Chelada (Mexican Beer Cocktail)

A Chelada is a classic Mexican beer cocktail that comes right from the heart of Mexico City. 

Don’t confuse this with Michelada, that’s a spicy tomato-based beer drink. Whereas this drink is not spicy.

Instead, imagine an easy cocktail with a laid-back twist.

Whether you’re enjoying it at your Cinco de Mayo feast or for happy hour, this light beer cocktail is a joy.

Instructions

• Beer
• Ripe Lime
• Salt

A can or bottle of authentic Mexican beer is needed.

We’re going for Corona, but feel free to use Modelo Especial, Bud light, or any other cerveza clara (light beer).

However, a dark lager is not recommended.

Instructions

• Cut your lime in half.
• Use one lime wedge half to rub around the rim of your glass.

Lime will act as a ‘glue’ for the salt.

The first step, however, is to frost up a Collins glass (the taller, the better for a chilled drink!). Put the glass in the fridge way before you get started.

• Use the lime to rub around the rim, creating a sticky surface for our favorite rim ingredient – salt.
• Dip the glass in plain salt or sea salt for extra texture.
• Give it a good twist for a well-coated, salted rim. 

Pour some salt onto a shallow dish. The next fun step is to dip the rim of your glass into the salt.

The salted rim doesn’t just elevate your presentation but also enhances your refreshing beer cocktail’s flavor profile.

• Dip the rim of your glass into the salt.
• Turn as needed until it’s fully coated. 

The salt not only adds flavor but also gives your cocktail a beautiful, professional-looking finish!

To add a little spice, dip the rim in chamoy or Tajin instead. Or to make it sweeter, and use sugar instead.

• Now, fill your salt-rimmed glass with a generous amount of ice cubes.
• Squeeze fresh lime juice into the glass.
• Add a pinch of salt (a little salt goes a long way), stirring it well to combined.

The sour flavors of the lime-infused beer are a delicious counter to the salt rim, making your thirst quencher a balanced delight. Adjust the amount of lime juice according to personal preference.

In Mexico, we say, “Mi chela helada,” which translates to, “my cold beer,” and we really mean it! These three words later evolved into “michelada,” the spicy tomato juice drink.

• Now, the best part – pour in your favorite beer.  
• Mix to combine.
• Make sure you stir it well to distribute that tangy lime and savory salt throughout the beer.

Remember, cold beer is an absolute necessity.

Pro Tips:

• For a spicier kick, instead of salt, use Tajin, or chili powder, to coat the rim of the glass. You might just love this spicy twist.
• This refreshing cocktail tastes best when served immediately, but you can keep it chilled in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours. Just know that it won’t be as fizzy.
• If making for a party, prepare the glasses ahead of time and stick them in the fridge.

• Serve immediately and enjoy!
• This heavenly drink is best enjoyed fresh and cold.

At some Mexican restaurants, this is known as Cerveza Preparada with a classic lime-and-salt (limón y sal) combination.

A basic chelada is one of the easiest cocktails – lime, salt, and beer – that’s it!

Pairing Suggestions

Pair your creation with some tacos de camaron or mulitas for a perfect Mexican-themed meal.

More Mexican Cocktails:

• Spicy Pineapple Margarita
• Strawberry Jalapeno Margarita
• Skinny Orange Margarita
• Spicy Mango Margarita

This easy Chelada recipe is a testament to the Mexican people’s love for flavor-packed simplicity.

It delivers an authentic Mexican beer cocktail experience right in your home. Easy to prepare and refreshingly delicious, this drink is a perfect summer companion. 

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