Mayahuel Cocktail Recipe
Mayahuel Nutrition Facts
Calories:~200
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:~10g
Alcohol:~20%
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 Mayahuel cocktail is named after the Aztec goddess of agave and fertility, Mayahuel. This drink is a celebration of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit that has been gaining popularity worldwide.
- Origins: The cocktail is a relatively recent creation, designed to showcase the smoky flavor of mezcal.
- Popularity: It's particularly favored by those who appreciate the depth of mezcal and the culture surrounding it.
- Occasions: Perfect for a sophisticated evening or a cultural event.
How Mayahuel Tastes?
The Mayahuel cocktail offers a smoky and complex flavor profile with a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and earthy notes. The espadin mezcal provides a robust base, while the triple sec adds a citrusy sweetness. Fresh lime juice brings a zesty tartness, and the raw agave nectar rounds it out with a subtle sweetness.
Interesting facts about Mayahuel
- Mezcal: Unlike tequila, mezcal can be made from over 30 types of agave and is known for its smoky flavor.
- Sal de Gusano: This traditional Oaxacan condiment is made from ground agave worms, salt, and chili peppers.
- Cultural Symbol: Mayahuel is not just a cocktail; it's a nod to the rich heritage of Mexican spirits and mythology.
Ingredients
- Espadin mezcal: 1.5 oz(45ml)
- Triple sec: 0.75 oz(23ml)
- Lime juice: 0.75 oz(23ml)
- Raw agave nectar: 0.25 oz(8ml)
- Sal de gusano: Garnish
Espadin Mezcal
Why 1.5 oz? Just enough to let its smoky whispers command the stage without overpowering the ensemble. It's like the lead singer in a band—too quiet and the song falls flat, too loud and the melody's lost. Without it? No smoke on the water, no fire in the sky—you’d miss out on the soul of Mayahuel.
Emma Rose
Triple Sec
This zesty liqueur brings the sweet melodies of citrus to play along with our smoky friend. At 0.75 oz, it’s the perfect backup singer that complements without stealing the show. Go sans Triple Sec, and you’ll have a cocktail that’s missing its harmonic high notes.
Mary Mitkina
Lime Juice
Freshly squeezed at 0.75 oz because synthetic lime is to cocktails what lip-syncing is to live concerts—an absolute no-go. Lime brings a tangy zing that keeps the palate clean and interested.
Alex Green
Raw Agave Nectar
0.25 oz strikes the balance between sweet and heat. It's the spoonful of sugar that helps the mezcal go down—smoothly. Without it, you may find Mayahuel a touch too tart.
Emma Rose
Sal de Gusano
A garnish that's more than just a pretty face. A rim of sal de gusano introduces a savory umami kick which sets this cocktail apart. Skip it, and you lose that unique earthy note that says 'Hola' from the first sip.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Mayahuel Drink
- Rim a coupe glass with sal de gusano.
- Add 1.5 oz of espadin mezcal, 0.75 oz of triple sec, 0.75 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice, and 0.25 oz of raw agave nectar to a shaker filled with ice.
- Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Strain into the prepared coupe glass.
Pro Tips
- Chill the Glass: Before preparing the cocktail, chill the coupe glass to keep the drink colder for longer.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
- Agave Nectar: Adjust the amount of agave nectar to taste, especially if you prefer a less sweet cocktail.
Perfect Pairings
Grilled Seafood
A Mayahuel pairs beautifully with grilled seafood such as shrimp or fish, where the smoky flavors of the mezcal accentuate the char from the grill.
Spicy Dishes
Spicy Mexican dishes, like tacos al pastor or enchiladas, harmonize with the cocktail’s citrus and sweet notes, providing a refreshing balance to the heat.
Citrusy Salads
Light, citrus-based salads with ingredients like orange segments or grapefruit create a nice contrast while echoing the lime juice in the cocktail.
Dark Chocolate
For dessert, a piece of dark chocolate can complement the deeper notes of the mezcal and the slight bitterness of the sal de gusano garnish.
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What you could change in Mayahuel
- Mezcal: If espadin mezcal is not available, any other type of mezcal can be used, although the flavor profile may change.
- Triple Sec: Cointreau or any other high-quality orange liqueur can be substituted for triple sec.
- Sal de Gusano: If unavailable, a mix of sea salt and chili powder can be used as a substitute for the rim.
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And of course - twists🍹
Mayahuel con Tamarindo
- Substitute lime juice with fresh tamarindo pulp. This twist adds a sweet and sour complexity that entices with every tangy sip. Expect a more tropical and exotic Mayahuel.
Smokin' Berries
- Add a handful of fresh blackberries to the shaker before muddling. It will transform Mayahuel into a fruity fiesta with a smoky berry undertone and a rich purple hue.
Herb Garden Mayahuel
- Muddle a few fresh basil leaves in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. This botanical twist will give your cocktail an aromatic flair, conjuring a herbaceous embrace with each sip.
In case you forgot basics how to make Mayahuel
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
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Frequently Asked Questions on Mayahuel
What kind of glass is best suited for serving the Mayahuel cocktail?
The Mayahuel cocktail is typically served in a coupe glass, which allows the aromas to concentrate and enhances the sipping experience.
Can I use simple syrup instead of raw agave nectar in the Mayahuel cocktail?
While raw agave nectar is recommended to maintain authenticity, simple syrup can be used as a sweetener alternative if agave nectar is not available.
What does 'sal de gusano' consist of, and how does it enhance the cocktail?
Sal de gusano is a Mexican condiment made of sea salt, chili peppers, and ground agave worms. It adds a savory, salty, and slightly spicy kick, complementing the smokiness of the mezcal.
How can I achieve a proper balance when mixing the Mayahuel cocktail?
To achieve the right balance, measure the ingredients accurately, ensure the freshness of the lime juice, and adjust the sweetness with the agave nectar to your preference.
Is there an ideal time of year to enjoy the Mayahuel cocktail?
The Mayahuel cocktail can be enjoyed year-round but may be particularly refreshing during the summer months or in warmer climates due to its citrusy and earthy notes.
How should I store mezcal to preserve its quality and flavor?
Mezcal should be stored upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and dramatic temperature changes to maintain its quality and smoky essence.
What is the cultural significance of mezcal in Mexico?
Mezcal holds deep cultural significance in Mexico as a traditional spirit that is often produced in small batches using age-old methods, and it's integral to social and ceremonial occasions.
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