Cantaritos

Cantaritos are a refreshing and vibrant Mexican cocktail, similar to the Paloma but more complex. This Mexican drink combines tequila, freshly squeezed citrus juices (orange, lemon, grapefruit, and lime), and a spritz of grapefruit soda, all served in a traditional clay mug (jarrito de barro).

With a salted rim and garnished with citrus wedges, Cantaritos offer a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy and salty flavors, transporting your taste buds straight to a sun-kissed paradise.

Other Mexican drinks: Michelada, Mexican Mule, Mexican Candy Shot and Corona Sunrise.

This cantaritos recipe only requires a few simple ingredients:

• tequila your favorite brand
• grapefruit soda – Try out the different brands to see which one you like the most.
• fruit – Fresh grapefruit, orange, lemon and lime juices.

Cantarito drink recipe

Making it involves mixing the tequila and citrus juices together, then topping with grapefruit soda and a pinch of salt.

Best tequila

Use what you have on hand as long as it’s not a low shelf brand. These leave a terrible aftertaste that you’ll want to avoid at all costs. Our favorite tequila brands: 1800, Lobos 1707 Tequila and Don Julio.

We personally use silver tequila, as is tradition in making Cantaritos drinks, but everyone has their own.

grapefruit soda

There are a few brands of grapefruit soda to choose from. The most popular brand is Squirt, but any brand will work. A classic Grapefruit flavored Jarrito’s is our top pick. Jarrito’s is also made in Jalisco, where this Mexican drink was invented.

A new brand we love is Polar Mixers; Their 50/50 mix of grapefruit and lemon juice is a great option.

Garnish ideas

Who doesn’t love a good cocktail garnish? Here are a few ideas:

• Chamoy edge
• Tajín edge
• salt or sugar rim
• citrus slices
• jalapeño slices
• Fresh mint leaves

Drinking tips

• Don’t substitute more grapefruit juice for the grapefruit soda. Flavor and texture will be affected.
• Refrigerate the grapefruit soda before using to ensure an ice cold drink.

variations

Here’s how to mix this Cantaritos drink if you’re looking for an extra touch of flavor.

Super sweet – Add 1 tablespoon of simple syrup to sweeten. The original drink has no added sugars, which changes the balance.

Sharp – mix some jalapeños into the bottom of the cantaritos before adding liquid.

party punch – Scale up and make a “party punch”. Place tequila and fruit juices in a large pitcher and stir. When ready to serve, add salt and grapefruit soda. Since grapefruit soda is carbonated, it will flatten out if added early.

when to serve

Enjoy an ice-cold Cantaritos drink when the sun is out and you’re in the mood. Cantaritos serve at:

• Cinco de Mayo
• Quinceañera (for those over 21 years old)
• festivals
• Taco Tuesday
• Sunday brunch
• birthday parties

Cantaritos Cups

The history of the cantaritos dates back to the early 20th century in the state of Jalisco. The drink is traditionally served in clay mugs (jarrito de barro in Spanish, meaning “little jugs”), which are believed to enhance its flavor while keeping it cool.

We bought this set from Amazon and love it. Perfect for customizing if you love to paint!

If you don’t have cantaritos or you have the cash to spend, a highball glass is a great option.

Heal the clay cups

If you use uncured clay mugs, it is recommended to soak them in cold water before use to avoid sweating. Essentially, the water “heals” the cup. Just make sure the entire cup is submerged.

Jarrito de Barro used

Aside from using these clay cups for Cantaritos cocktails, there are a few other ways to enjoy these unique cups:

1. Bloody Mary or Bloody Caesar
2. Agua Fresca
3. water with fruit
4. Planters for the garden
5. Decorative pottery
6. Kitchen utensil holder
7. Serving platter for snacks