Mezcal has become popular over the ages as a bold spirit. This Mexican liquor is something for the strong-hearted. Its spicy, smoky spirit packs a punch for those who want a drink with a sharp, pronounced taste. Its flavors are rich, and its versatility means you will have endless yummy drink possibilities. Along with mezcal’s rich flavor, its health benefits make it more likable.
Some Health Benefits of Mezcal
Here are some health benefits of mezcal which will make you understand why people consider it the best drink:
Antioxidant Properties
Mezcal is made from agave which contains antioxidants. The antioxidants can protect your body against inflammation and oxidative stress. Some research even shows that the compounds in mezcal may have anti-aging effects and help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Digestive Aid
Mezcal’s natural smoky flavor and high mineral content make it a possible digestive aid. It can help stimulate digestive enzymes and improve the absorption of nutrients in the body.
Stress relief
Mezcal contains compounds that let your body stay calm and relaxed. These can help reduce stress and anxiety levels, promoting a sense of well-being and relaxation.
Yummy Drink with Mezcal: 5 Recipes
You can easily buy mezcal online and use it in different drink recipes to expand your cocktail menu. Here are five drink recipes with mezcal that can tantalize tastebuds and urge anyone to go for another round.
Mezcal Margarita
The mezcal margarita is one of the best recipes you can try. You need to mix two ounces of mezcal, a single ounce of lime juice, and a half ounce of agave nectar in a shaker over ice. You may then rim your serving glass with salt before straining the cocktail into the glass to make it look more presentable. Garnishing your mezcal margarita with a lime wedge will give the final touch.
Mezcal Paloma
Mezcal Paloma is the next drink that is perfect for summer. You must combine two ounces of mezcal, three ounces of grapefruit juice, a single ounce of lime juice, and a half ounce of agave nectar in a shaker filled with ice. Mix it properly to meld the flavors and then strain the mixture into the drinking glass. It will be better if you top it with soda water and decorate your glass with a grapefruit slice.
Spicy Mezcal Sour
The spicy mezcal sour is a unique and flavorful cocktail with a kick. Mix two ounces of mezcal, a single ounce of lime juice, half an ounce of honey syrup, and a half ounce of jalapeño-infused syrup in a shaker prefilled with ice. You must then add egg white and shake it until frothy. You can then garnish the strained mixture with a dash of Angostura bitters.
Mezcal Manhattan
Mezcal Manhattan has a smoky and complex flavor. If you want to try making this drink, combine two ounces of mezcal, a single ounce of sweet vermouth, and two dashes of Angostura bitters in a mixing glass with ice. You must then mix it until the flavors meld well in the chilled drink then strain it into a glass and top it with a cherry.
Mezcal Negroni
If you’re a fan of the classic Negroni cocktail, you can try this mezcal version. In a mixing glass with ice, combine a single ounce of mezcal, an ounce of Campari, and a single ounce of sweet vermouth. Then mix it well to make it chilled and strain it in an ice-filled glass. Garnishing your Mezcal Negroni with an orange peel will be the final step.
Food Pairings with Mezcal
If you are throwing a cocktail party, these drink recipes alone won’t be enough, and you will need some foods to pair with mezcal drinks. Here are some food pairings which go well with mezcal:
Tomato Salad
A refreshing tomato salad can be a perfect snack to balance out the smoky taste of mezcal. Chop up some fresh tomatoes, red onions, and cilantro. Mix it with lime juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. The acidity of the tomatoes and lime will balance the smokiness of the mezcal.
Chicken Siu Mai
Chicken Siu Mai are steamed dumplings that are a popular snack in many Asian cuisines. Mix ground chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and ginger. Fill wonton wrappers with the chicken mixture and steam until cooked through. Serve it with soy sauce or chili oil along with a glass of smoky mezcal.
Pork Gyoza
Pork Gyoza is another type of steamed dumpling that can be a delicious snack to enjoy with mezcal. Mix ground pork with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and green onions. Fill gyoza wrappers with the pork mixture and pan-fry until crispy on the bottom. Add water to the pan and cover to steam until cooked through. Serve it with soy sauce or chili oil. The umami flavors of the pork and the crispy texture of the gyoza will balance the smokiness of the mezcal.
Conclusion
All that can add a new life to any cocktail party, so to summarize, mezcal cocktails take over other cocktails often. Its health benefits and rich taste make it the life of the party. If you know the right recipes and food pairings like the ones mentioned above, you can easily throw an amazing cocktail party.
