Cantarito is a delightful Mexican cocktail that is perfect for those hot summer days when you want something refreshing and tangy. This cocktail is made with a combination of tequila, freshly squeezed citrus juices, and grapefruit soda. It is typically served in a clay pot, which adds to its unique and authentic presentation.
To make a cantarito, you will need a few key ingredients. First and foremost, tequila is the star of this cocktail. You can use either blanco or reposado tequila, depending on your preference. Blanco tequila has a clean and crisp taste, while reposado tequila has been aged in oak barrels, giving it a smoother and more complex flavor.
Next, you will need a variety of fresh citrus juices. The most common citrus fruits used in a cantarito are lime, lemon, and orange. These citrus juices provide a zesty and tangy flavor that balances out the sweetness of the grapefruit soda.
Speaking of grapefruit soda, it is an essential component of a cantarito. One popular brand of grapefruit soda used in Mexico is Jarritos, which is known for its authentic and natural flavors. The grapefruit soda adds a bubbly and slightly sweet element to the cocktail, making it even more refreshing.
Now let’s talk about the preparation of a cantarito. To start, you will need a clay pot, also known as a cantarito. The clay pot not only adds to the aesthetic appeal of the cocktail but also helps to keep it cool, as clay has natural cooling properties.
Begin by filling the clay pot with ice. This will ensure that your drink stays chilled throughout the enjoyment. Next, add the tequila. The amount of tequila you add can vary depending on your preference and the size of your clay pot. I usually start with about 2 ounces of tequila for a standard-sized cantarito.
After adding the tequila, it’s time to squeeze in the fresh citrus juices. Start with the lime juice, as it provides a tart and tangy base for the cocktail. Squeeze the juice of one lime into the clay pot, or adjust the amount to your taste. Follow this with the juice of half a lemon and half an orange. These citrus juices add complexity and depth to the cocktail.
Once you’ve added the tequila and citrus juices, it’s time to top off the cantarito with grapefruit soda. Slowly pour the soda into the clay pot until it reaches the brim. The grapefruit soda will mix with the other ingredients, creating a delightful and effervescent cocktail.
Now that your cantarito is prepared, it’s time to enjoy it. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and enticing aroma of the cocktail. The combination of tequila, citrus juices, and grapefruit soda creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both refreshing and invigorating.
When taking a sip of the cantarito, you’ll immediately notice the bright and tangy citrus notes, followed by the smooth and slightly smoky undertones of the tequila. The grapefruit soda adds a crisp and fizzy element to the cocktail, making each sip a burst of flavor.
I have had the pleasure of enjoying a cantarito on a sunny beach in Mexico, and it was truly a memorable experience. The combination of the clay pot, the vibrant colors of the cocktail, and the refreshing taste made it the perfect drink to sip on while lounging by the ocean.
A cantarito is a delicious Mexican cocktail that combines tequila, fresh citrus juices, and grapefruit soda. It is typically served in a clay pot, which adds to its unique presentation. Whether you’re enjoying it on a beach vacation or simply looking for a refreshing drink to cool off, a cantarito is sure to satisfy your cravings for a tangy and invigorating cocktail.