Are you looking for a new cocktail to add some flavor to your summer brunches?
Look no further than the Clamato Michelada, the perfect combination of savory and spicy.
In this classic clamato michelada, I’ll cover all the ingredients needed and give you step-by-step instructions on making an authentic Clamato Michelada, including making your own homemade Clamato juice.
So, grab some beer, and let’s get started!
What is a Clamato Michelada?
A Clamato Michelada is a popular drink in many parts of the world, particularly in Mexico. It’s a beer cocktail made with Clamato® juice, a blend of tomato juice and clam broth, which gives the drink a unique savory flavor. Other key ingredients include lime juice, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, and hot sauce. The rim of the glass is often coated with salt or a mixture of salt and chili powder to add some extra flavor.
How to make an authentic Clamato Michelada Recipe?
Clamato Michelada
Equipment
- A tall glass: A pint glass or a large beer mug is commonly used for Micheladas.
- A spoon or stirrer: For mixing the ingredients together.
- A juicer (optional): To extract the juice from the limes. If you don’t have a juicer, you can squeeze the limes by hand.
- A small plate: To mix the salt and chili powder for rimming the glass.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of Clamato juice
- 1 12 oz bottle of your favorite Mexican beer like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico
- 2 oz fresh lime juice about 2 limes
- 1-2 dashes of hot sauce like Tabasco, more or less to taste
- 1-2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
- 1-2 dashes of soy sauce
- Salt for rimming the glass
- Chili powder for rimming the glass
- Ice cubes
- Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare your glass: Mix some salt and chili powder on a plate. Run a lime wedge around the rim of your glass, then dip it into the salt-chili mixture to coat the rim.
- Add the Clamato juice to the glass.
- Add fresh lime juice.
- Add a dash or two each of hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Remember, you can adjust these to your taste.
- Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Fill the glass with ice.
- Pour the beer into the glass, being careful to not pour it directly onto the ice as this will cause the beer to foam up. You want the beer to mix with the other ingredients.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Serve and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- The beer you choose can greatly impact the taste of your Michelada. Typically, a light Mexican beer such as Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico is used. These beers complement the tomato and lime flavors without overpowering them.
- Feel free to tweak the amount of each ingredient to suit your preferences. For instance, if you prefer your Michelada spicier, add more hot sauce. If you enjoy a saltier drink, add a little extra soy or Worcestershire sauce.
- Rimming your glass with a salt-chili powder mix not only makes the drink look great, but also adds an extra flavor kick. Be sure to rim the glass before adding your ingredients.
- Add ice after combining your sauces and juices, but before pouring in the beer. This ensures the drink stays cold without causing excessive foaming from the beer.
- Stir the ingredients together gently to avoid making the beer foam up too much. You want the ingredients to mix without losing the carbonation of the beer.
- Traditionally, Micheladas are served in a tall, chilled glass. However, you can also use a large beer mug if you prefer. Just make sure the glass is large enough to hold all the ingredients and some ice.
- If you’re watching your caloric intake, you might consider using a light beer or reducing the Clamato juice.
Other common ingredients to try in a Clamato Michelada?
In addition to the key ingredients, other common ingredients used in a Michelada include:
- Chili powder
- Hot sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Lime juice
- Salt
- Ice
Add spice to your Clamato Michelada
If you prefer your cocktails on the spicier side, you can add some habanero pepper to your Michelada. Cut a small slice of pepper and rub it on the inside of the rim of the glass before dipping it in the salt and chili powder mixture. You can also add a skewer of spiced shrimp or a celery stick for extra flavor.
Where to Buy Clamato Juice?
Best Beers for a Clamato Michelada
Clamato Michelada FAQ
What is Clamato® juice?
Clamato® juice combines tomato juice and clam broth, invented in California in the 1960s. It has a unique savory flavor that makes it perfect for use in cocktails like the Clamato Michelada. If you can’t find Clamato® juice in your local grocery store, you can make your homemade version using the recipe below.
Should you serve it hot or cold?
A Clamato Michelada is typically served cold, although some prefer it at room temperature. It’s really up to personal preference.
What garnish options are there for a Clamato Michelada?
The most common garnish for a Clamato Michelada is a wedge of lime, but you can try many other options. Some people like to add olives or pickled vegetables to their drink, while others prefer a combination of seasonings like chili powder and Tajin.
Which hot sauce is the best for this cocktail?
The best hot sauce for a Clamato Michelada is up to personal taste. Some people prefer a milder hot sauce like Tapatio or Cholula, while others like a spicier option like habanero-based sauces.
What kind of beer should you use?
The type of beer for a Clamato Michelada is up to personal preference. Some people prefer a light beer, while others like a darker beer with a more robust flavor. You can use any beer you enjoy, but Mexican lagers like Modelo, Corona, or Pacifico are popular.
Conclusion
Clamato Michelada: The perfect beer cocktail for brunch
The Clamato Michelada is a refreshing and savory cocktail perfect for a hot summer day or a lazy weekend brunch. With its unique blend of Clamato® juice, hot sauce, and lime, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Whether you’re out grilling with friends or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, the Clamato Michelada is the perfect way to add spice to your day.
So, give the Clamato Michelada a chance next time you’re looking for a new cocktail to try!
