Hello Foodie Friends,
National Tequila Day is almost here, and we’re celebrating in style! That is why I will share with you some Tequila history and the 5 best cocktails and their perfect finger food pairings to enjoy tequila on this special day.
Tequila is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant, which is native to Mexico.
The earliest evidence of tequila production dates back to around 250-300 A.D., when the Aztecs fermented the juice of the agave plant to produce a ceremonial wine called pulque. Pulque was sacred to the Aztecs, and it was often used in religious ceremonies and festivals.
In the 1600s, Spanish colonists introduced distillation to Mexico, and this led to the development of tequila as we know it today. The first commercial distillery in Mexico was built in the town of Tequila in 1608, and by the 1700s, tequila was being produced in several other towns in the state of Jalisco.
The first tequila distillery in the United States was opened in 1830, and by the end of the century, tequila was being exported to Europe and other parts of the world.
Tequila production experienced a major boom in the 1940s and 1950s, as it became increasingly popular in the United States. In 1974, the Mexican government declared tequila to be a protected product, which means that only tequila produced in the state of Jalisco can be labeled as such.
A proposal was made to the Mexican Senate proposing that a special day be set aside each year to celebrate Tequila. The proposal was approved, and National Tequila Day was officially designated as July 24th.
July 24th is also the birthday of Don Julio González, who is considered to be the father of modern tequila. González was born in 1899 in the town of Jesús María, Jalisco, Mexico. He began working in the tequila industry at a young age, and in 1942 he founded the tequila brand that bears his name. Don Julio González is credited with pioneering a number of innovations in tequila production, including the use of mature agave plants and the aging of tequila in oak barrels.
Today, tequila is one of the most popular spirits in the world. It is enjoyed in a variety of ways, including neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
Here you have the 5 best cocktails and their best finger food pairings to enjoy on National Tequila Day:
Margarita: A Margarita is the most popular tequila cocktail in the world. It is made with tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and simple syrup. The margarita is typically served on the rocks with a salt rim. Shrimp cocktail is a classic Mexican dish that is perfect for a margarita party. It is made with shrimp, cocktail sauce, and horseradish. The shrimp cocktail is typically served in a glass with a side of crackers or bread.
Tequila Sunrise: The Tequila Sunrise is a refreshing cocktail made with tequila, orange juice, grenadine, and club soda. The Tequila Sunrise is typically served in a tall glass with a cherry and an orange slice garnish. Quesadillas are a Mexican dish that is a great pairing for Tequila Sunrise. The cheese in the quesadillas adds richness and creaminess to the dish, and the tortilla provides a nice contrast in texture.
Paloma: The Paloma is a Mexican cocktail made with tequila, grapefruit juice, and lime juice. The Paloma is typically served in a highball glass with a grapefruit wedge and a lime wedge garnish. Tacos are a great option for finger food that pairs well with Palomas. The fillings in the tacos can be customized to your liking, so you can create a dish that perfectly complements the drink. Some good options for taco fillings include grilled fish, shrimp, chicken, or beef.
Cantarito: The Cantarito is a must try cocktail for tequila lovers. Is made with tequila, orange juice, lemon juice, lime juice, grapefruit soda and salt. This tasty tequila drink is similar to a Paloma, but it is got more citrus juices like orange, lemon and lime juice. Layer it in a traditional clay cup, and the effect is stunning. If you don´t have a clay cup you can serve it in a highball glass too. Nachos are a popular Mexican snack that are made with tortilla chips, cheese, and your favorite toppings. They can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as ground beef, beans, vegetables, and sour cream. Nachos are a great way to share with friends and family and are a perfect finger food for a Cantarito party.
Siesta: This is an unexpected combination of tequila, Campari and fresh citrus juice, and is deliciously intriguing. Each sip is balanced and refreshing, with a sweet tart body and a hint of bitterness on the finish. Guacamole is a classic Mexican dip made with avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice. It is the perfect dip for tortilla chips and is a great way to start your Siesta party.
Tequila is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. From margaritas to Palomas, there is a tequila cocktail for everyone. And when it comes to finger food, there are endless possibilities. So, to celebrate National Tequila Day, reach for a bottle of tequila and enjoy a night of delicious food and drinks with friends or family.
I hope you enjoy these tequila cocktails and finger foods as much as I do!
Until we eat (and drink) again…
I send you Delicious Wishes, xo
Denise
