Welcome to the Festival del Sabor at Azucar Restaurant! In this article, we will explore a fundamental aspect of the rich Mexican culture: its traditional drinks. From refreshing aguas fresca to iconic cocktails, drinks in Mexico not only accompany food, but also tell stories and traditions that connect us to our roots.
Aguas Frescas
Aguas frescas are delicious and refreshing drinks that are made with fruits, flowers, or seeds. Traditionally, they are consumed in homes and restaurants in Mexico, especially on hot days. These drinks are easy to prepare and offer a great way to enjoy the freshness of fruit.
Agua de Jamaica
The hibiscus flower is a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine. This drink, with its vibrant red color and slightly acidic taste, is perfect for pairing with spicy dishes.
Recipe:
1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
4 cups water
Sugar to taste
Lemon juice to taste
Boil the hibiscus flowers in 4 cups of water for 10 minutes.
Strain the mixture and sweeten to taste with sugar and lemon juice.
Serve cold with ice.
Horchata Water
Horchata is another iconic drink made from rice, cinnamon and vanilla. Its creaminess makes it the ideal accompaniment to tacos al pastor.
Recipe:
1 cup rice
5 cups water
1 cup milk
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Sugar to taste
Soak the rice in water for several hours, then drain and blend with fresh water.
Strain the mixture and add milk, cinnamon and sugar.
Serve cold.
Iconic Cocktails
Mexican cocktails are a mix of tradition, flavor and creativity. Two of the most well-known are the Margarita and the Paloma, each with its own unique history.
Margarita
The Margarita is one of Mexico’s most iconic cocktails. Its origin is debated, but it is said to have been created in the 1930s in honor of actress Rita Hayworth. This cocktail combines tequila, orange liqueur, and lemon juice, creating a perfect balance between sweet and sour.
Recipe:
2 oz tequila
1 oz orange liqueur (Triple sec or Cointreau)
1 oz fresh lemon juice
Salt to rim the glass (optional)
Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.
Shake well and strain into a salt-rimmed glass.
Garnish with a lemon wedge.
Pairing: The Margarita goes perfectly with our Fish Tacos from Azucar Restaurant. The freshness of the fish complements the acidity of the drink.
Paloma
Considered by many to be Mexico’s national cocktail, the Paloma is a refreshing mix of tequila and grapefruit soda. This bubbly drink is great for any occasion.
Recipe:
2 oz tequila
3 oz grapefruit soda
1 oz fresh lime juice
Salt to rim the glass (optional)
Fill a glass with ice and add the tequila and lime juice.
Top off with grapefruit soda and stir gently.
Frost the rim of the glass with salt, if desired.
Pairing: Enjoy the Paloma with our Nachos with Queso Fundido, its saltiness brings out the flavors of the drink.
The Festival of Flavor at Azucar Restaurant is a celebration not only of the food, but also of the drinks that accompany it. We invite you to explore our menu and discover how each drink can enhance a dish. From refreshing agua fresca to cocktails steeped in history, every drink is an invitation to a journey through Mexican culture.
