INTRODUCTION
The Michelada is a cocktail with so many variations, but the version from Mexico is probably the most well known. It is sometimes called the ‘Mexican Bloody Mary’, but it does have very distinct characteristics to set itself apart. For the sake of this post, we are going to talk about making the ‘classic’ version of this drink. As with any Michelada, use our advice and recipe as a foundation to build upon. Everyone makes their own version to fit their taste. If you want less tomato juice and more lime juice, go for it. This is your drink.
WHAT DOES A MICHELADA TASTE LIKE?
A Michelada is a very refreshing drink for warm weather months and climates. With that said, it’s a cocktail that combines many different flavors with each sip. It joins salty, sour, spicy and tomato flavors all in one punch. Of those, the tomato base makes up the foundation of this drink. For that reason it’s similar to a bloody mary. The big difference is that a Michelada is made with beer and not vodka. If you’re looking for a tomato based cocktail that doesn’t hit you as hard, a Michelada might be the perfect drink for you.
INGREDIENTS (Amazon Links Below)
- Tajin Powder – This powder has a spicy/sour flavor that resembles chili & lime. For most Micheladas it is used to coat the rim of the glass and give each sip some extra bite.
- Clamato – Clamato is a combination of tomato juice and clam broth. For that reason it is not vegan. Any tomato juice will make a great substitute.
- Hot Sauce – Hot sauce adds an extra spice to each sip. In this recipe we use Tapatio Hot Sauce. You’re allowed to leave it out, but we wouldn’t recommend it.
- Jugo Maggi – This seasoning sauce is packed with a salty flavor. Too much can quickly overpower this Michelada. Usually 1 spoonful will be enough.
- 3 Limes – These limes will give your drink a citrus and sour flavor that you’re tongue will enjoy. You will also need them to rim the glass with lime juice.
- Ice – A Michelada needs ice. Have enough to fill at least half of your glass.
- Beer – Any beer will do, but a Mexican Lager such as Corona, Modelo or Tecate is the traditional beer choice.
- Cecina Beef Jerky to Garnish (Optional)
HOW TO MAKE A CLASSIC MICHELADA
Rim the glass with Tajin
- To start, take a lime and cut it into quarters. Use one of the lime wedges to rim the glass with lime juice.
- Pour some of the Tajin powder onto a plate and spread it around evenly.
- With your glass upside down, slowly roll the rim of the glass into the Tajin powder. You’ll want a nice coating around the entire rim.
Making the drink
- Pour ice into your glass. I like to pour about half full, but you can fill ice to the top.
- Add the Clamato Juice. I usually pour about 1/3 the way up the glass.
- Put a spoonful of hot sauce. Include more to really spice it up.
- Add a spoonful of Jugo Maggi.
- Squeeze lime juice from your other two limes into the glass.
- Pour the whole can of beer.
- Top off the drink with more Clamato
- Stir and garnish with El Norteño’s Original Cecina Beef Jerky
