Mexican Cantaritos is a refreshing and flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. This traditional drink is a delightful blend of tequila, citrus juices, and a splash of soda, served in a clay pot known as a “cantarito.” The drink is kept colder and the whole experience is improved by the rustic appeal of the clay pot. Cantaritos are a terrific place to start if you want to add a little bit of Mexico to your home. Here are some straightforward procedures and basic ingredients to follow to make the greatest Mexican Cantaritos.
What Are Cantaritos?
Cantaritos is a classic Mexican cocktail originating from the state of Jalisco, where tequila is produced. The drink is similar to a Paloma but has its unique twist. It combines tequila with freshly squeezed citrus juices—usually lime, orange, and grapefruit—topped with a splash of grapefruit soda. The beverage is typically served in tiny clay cups that retain its coolness and lend it a genuine earthy flavor. Cantaritos are a favorite dish in Mexican street fairs, celebrations, and get-togethers because of their bright, spicy flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect Mexican Cantaritos:
For the Cocktail:
- 2 oz tequila (preferably blanco)
- 1 oz fresh lime juice
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup or agave nectar (optional, for sweetness)
- A pinch of salt
- Grapefruit soda (like Squirt or Fresca), to top off
- Ice cubes
For Garnish:
- Lime wedges
- Orange slices
- Grapefruit slices
- Tajín (optional, for rimming the glass)
For Serving:
- Traditional clay pot (cantarito) or a highball glass if a clay pot is not available
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Glass or Cantarito:
- To assist chill a traditional clay pot (cantarito), quickly give it a brief rinse in cold water. If you’re using a glass, you can add more flavor by rimming it with Tajín. To achieve this, run a lime wedge along the glass’s rim and coat it by dipping it into a plate of Tajín.
2. Mix the Citrus Juices:
- In a shaker or directly in the clay pot, combine the fresh lime juice, orange juice, and grapefruit juice. The combination of these citrus fruits creates a bright and zesty base for your Cantaritos. If you prefer your drink on the sweeter side, add the simple syrup or agave nectar at this stage.
3. Add the Tequila:
- Pour the tequila into the mixture of citrus juices. Blanco tequila is preferred for its smooth, clean flavor that pairs perfectly with the bright acidity of the citrus.
4. Add Ice and Salt:
- Fill the cantarito or glass with ice cubes. Add a pinch of salt to the mixture, which helps to balance the flavors and enhance the sweetness of the citrus.
5. Top with Grapefruit Soda:
- Top off the drink with a splash of grapefruit soda. The soda adds a slight effervescence and a touch of sweetness, making the drink even more refreshing. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
6. Garnish and Serve:
- For an additional blast of color and zesty aroma, garnish your Cantaritos with a slice of grapefruit, an orange, or a lime. The citrus and tequila will be wonderfully complemented by the spicy-salty Tajín rim of the glass.
7. Enjoy:
- Sip and savor your Mexican Cantaritos. The combination of tequila, fresh citrus, and soda creates a refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for warm days, festive gatherings, or simply unwinding after a long day.
Tips for the Perfect Cantaritos
- Use Fresh Citrus: The key to a great Cantaritos is using fresh, high-quality citrus juices. Freshly squeezed lime, orange, and grapefruit juice will provide the best flavor and balance.
- Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Depending on your preference, you can adjust the sweetness of your Cantaritos. If you like a sweeter drink, add more simple syrup or agave nectar. If you prefer it more tart, you can skip the sweetener altogether.
- Chill Your Ingredients: Make sure your soda, citrus juices, and tequila are cold before combining for the coolest Cantaritos. If you want to keep the drink colder for longer, you can also chill your glass or clay pot beforehand.
Conclusion
Mexican Cantaritos is a refreshing and vibrant cocktail that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its bright citrus flavors and the smooth kick of tequila, this drink is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Cantaritos delivers a delightful and authentic taste of Mexico, whether served in traditional clay pots or in glasses rimmed with Tajín. So get your ingredients ready, prepare a batch, and savor the crisp tastes of this traditional Mexican drink. Salutations!
