Batanga Cocktail Recipe
Batanga Nutrition Facts
Calories:150
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:11g
Alcohol:14%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Batanga is a simple yet classic tequila-based cocktail that is said to have been invented in the 1960s by Don Javier Delgado Corona, owner of La Capilla bar in Tequila, Mexico. It's a favorite among those who appreciate the rustic charm of traditional Mexican cocktails.
- Originated in the town of Tequila, Jalisco
- Named after the popular Mexican music and dance style
- Gained popularity for its simplicity and refreshing taste
How Batanga Tastes?
The Batanga is a harmonious blend of sweet and sour with a robust tequila backbone. The salt rim adds a savory touch that balances the sweetness of the cola and the tartness of the lime.
Interesting facts about Batanga
- The Batanga is often stirred with the same knife used to cut the limes, adding to its rustic authenticity.
- Don Javier Delgado Corona was known for his strict rule of only using Mexican cola for the authentic Batanga.
- La Capilla, the birthplace of the Batanga, is one of the oldest and most famous bars in Tequila, Mexico.
Ingredients
Tequila
Good old tequila is the soul of a Batanga—it brings warmth, character, and that unmistakable earthy flavor. Using 1.35 oz is a balanced choice; not too much to overpower, not too little to go unnoticed. Forget the tequila, and you're left with an average lime cola. If tequila's not your thing, try a milder spirit like white rum, but remember, it's not a Batanga without tequila!
Mary Mitkina
Lime Juice
Lime juice is the zesty friend who livens up the party, offering a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cola. At 0.67 oz, it's just enough to make its presence known without stealing the show. If you skimp on it, the cocktail may become too tame; too much, and you might pucker at the imbalance. No lime? Try lemon, though the flavor profile will shift to a brighter, sunnier citrus note.
Alex Green
Coca Cola
Coca Cola fills the cocktail with bubbly excitement and sweet, dark complexity. It binds the tequila and lime in a delicious dance of flavors. Without it, well, it's not a Batanga—it's just tequila on the rocks with a twist of lime. If you want a different kind of sweet, try a cola made with real sugar for a throwback taste or even a diet version, but the flavor profile will skew.
Emma Rose
Salt
Salt on the rim isn’t just for looks; it's a flavor enhancer. It heightens the taste of the cocktail and complements the tang of lime. Without a salted rim, the Batanga loses a layer of complexity. If salt's not on hand, a sugar rim could work for a sweeter take, though it would be a leap from tradition—sometimes a leap is worth it!
Mary Mitkina
Ice
Cubed ice is the unsung hero of chill. It keeps the Batanga cool and diluted just right, melding flavors smoothly as it melts. Without ice, you're in for a lukewarm, over-concentrated drink—no thanks! Crushed ice could make a frostier experience, but it would dilute the cocktail quicker, so sip fast if you're going that route.
Alex Green
Recipe. How to make Batanga Drink
- Rim a highball glass with salt using lime juice to help it adhere.
- Fill the glass with cubed ice.
- Pour in 1.35 oz of tequila over the ice.
- Add 0.67 oz of fresh lime juice.
- Top up with Coca-Cola.
- Stir gently and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality, 100% agave tequila for the best flavor.
- Always use fresh lime juice for a brighter, more authentic taste.
- Chill the glass beforehand to keep your Batanga colder for longer.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Barbecue: The smoky flavors of grilled meats marry well with the earthiness of tequila in the Batanga.
- Tacos and Nachos: Complement the spice and zest of street-style Mexican fare with the refreshing citrus of the cocktail.
- Dark Chocolate: A piece of dark chocolate can be surprising but delightful alongside the Batanga, picking up on the deeper notes of the cola and the tequila.
Drink Pairings
- Coffee: Savored after the cocktail, a nice espresso can emphasize the deep flavors from the Batanga.
- Sparkling Water: For a palate cleanser between sips, sparkling water is perfect and keeps the taste buds refreshed.
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What you could change in Batanga
- Tequila: Any 100% agave blanco tequila can be used. Popular brands include Patrón, Don Julio, and Espolòn.
- Coca-Cola: While Mexican cola is traditional, any cola can be used. For a diet version, use Coke Zero or Diet Coke.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.
Explore all drinks starting with B here
And of course - twists🍹
Smoky Batanga
Ingredients: Tequila (1.35 oz), Fresh Lime Juice (0.67 oz), Smoked Cola (To fill), Salt and Smoked Paprika (For rim), Ice Cubes Recipe: Start by mixing equal parts of salt and smoked paprika to rim the glass. Pour in the tequila and lime juice, then top with a homemade smoked cola. The smokiness adds a campfire twist, ideal for outdoor gatherings or to simply intrigue your taste buds.
Spicy Batanga
Ingredients: Tequila (1.35 oz), Fresh Lime Juice (0.67 oz), Cola (To fill), Spicy Salt (For rim), Ice Cubes, Sliced Jalapeños Recipe: Spice up the salt rim with a bit of chili powder. Add sliced jalapeños into the glass before you pour in the tequila and lime juice. The spicy kick will make you feel like you're at a fiesta, taking the classic Batanga to bold new heights.
Herbal Batanga
Ingredients: Tequila (1.35 oz), Fresh Lime Juice (0.67 oz), Herbal Infused Cola (To fill), Salt (For rim), Ice Cubes, Fresh Herbs (like basil or thyme) Recipe: Infuse your cola with fresh herbs like thyme or basil by letting the herbs sit in the cola for a few hours. Strain, then use this herb-infused cola in your Batanga. This botanical twist introduces an aromatic garden into your glass, perfect for a refreshing summer evening drink.
In case you forgot basics how to make Batanga
Insert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Batanga
What glassware is ideal for serving a Batanga?
A Batanga is traditionally served in a highball glass, which allows plenty of room for ice and for the carbonation of the cola to mingle with the other ingredients.
Can I make a pitcher of Batanga for a party?
Yes, you can scale up the Batanga recipe for a party. Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix in a large pitcher. Remember to add ice to individual glasses rather than the pitcher to prevent dilution.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of the Batanga?
You can make a mocktail version of the Batanga by replacing the tequila with non-alcoholic tequila alternatives or by simply omitting the alcohol entirely, focusing on the lime and cola flavors.
What is the difference between Blanco Tequila and other types of tequila?
Blanco tequila, also known as silver tequila, is a type of tequila that is typically unaged and bottled immediately after distillation. It has a pure, clear appearance and a crisp agave flavor, making it ideal for cocktails like the Batanga.
How do I know if my tequila is 100% agave?
Check the label on the bottle of tequila. If it states '100% de agave' or '100% agave', it indicates that it's made purely from the agave plant without added sugars.
Can I substitute the lime juice with another citrus fruit?
While lime juice is traditional to the Batanga for its distinct tartness, in a pinch, you can use other citrus juices like lemon. However, the flavor profile will be slightly different.
How important is the salt rim for this cocktail?
The salt rim plays a significant role in the Batanga by enhancing the cocktail's flavors and adding a textural component. However, it can be omitted for those wanting a simpler or lower-sodium drink.
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