Perfect combinations: The best food pairings for tequila
Guest article: Tequila Dealer
For over 10 years now I have been writing as a blogger under Tequila Dealer about the
fascinating world of agave distillates, namely tequila and mezcal.
From the agave fields of Mexico to the modern cocktail bar: Tequila is more than just a
Drink, it is an experience, a craft, and a piece of Mexican culture. For
For me personally, Tequila is the most beautiful thing in the world and the most
underrated spirit of our time. Today I would like to introduce you to a culinary
Travel and show what makes a good tequila and how you
Tequila - whether Blanco, Reposado or Añejo - ideal with various dishes
you can combine.
Mexican cuisine: A journey through taste and
tradition
Mexican cuisine is one of the most diverse and flavorful in the world.
It combines traditional flavours, fresh ingredients and creative cooking techniques that
passed down through generations. The fresh, tangy aromas of the
Ceviche to the deep, earthy notes of a Mole Poblano, every region offers
Mexico's own unique dishes and flavor profiles. From Street
Food to gourmet restaurants – Mexico’s culinary landscape has
something to offer everyone.
Fascinating facts about Mexican cuisine
Elena Reygadas: Best Chef of the Year 2023
The Mexican Elena Reygadas, cook and owner of the restaurant “Rosetta”
in Mexico City, was named the best female chef in the British “50 Best” list.
of 2023. This is a remarkable achievement and underlines
the high quality of Mexican cuisine on an international level.
the top spot for the third time in a row went to a Latin American. Reygadas'
creative interpretations of traditional Mexican dishes and their dedication to
culinary excellence make her an outstanding personality in the
global gastronomy scene.
El Califa: Michelin star tacos
Another highlight of Mexican cuisine is the recognition of simple
Street food by renowned gourmet guides. A perfect example of this is
the Taquería El Califa de León in Mexico City. This modest street food stall,
located in the San Rafael district, has been in operation for over 70 years. Famous
for their Gaonera tacos, the taquería impressed the Michelin inspectors so much,
that it has been awarded a Michelin star. This shows that
great food is not always found in elegant restaurants, but also
in the humble corners of the city.
Mexican cuisine is more than just food – it is an experience that combines culture,
History and community united. Whether through the innovative dishes of a
Top chef like Elena Reygadas or the authentic flavors of a
traditional street food – the culinary diversity of Mexico invites everyone to
to discover rich and varied flavors. This diversity makes the
Mexican cuisine an ideal accompaniment to tequila, which itself is a
offers a remarkable range of flavors and complexity.
Talking Tequila
Tequila is a spirit made from the blue Weber agave, which
must grow for at least 6-8 years before it can be harvested. As
traditional Mexican drink, strict regulations apply to the production of tequila.
legal regulations. Tequila is only allowed in certain regions of Mexico
are produced, mainly in the state of Jalisco and in limited
Regions. These areas have the official designation "Denomination of Origin"
for tequila.
Good tequila is characterized by various features that indicate its quality
and taste experience. Tequila should be made from 100% blue Weber agave
Tequila labeled as "Mixto" contains only 51%
Agave and the rest may contain other types of sugar, which significantly
reduces.
A good tequila has a balanced aroma and taste, often with notes of
Agave, caramel, vanilla, citrus and spices. Traditional
Manufacturing processes such as the use of brick ovens to cook the
Agaves and slow fermentation also contribute to the quality.
Tequila is consumed worldwide neat or as a base for cocktails and drinks such as Margarita,
Tequila Sunrise, Batanga or Paloma. In Mexico, tequila is often drunk neat and
drunk in small sips. Tequila is an essential ingredient in
Mexican culture and gastronomy and is increasingly enjoying worldwide
recognition and popularity.
The best food pairings with tequila
Tequila Blanco
Tequila Blanco , also known as "Silver" or "Plata", is made after distillation
not matured and thus retains the pure taste of the agave. This young tequila
is fresh and lively, with notes of citrus and minerals.
Recommended dishes:
● Seafood: The fresh citrus notes of Tequila Blanco complement the
natural sweetness and saltiness of seafood. Try
Try prawns or ceviche – a real taste experience!
● Salads: A tangy salad with citrus dressing is enhanced by the lively
The aromas of the Blanco are highlighted. Ingredients such as
Avocado, mango and coriander.
● Guacamole: The creaminess of the avocado is enhanced by the freshness of the Blanco
enhanced, and the lime in the guacamole emphasizes the citrus notes of the
Tequilas – simply irresistible!
● Tacos de Camarones: shrimp tacos with a tangy lime dressing
harmonize perfectly with the lively aromas of the Blanco. A
a true feast for the senses!
Tequila Reposado
Tequila Reposado is aged between two months and one year in oak barrels
matured, giving it a light golden colour and a balanced taste
The maturation brings notes of vanilla, caramel and a mild spice
out.
Recommended dishes:
● Grilled meat: Juicy, grilled pieces of meat such as chicken or
Pork goes wonderfully with the caramel and vanilla notes of the
Reposado.
● Pasta with cream sauce: The creamy textures and rich flavors of pasta
in cream sauces complement the soft, woody notes of the Reposado.
● Carnitas: The juicy, slow-cooked pork pieces go well
wonderful with the caramel and vanilla notes of the Reposado.
● Chiles Rellenos: Stuffed peppers, often filled with cheese or meat,
benefit from the complexity and woody notes of the Reposado.
Tequila Añejo
Tequila Añejo matures for at least one year in small oak barrels, giving it a
deeper amber color and complex aromas of chocolate, coffee and
roasted nuts. This tequila is rich and full-bodied, ideal for
special occasions.
Recommended dishes:
● Steak: A well-aged steak, especially when grilled or fried,
harmonizes perfectly with the deep, rich aromas of the Añejo.
● Arrachera: Grilled steak often marinated with lime and
Garlic is enhanced by the depth and complexity of the Añejo
wonderfully complemented.
● Chocolate desserts: The complex, sweet notes of a
Chocolate mousse or chocolate cake go perfectly with the
deep, rich notes of an Añejo.
● Flan: This creamy, caramel dessert harmonizes perfectly with the vanilla
and caramel notes of the Añejo and brings its rich, sweet aromas
into effect.
Conclusion
Not all tequila is the same. Good tequila is not only for pure
Enjoyment is excellent; its variety and depth also make it a
ideal companion for a wide range of dishes. Whether you want a
refreshing Tequila Blanco, a balanced Tequila Reposado or a
rich Tequila Añejo, there is always a perfect culinary pairing that enriches your experience, especially through authentic Mexican cuisine.
Enjoy your meal and hello!
Your Tequila Dealer
www.tequiladealer.de
Photos: Many thanks to the great team at Casita Mexicana, Düsseldorf