Mexican cuisine has made a significant impact in contemporary culinary landscape, captivating palates worldwide with its hearty, nostalgic, and deeply flavorful profile.
Margaritas
The Margarita’s reputation precedes it – this iconic Mexican drink is a staple of summer gatherings, served in pitchers and cherished for its revitalizing, light flavor. Despite the mystery surrounding its true beginnings, one thing is certain: the Margarita has become an integral part of our global cocktail culture.
According to historians, written records of the Margarita date back to the late 1930s, where it was mentioned as a tequila-based alternative to the Brandy Daisy – a brandy-based drink that originated in the United States during the 19th century. Regardless of its exact origin story, the Margarita’s enduring popularity is undeniable, making it a go-to choice for cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
Pulque
Pulque, an ancient agave-derived drink from Mexico, predates the Spanish influence on the culture. This fermented sap of the maguey plant is considered by many historians to be the natural precursor to mezcal, with its production dating back to a time before the Spanish conquest. It was then that the Spanish introduced their knowledge of distillation, leading to the creation of a more potent and mass-produced mezcal spirit.
Despite this, pulque has retained its place as a traditional Mexican drink, offering mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts a rustic and historic treat.
Michelada
In the sweltering summer heat, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing Michelada to quench your thirst. This distinctly Mexican beer-based cocktail combines the crispness of beer with the tanginess of lime juice and the spicy kick of chili sauces, making it an ideal alternative to traditional beer. The drink typically comes with a rim of chili powder around the glass, adding an extra layer of depth to its bold flavor profile.
Legend has it that the Michelada originated in the 1960s at the Club Deportivo Potosino in San Luis Potosi. According to lore, a man named Michel Esper would order his beer with lime, salt, ice, and a straw, much like you’d enjoy a glass of lemonade. As friends and fellow club members began to mimic Michel’s drink, the name evolved from ‘Michel’s lemonade’ to simply ‘Michelada,’ eventually becoming the popular cocktail we know today.
Kalimotxo
In Mexican culture, one modern tradition that has gained significant traction is the ‘Kalimotxo’, which involves mixing red wine with Coca Cola. This refreshing cocktail has become a staple in bars and homes alike, particularly among students and younger individuals. The drink’s appeal lies in its affordability, strength, simplicity, and accessibility, relying only on two inexpensive ingredients that are widely available and easy to consume.
While it may not be steeped in history, the ‘Kalimotxo’ has earned a place on this list due to its distinctly Spanish flair and fruity flavor profile, making it an integral part of working-class culture in Mexico.
Paloma
A beloved cocktail worldwide, the Paloma boasts a unique identity as both a Mexican tradition and a global favorite among mixologists and enthusiasts. Its striking pink hue, light taste, and versatility make it an iconic summer drink. The name ‘Paloma’ translates to ‘dove’ in Spanish, reflecting the tequila-based concoction’s delicate nature.
While adaptable to various citrus fruits, the classic pairing of tequila with pink grapefruit juice is what gives the Paloma its signature refreshing flavor and subtle pink tint.
Carajillo
In Mexico’s tradition of hot, spirited beverages, the Carajillo stands out as a unique and flavorful concoction. This drink is essentially hot coffee infused with a shot of tequila or mezcal – two spirits known for their complex flavors. While some variations may incorporate other types of liquor, the core combination remains the same.
The result is a beverage that shares similarities with Irish coffee, but replaces the latter’s characteristic whiskey flavor with the distinct notes of Mexican spirits.
Mangonada
The Mangonada, a refreshing and vibrant ‘shaved ice’ beverage, has gained immense popularity in both Mexico and the United States. Its striking yellow-orange-red hue is only matched by its bold flavor profile, which combines the sweetness of mango with the spiciness of chili powder. The classic recipe typically consists of a medley of ingredients, including ripe mango, tangy chamoy, a squeeze of fresh lime juice, and a sprinkle of fiery chili powder.
As a summertime staple, the Mangonada is a testament to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage, where fruit and spice have long been intertwined in a delicious dance. Its unique fusion of flavors has won over many fans, making it an ideal treat for warm weather gatherings.
Mezcalita
The Mezcalita cocktail, a refreshing summer drink, blends the bold flavors of mezcal with the brightness of citrus juice, reminiscent of its cousin, the Margarita. The addition of salt and Mexican spices adds depth and warmth to this smoky concoction, making it a staple among Mexico’s thirsty masses and enthusiasts alike. With its harmonious balance of spicy, sour, and savory notes, the Mezcalita is sure to quench your thirst on a hot summer day.
Mexican Mojito
Mexico’s affinity for Cuba’s Havana drink stems from its refreshing, crisp taste, which has inspired a range of local variations. One notable adaptation is the Mexican Mojito, which swaps traditional white rum for tequila, infusing the classic cocktail with a distinctly Mexican flair.
Despite being a non-traditional entry on this list, there’s something undeniably Gulf Coast about this drink, born from the fusion of two rich cultural heritages and resulting in an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experience.
Tejuino
In the Mexican states of Chihuahua and Jalisco, a refreshing cold beverage has been a staple for centuries. The Tejuino is made by fermenting corn, a process that yields a rich and creamy drink reminiscent of a milkshake. A mixture of corn dough, water, and piloncillo (a type of cane sugar) is boiled until thickened, resulting in a sweet treat that’s been dubbed the ‘drink of the Gods’ by the Pre-Columbian Nahua people.
Today, this beloved beverage can be found at street vendors throughout Mexico, served in cups or small plastic bags for an affordable and delicious pick-me-up.
Cucumber Aguas Fresca
Reinventing the classic Aguas Fresca, this innovative concoction breathes new life into the traditional summer staple by swapping out seasonal fruits for the crispness of cucumber and the zesty zip of lime. The result is a revitalizing, low-calorie drink that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Sangria
Sangria, a legendary Latin drink, has been delighting palates since its introduction to Mexico during the Spanish conquest. This refreshing fruit-based wine punch is served chilled over ice, making it perfect for hot summer days or casual gatherings with friends. The name Sangria originates from ‘sanguine’ (blood), literally translating to ‘bloodletting’ in Iberian, a nod to the drink’s signature blood red hue.
When not enjoyed on its own, Sangria is often elevated by combining it with solid fresh fruit segments, berries, and citrus juices, or even spirits like brandy to create a richer flavor profile.
Tequila Sunrise
In the realm of Mexican spirits, tequila stands out as an iconic drink known for its bold flavor profile and versatility in pairings. Its reputation as a party favorite is well-deserved, given the countless ways it can be enjoyed – from sipping neat to crafting creative cocktails. Among the many beloved tequila drinks, the Tequila Sunrise takes center stage as a quintessential Mexican treat that embodies the essence of summer.
This refreshing classic has won over the hearts of cocktail aficionados and mixologists alike, making it a must-try for anyone looking to experience the best of Mexico’s spirits.
Mezcal Old Fashioned
Mezcal, often overshadowed by its more famous counterpart tequila, boasts a rich history that predates the 15th century Spanish conquest of Mexico. For centuries, mezcal was revered as the ‘elixir of the Gods’, with agave plants being cooked, fermented, and consumed as part of ritualistic practices. This ancient tradition has been revived in modern times, as mezcal’s smoky flavors and versatility have made it a popular choice for cocktails.
A standout example is the Mezcal Old Fashioned, a Latin twist on the classic bourbon cocktail that combines angostura bitters and sugar to create a bold take on a traditional New York staple.
Champurrado
In Mexican culture, there’s a beloved tradition that warms hearts during the holiday season: champurrado, also known as Mexican hot chocolate. This rich, sweet drink is an atole, similar to a corn-based soup, but with a velvety chocolate twist. For centuries, it has been a staple in many households, particularly around festivals like Day of the Dead and Las Posadas.
During these celebrations, champurrado often accompanies tamales, and its rich flavor can be elevated with a splash of alcohol or enjoyed as is. The combination of spices, corn, and chocolate creates a comforting and indulgent treat that’s perfect for cozying up with loved ones.
Ponche Navideno
In Mexico, the holiday season is synonymous with Ponche Navideno, a warm and inviting fruit punch that’s been a staple at family gatherings for generations. This traditional drink, which can be enjoyed with or without a splash of liquor, is simmered to perfection on the stovetop, allowing guests to help themselves to a comforting cup. With its rich, fruity flavor profile evoking memories of Europe’s famous hot mead, Ponche Navideno is the perfect wintertime treat to share with loved ones.
Aguas Frescas
A refreshing and revitalizing drink, Agua Frescas is a non-alcoholic beverage that has been a staple in many Latin American cultures for centuries. Also known as ‘cool waters’ or ‘fresh waters’, this sweet treat is typically made with a combination of cereals, fruits, flowers, seeds, sugar, and water. The ingredients may vary depending on the region and personal preferences, but the end result is always a delightful and thirst-quenching drink.
This popular beverage has a rich history that dates back to pre-Spanish times in Mexico, where it was first created as a way to enjoy the natural abundance of the land. Street vendors, juice bars, cafes, and bodegas are just a few places where you can find Agua Frescas, which is a refreshing reminder of the simple joys in life.
Final Thoughts
With 20 traditional Mexican beverages showcased, each one rich in history, cultural significance, and delectable flavor, it’s no wonder why Mexican drinks and cuisine have gained worldwide acclaim. The sheer variety on display is an invitation to explore and discover the unique character of each drink. So, take the opportunity to give them a try – I’m confident you’ll find something that satisfies your taste buds!
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.