Introduction
When the sun is blazing and the heat is relentless, there's nothing quite like a chilled Cerveza Preparada to quench your thirst. This Mexican beer cocktail is simplicity at its finest, combining the crispness of lager with the tang of lime and a hint of salt. It's the ultimate refreshment for a sunny day, whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue.
The Cerveza Preparada is a staple in Mexican culture, often enjoyed at festive gatherings and casual hangouts alike. Its roots can be traced back to the tradition of enhancing beer with lime and salt, a practice that elevates the natural flavors of the brew and adds a refreshing twist. This cocktail is a testament to the idea that sometimes, less is more—where a few key ingredients can transform a simple drink into something truly satisfying.
Fun fact: The Cerveza Preparada is part of a larger family of Mexican beer cocktails, including the popular Michelada, which adds hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce to the mix. But if you're looking for a straightforward, thirst-quenching option, the Cerveza Preparada is your go-to choice.
Ingredients
Creating a Cerveza Preparada is all about using fresh, quality ingredients to enhance the beer's natural flavor. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is preferred for its coarse texture, which adheres well to the rim of the glass.
- 1 Lime: Fresh lime is essential for that vibrant citrus kick. Roll the lime on the counter before juicing to maximize the amount of juice extracted.
- 12 oz Lager: Choose a light lager for the best results. Mexican lagers like Corona or Modelo work beautifully, but feel free to experiment with your favorite.
Instructions
Crafting a Cerveza Preparada is a breeze, requiring only a few simple steps. Here's how to make this refreshing cocktail:
- Cover a small plate with salt. Run a lime wedge around the rim of a chilled collins glass and roll the glass in the salt.
- Fill the glass half full with ice cubes and juice the lime into the glass.
- Pour the beer into the glass from high up, allowing the drink to mix naturally.
Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice to the beer before pouring it into the glass.
- Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes beforehand to keep your cocktail icy cold.
- Experiment with different types of salt, such as sea salt or flavored salts, to add a unique twist to the rim.
- Try adding a slice of lime to the finished drink for a pop of color and an extra citrus aroma.
Conclusion
The Cerveza Preparada is more than just a cocktail; it's a celebration of simplicity and flavor. With its refreshing combination of lime, salt, and lager, it's the perfect companion for any sunny day. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a casual drinker, this easy-to-make drink is sure to become a staple in your repertoire.
Ready to explore more cocktail recipes and share your creations? Download the BarBot app to discover a world of flavors, log your experiences, and connect with fellow cocktail enthusiasts. With BarBot, you can keep track of your favorite variations, rate different beers, and capture the perfect photo of your Cerveza Preparada masterpiece. Cheers to new adventures in mixology!
Cerveza Preparada recipe adapted from The 12 Bottle Bar by David Solmonson and Lesley Jacobs Solmonson.
