of this vibrant cuisine.

Mexican Coffee and Hot Drinks

 

Mexican coffee is a must-try if you're a coffee lover. With its unique flavor profile and brewing techniques, Mexican coffee is an experience in itself. The coffee beans are typically roasted darker than other beans, which gives the coffee a rich and full-bodied taste.

 

One of the popular ways to enjoy Mexican coffee is by making Cafe de Olla. This hot, spiced coffee is brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo, a type of unrefined cane sugar. The result is a warm and comforting drink with a hint of sweetness and a subtle spice kick. To make Cafe de Olla, you'll need:

 

Ingredients:	Instructions:
- 4 cups water	1. Combine water, cinnamon sticks, and piloncillo in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
- 2 cinnamon sticks	2. Stir occasionally until piloncillo dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil.
- 6 oz ground coffee	3. Reduce heat to low and add ground coffee. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- 1 piloncillo cone, or 1 cup brown sugar	4. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes to allow the coffee grounds to settle.

 

Another delicious hot drink to try is Champurrado, a thick and chocolatey drink made with masa harina (corn flour), milk, and chocolate. It's a popular beverage during the holiday season and perfect for chilly evenings. To make Champurrado, you'll need:

 

Ingredients:	Instructions:
- 4 cups milk	1. Heat milk in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- 1 cup masa harina (corn flour)	2. In a small bowl, whisk together masa harina and 2 cups water until there are no lumps.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or piloncillo	3. Pour the masa harina mixture into the saucepan with the milk and stir to combine.
- 1/2 cup Mexican chocolate, chopped	4. Add sugar or piloncillo and chocolate. Stir until chocolate melts and the mixture thickens, about 10-15 minutes.

 

If you're looking for a non-chocolate hot drink, try Atole. It's a warm and creamy drink made with masa harina, milk, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and vanilla. It's a comforting drink that's perfect for cold winter nights. To make Atole, you'll need:

 

Ingredients:	Instructions:
- 4 cups milk	1. Heat milk in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
- 1/2 cup masa harina (corn flour)	2. In a small bowl, whisk together masa harina and 2 cups water until there are no lumps.
- 1/2 cup sugar	3. Pour the masa harina mixture into the saucepan with the milk and stir to combine.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon	4. Add sugar and cinnamon. Stir until the mixture thickens, about 5-10 minutes.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract	5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

 

Whether you're looking for a spicy coffee, a chocolatey drink, or a comforting and warm beverage, the world of Mexican hot drinks has something to offer. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the rich flavors and cultural significance of these delightful concoctions.

Non-Alcoholic Mexican Drinks

 

There's more to Mexican beverages than just tequila and beer. Mexico offers a range of thirst-quenching non-alcoholic drinks that are perfect for any occasion. From refreshing Aguas Frescas to sweet and creamy Horchata, there's something for everyone.

 

Aguas Frescas

 

Aguas frescas are a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Mexico. These refreshing drinks are made from a combination of fresh fruits, flowers, and water. Some popular flavors include horchata (rice milk), jamaica (hibiscus flower), and tamarindo (tamarind).

 

Drink	Description
Horchata	A sweet and creamy rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon and vanilla.
Jamaica	A tangy and sweet drink made from hibiscus flowers.
Tamarindo	A tangy and sour drink made from tamarind fruit.

 

Hibiscus Tea

 

Hibiscus tea, also known as "Agua de Jamaica," is a popular drink in Mexico. This tart and refreshing tea is made from dried hibiscus flowers and brewed with sugar and water. Not only is it delicious, but it's also packed with antioxidants and is believed to have numerous health benefits.

 

Horchata

 

Horchata is a creamy, sweet, and refreshing non-alcoholic drink that is popular in Mexico. This rice milk drink is made with cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar, and is perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

 

Atole

 

Atole is a traditional Mexican drink made from masa (corn dough) and flavored with cinnamon and sugar. This sweet and creamy drink is often enjoyed during the winter months and is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day.

 

Conclusion

 

Whether you're looking for a refreshing drink on a hot day or a warming beverage on a chilly evening, Mexican non-alcoholic drinks offer a wide range of flavors and options to suit your taste buds. From the colorful and fruity Agua Frescas to the sweet and creamy Horchata, these non-alcoholic Mexican drinks are not to be missed.

Pairing Mexican Drinks with Food

 

Pairing the right drink with your Mexican meal can enhance the flavors and take your culinary experience to the next level. Here are some tips for pairing Mexican drinks with different types of food:

 

Food	Drink
Tacos al Pastor	A refreshing margarita or a fruity agua fresca like pineapple or watermelon
Enchiladas Verdes	A crisp Mexican lager or a traditional paloma
Mole Poblano	A bold red wine like Zinfandel or a smoky mezcal-based cocktail
Ceviche	A light and citrusy white wine or a tangy michelada

 

Remember to consider the intensity and spiciness of the dish when pairing drinks. For spicier meals, opt for beverages with cooling properties like horchata or a cucumber-infused cocktail. For sweet or fruity dishes, a crisp and light beer or a floral hibiscus tea can balance out the flavors.

 

By pairing Mexican drinks with your food, you can elevate your dining experience and fully appreciate the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine.

Mexican Drink Recipes to Try at Home

 

Ready to explore the vibrant flavors of Mexico in your own kitchen? Here are some easy-to-follow Mexican drink recipes that you can try at home!

 

Classic Margarita

 

Ingredients	Instructions
2 oz tequila	In a shaker, mix the tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur with ice.
1 oz fresh lime juice	Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass over ice.
1/2 oz orange liqueur	Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!

 

For a twist on the classic margarita, try adding fresh fruit like strawberries, mango, or watermelon!

 

Horchata

 

This creamy and refreshing Mexican drink is perfect for hot summer days.

 

Ingredients	Instructions
1 cup white rice	Soak the rice in water overnight. Drain and rinse the rice.
2 cups water	In a blender, blend the rice with the water until smooth.
1 cup milk	Add the milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to the blender.
1/2 cup sugar	Blend until well combined and the sugar has dissolved.
1 tsp ground cinnamon	Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any solids.
1 tsp vanilla extract	Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

 

Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon and serve over ice for a delicious and authentic horchata experience!

 

Jamaica Agua Fresca

 

This vibrant and refreshing hibiscus tea is a favorite in Mexico and is perfect for any occasion.

 

Ingredients	Instructions
1 cup dried hibiscus flowers	In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
8 cups water	Add the hibiscus flowers and let simmer for 10-15 minutes.
1 cup sugar	Remove from heat and add the sugar, stirring until dissolved.
1 lime, juiced	Allow the tea to cool, then strain the mixture.

 

Stir in the lime juice and serve over ice. For a fun twist, add fresh fruit like sliced oranges or strawberries to the pitcher!

 

With these easy and delicious Mexican drink recipes, you can bring a taste of Mexico to your own home. Enjoy!

Conclusion

 

We hope you found this guide to pairing Mexican drinks with your favorite dishes informative and enjoyable! From traditional Mexican beverages to unique agave-based drinks and delicious tequila-based cocktails, we've explored the diverse world of Mexican libations.

 

Remember, when pairing drinks with your Mexican meal, it’s all about balance and complementing flavors. Experiment with different combinations and find your own personal favorite.

 

In Summary

 

Whether you’re a fan of classic tequila-based cocktails or prefer to savor the richness of a traditional Mexican coffee, there’s a Mexican drink out there for every taste and preference. Don't forget to try out our recipes at home and share your creations with friends and family.

 

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the vibrant Mexican culinary scene. Salud!