Sangrita

If you ever had tequila in college or at any other point during your youth, you probably liked it as a shooter, downing it fast after licking some salt and then biting into a lime wedge. Perhaps as you grew older, you came to appreciate the subtleties, depths, and complexity of the well-known Mexican agave spirit and began to drink it neat, much like you would a fine brandy or whiskey. If so, there is still a custom associated with tequila consumption, which is to pair it with sangrita.

Discover the Vibrant Flavor of Sangrita: A Refreshing Non-Alcoholic Drink

Sangrita is a delightful non-alcoholic drink that brilliantly combines tomato and citrus flavors. Despite its name, it has little in common with Sangria, aside from the similar sound and the word "bloody." In fact, Sangrita is more akin to a Bloody Mary—minus the vodka and bursting with zesty citrus notes. This versatile drink has become increasingly popular, particularly as a refreshing accompaniment to tequila.

What is Sangrita?

Originating from the Jalisco region of Mexico, Sangrita is a spicy and tangy beverage that enhances the tequila experience. While it traditionally includes tomato juice, recipes vary widely, with some versions opting for more citrus and others incorporating fruits like cucumber, papaya, or mango. The common thread among all recipes is a touch of heat, which can come from hot sauce, fresh peppers, or both.

The Rise in Popularity

For many years, Sangrita was relatively unknown outside of Jalisco. However, its vibrant flavors have caught the attention of mixologists and tequila enthusiasts alike, leading to its emergence in bars and restaurants around the world. Bottled versions are now available in stores and online, but nothing beats the fresh, homemade version.

A Recipe from the Experts

This particular Sangrita recipe comes from renowned San Francisco bartender and cocktail consultant Jacques Bezuidenhout, who favors a bold and citrusy take on this classic drink. His method balances the warmth of the jalapeño and hot sauce with the sweetness of the tomato and the zest of the citrus.

Ingredients for Sangrita

To make your own refreshing Sangrita, you will need the following ingredients:

15 ounces tomato juice
6 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
6 ounces freshly squeezed orange juice
2 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice
2 ounces Tabasco sauce (or your favorite hot sauce)
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 jalapeño pepper, halved (with seeds for extra heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Sangrita:

Combine Ingredients: In a pitcher, mix together the tomato juice, grapefruit juice, orange juice, lime juice, Tabasco sauce, black pepper, salt, and the halved jalapeño pepper. Stir until the salt is fully dissolved.
Infuse the Heat: Allow the mixture to stand for 15 to 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the flavors meld and the jalapeño infuse its heat into the sangrita. Remember, the longer the jalapeño remains, the spicier your drink will become.
Remove the Jalapeño: After the infusion time, remove the jalapeño pepper and discard it.
Serve: Sangrita is best served fresh as an accompaniment to a shot of tequila. The combination elevates the tasting experience, allowing you to enjoy each sip of tequila alongside the refreshing zing of Sangrita.
Store Leftovers: If you have any remaining Sangrita, store it in the refrigerator. It will last about a week, but for the best flavor, consume it within the first couple of days.

Enjoying Sangrita with tea

According to Bezuidenhout, pairing Sangrita with tequila transforms the way you savor this classic spirit. "You’ll have a little sip of tequila, and you’ll have a little sip of sangrita," he says. This method enhances the tequila's natural flavors and adds a delightful kick to your drinking experience.

Conclusion

Sangrita is not just a refreshing drink; it's an experience that complements the rich heritage of tequila. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening, this vibrant, non-alcoholic beverage is sure to impress. Try making it at home and discover how it can elevate your tequila tasting adventures. Embrace the flavors of Sangrita and enhance your next cocktail hour!

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