Viva Mexican Independence Day!

The bilateral relationship between the United States and Mexico is complex.  There are thorny challenges that dog the two neighbors:  Illegal immigration, narco-terrorism, and, of course, the always fraught interactions between Speedy Gonzales and Daffy Duck.  So, in honor of Mexican Independence Day (9/16), I’d like to offer this column as a gesture of friendship.

Living in California, Mexican culture is part of the landscape and Tequila is a very well consumed spirit.  However, apart from the Long Island Ice Tea and iconic Margarita, Tequila is not widely mixed as a cocktail.  On the up side, part of the reason is because many are discovering the wonder of fine Tequila and enjoying it on its own.  But even in Mexican bars, Tequila-based cocktails are few and far between.  This is muy malo, because quality Tequila that is properly mixed offers an engaging depth of flavor and refreshing change of pace.  Just because it’s made from a cactus doesn’t mean you have to fear its spines.

So, raise a glass in celebration of our neighbors to the south, because that’s what good neighbors do.  And, because Daffy Duck was a bit of a jerk and we should make up for that.

                                                  Mexico Lindo

                                                  Ingredients

                     * 1 ½ oz. Tequila  * ½ oz. Blue Curacau  * ½ oz. Lemon Juice

The Mexico Lindo draws its name from an old mariachi song, which is about as Mexican as it gets.  A culture’s music is a culture’s soul.  Isn’t that right all you Britney fans?  Anyway, start with an Old Fashion, or any 3-5 oz. glass, with ice.  Pour in your ingredients and give it a stir.  Garnish with a lemon wedge and serve while wearing your best oversized mariachi hat.

                                                       TNT

                                                 Ingredients

                        * 2 oz. Tequila  * 6 oz. Tonic Water  * ½ oz. Lime Juice

The evening before Independence Day, many Mexican towns celebrate by setting off a papier-mâché castle packed with different kinds of fireworks.  So, this seems a fitting cocktail to help celebrate.  It’s actually a riff on the classic Gin and Tonic except that the use of Tequila allows for the second “t” to be inserted for a much cooler and catchier name.  By way of a disclaimer, the ingredient measurements are highly controversial.  I’ve seen recipes that call for a closer to 2:1 blend of Tequila and Tonic Water, so there’s a fair amount of room to tinker and experiment.  Fill a Highball or Collins glass about half-full with ice and pour in your desired proportion of booze v. tonic.  Finish with the Lime Juice, stir, and garnish with a lime wedge.  Viva Mexico!

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