How to make traditional Mexican michelada

Beer is not only a refreshing drink that is highly rated by many, but it can also be the perfect base ingredient for surprising cocktails. Among them, the michelada cocktail stands out as a refreshing, versatile drink that is ideal for many different occasions. We are going to tell you everything you need to know about how to make and enjoy this Mexican drink, “Ándale!” as they say in Mexico.
 

What is a michelada?

A michelada is a Mexican cocktail that combines beer with lemon, salt and sometimes sauces and spices. It originally dates back to Mexico in the 70's, and although there are several different versions, the most well known owes its name to a customer called Michel Ésper, who always ordered his beer with lemon and salt.

Despite devout beer lovers probably believing it is a sin to add other ingredients to beer, the truth is that it is a lighter, tasty option for enjoying it without ingesting too much alcohol. We can even add some ice to dilute the alcohol. Furthermore, a michelada can serve as the base for other variations according to taste. We are going to give you the basic recipe and a couple of suggestions to give it a more personal, sophisticated touch. 

Michelada ingredients

The ingredients you will need to make a michelada are as follows:

• 1 x 355 ml clear beer such as Corona.
• 2 spoonfuls of lime juice.
• Crushed ice (approximately one third of the amount of beer).
• Salt (to form a frost on the rim of the glass). 

Preparation:

• Form a frost on the rim of the glass using salt: moisten the rim and dip it in a bowl of salt.
• Add the crushed ice and lime juice.
• Pour the beer in slowly and mix it slowly.

We are also going to give you a couple of suggestions to give a different twist to the michelada, personalising flavours and aromas without changing the essence of this cocktail.

• Add a few drops of Teriyaki and Worcester sauce and a pinch of chilli powder. It is best to be conservative rather than to add too much, so we recommend adding it bit by bit.
• Try using a fruity beer with lower alcohol content, such as Tyris Lemon & Melon or a fruity Radler, and then add some cardamom seeds for a singular, spicy touch.

Types of michelada

There are many types of michelada depending on the combination of flavours. Some of the most noteworthy are as follows:

• Cuban michelada, with dark beer, Tabasco sauce, Worcestershire sauce and tomato juice.
• Chamoy michelada, using alcohol-free beer, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, liquid chamoy, salt, pepper and a pinch of chilli powder.
• Tamarind michelada, using alcohol-free beer, tamarind and lemon juice Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper and a pinch of chilli powder.
• “La Endiablada” with lemon juice, salt, Tabasco sauce, tequila and chilli powder. 

What should a michelada be served with? 

A michelada is at its best when we combine it with traditional Mexican cuisine. Here are some ideas!

• Al Pastor Tacos or Carnitas Tacos. The intensity of the spicy meat and texture of the fresh corn combine perfectly with the tanginess of the lemon and slightly salty taste of the michelada. Each bite is balanced out with the freshness of the drink.
• Totopos with guacamole sauce. The crunchy totopos and the smooth guacamole sauce make the perfect contrast for the bitterness of the beer, creating a simple pairing bursting with flavour.
• Elotes (Corn on the cob roasted with butter, chilli and cheese). The natural sweetness of the corn and the spicy chilli pair perfectly with the freshness and acidity of the michelada, making each sip even more refreshing.
• Quesadillas and spicy sauces. The melted cheese and lively sauces are balanced out with the lightness of the beer, while the ice and salt soften the stronger flavours, combining the ingredients in perfect harmony.

A michelada is much more than just a cocktail: it is a versatile, refreshing experience that highlights the creativity of Mexican cuisine and the diversity of beer. How about trying one?