Here in Jakarta where it’s warm year-round, there’s nothing like a vibrant, refreshing cocktail to brighten up the mood. Cantarito is a great drink, famously popular during the warmer months in four-season countries. This Mexican cocktail has become a seasonal favourite, perfect for poolside gatherings, barbecues, or casual nights out. Here’s a breakdown of what makes Cantarito the cocktail of the summer and how you can make your own.
What is a Cantarito?
Cantarito is a traditional Mexican cocktail that is especially rich in flavour. The word “cantarito” itself means “clay mug,” which is what is traditionally used to serve the drink. It has a tequila base, mixed with fresh citrus juices and a splash of grapefruit soda. The clay mug is the key to keeping the drink cool for a longer period of time, enhancing the flavours of the ingredients.
How to make a Cantarito
Make your own Mexican summer happen at home with this Cantarito recipe. It’s surprisingly easy and only requires a handful of ingredients!
You’ll need:
- 60ml tequila
- Freshly squeezed juice of 1 lime, 1 orange, and 1 grapefruit
- A pinch of salt
- Ice
- Grapefruit soda to top up
- Optional garnish: lime and grapefruit slices
If you don’t have a clay mug to serve this drink in, don’t worry! A large glass works just fine.
Start by filling your mug or glass with ice. Add in a pinch of salt, then pour in your tequila. Then, squeeze in the juices from all the fruits – you can customize the amount to your liking!
Finally, stir everything together and top it off with a grapefruit soda for a fizzy finish. Garnish with lime and grapefruit slices, and that’s it! Your Cantarito is ready to be enjoyed.
If you’re hosting a big gathering, Cantarito is also a great drink to make in batches. Multiply this recipe by however many you need. Prepare a few large pitchers and get that party started!
What makes a perfect Cantarito?
To make a truly memorable Cantarito, the key is fresh ingredients! No amount of bottled juices can compare to the freshness you get from squeezing the juice right out of the fruits. Fresh citrus brings a brightness to the drink that bottled juices simply can’t replicate.
Aside from that, the quality of tequila will also impact the flavours of the drink. A good tequila will make for a smooth, well-rounded drink, incorporating all the flavours nicely.
Finally, use a generous amount of grapefruit soda! The carbonation from the soda is what makes the drink fun and perfect for the summer.
Is Cantarito different from Margarita?
Both Cantarito and Margarita may have a tequila base, but these drinks offer distinctly different flavours.
Margarita is typically made with lime juice, with the tang complementing the tequila’s sharpness. On the other hand, Cantarito uses a mix of different citrus juices, creating its own sweetness. Unlike the Margarita, Cantarito also contains a grapefruit soda mixer for that sparkling twist, making it a refreshing drink during hot days.
The Cantarito is a drink worthy of a spot on your cocktail list. It’s refreshing, citrusy, and the perfect companion to warm weather. Not to mention, it’s a great hit at any social gathering! It’s time to try making your own Cantarito at home. For that quality tequila that will make your drink sure to shine, check out our selection at minuman.com or the minuman.com Superstore.
