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Chelada

A chelada is Mexico's perfect thirst quencher, combining ice-cold beer with zesty citrus, savory spices, and a touch of hot sauce. This refreshing beverage takes just five minutes to pull together and delivers maximum flavor with zero fuss, perfect for hot days or gatherings.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings: 1 drink
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 bottle 12 ounces light lager or Mexican beer, chilled
  • Juice of 1/2 fresh lime about 0.5 ounces
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder preferably Tajín or chamoy powder
  • 2 dashes hot sauce such as Tabasco or Valentina
  • 1/4 teaspoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce optional
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wedge for garnish and rimming

Equipment

  • 12-ounce beer glass or tall glass
  • Small shallow dish or plate
  • Knife for cutting lime
  • Cocktail spoon or bar spoon

Method
 

  1. Place your beer glass in the freezer for at least five minutes before you start, or fill it with ice while you prepare the rim.
  2. Pour chili powder (Tajín is ideal) onto a small shallow dish. Rub the cut side of your lime wedge around the entire top rim of the glass, making sure the rim is moist but not dripping wet.
  3. Press the moistened rim gently into the chili powder, rotating the glass slowly to coat evenly all the way around.
  4. Add ice cubes to the rimmed glass until it's about three-quarters full.
  5. Squeeze the juice from your lime wedge directly into the glass, catching any seeds with your finger or a small strainer.
  6. Add two to three dashes of your hot sauce and the optional soy or Worcestershire sauce if you're using it.
  7. Open your cold beer bottle and pour it slowly down the side of the tilted glass to minimize foam. Pour until the glass is nearly full, leaving about half an inch of headroom.
  8. Give the drink a gentle stir with a bar spoon to blend the flavors throughout. Take a sip and adjust the heat or tang to your liking by adding more hot sauce or lime juice if needed.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Serve your chelada immediately after making it; the longer it sits, the more the ice melts and the more diluted your drink becomes. Use fresh lime juice whenever possible for the best flavor. Chill everything ahead of time for the coldest drink.