THE MICHELADA: MEXICO'S FAVORITE DRINK
When it comes to flavor, Mexico has a "go big or go home" philosophy. American food seems bland by comparison as Mexicans drown their cuisine in chiles and salsas. But here south of the border, it's not just the food that's packed with a punch: the beer will also have your taste buds tingling. Here, a simple beer just isn't enough, so many Riviera Maya bars serve what's known as a "michelada". The name comes from the phrase "mi chela helada", meaning "my ice cold beer".
The main ingredient is the beer, of course, but the trick is to add in some of the most powerful flavors that Mexico loves to use. A classic michelada has lime and salt, plus Worcestershire or Maggi sauce. Most places sell it in a large serving (often a 1-liter styrofoam cup!) to fit in all the ingredients, usually with plenty of ice and a straw... a big no-no back in the States, but perfectly acceptable here in Mexico. For an added kick, line the rim of the glass in salt.
For many Riviera Maya locals, even the lime, salt and Worcestershire sauce aren't enough to keep them interested. Many bars now also sell micheladas with a twist, adding in spicier ingredients like tabasco sauce, peppers, clamato and Mexico's much-loved chile powder. You can even find recipes with olives or sweet chile-flavored candies for an even more unique experience.
If you're feeling especially adventurous, search out a venue that even puts its bar snacks inside the beer! In Playa del Carmen and beyond, it's not hard to find a michelada with a stick of chamoy (a Mexican condiment made from fruit and spices)...
...or even with a few shrimp thrown in there! Why not?
Many Americans believe that Corona is the drink of choice down here by the beach, but the real drink for a Mexican vacation is the michelada.