Mezcal Fresca Recipes

In this mezcal-laced take on an agua fresca, the sweet-tart hibiscus syrup and warm allspice dram act in tandem to add layers of flavor and texture while softening mezcal's inherent smokiness. The mix of grapefruit and lime lends the drink acidity without tipping it acerbic. Because mezcal ranges in flavor, complexity and smoky bite, taste a few and choose one that suits your preferences. And, if you also happen to have sal de gusano - a traditional accompaniment to mezcal made from toasted, ground gusano (the moth larvae that feeds on the agave plant), salt and dried chiles - you can rim your cocktail glass with it. To do so, run the cut side of a grapefruit or lime along the rim and dip the rim in the salt mixture before shaking and pouring your drink.

Provided by Rebekah Peppler

Categories     cocktails

Yield 1 drink

Number Of Ingredients 10

• Ingredients

The spirit base of this margarita is split between tequila and mezcal, which gives the final drink a deep, complex flavor, and provides an excellent excuse to rim the glass with sal de gusano, or worm salt. With roots in Oaxaca, Mexico, sal de gusano is made from toasted, ground gusano (the moth larvae that feeds on the agave plant), salt and dried chiles, and is traditionally served alongside mezcal. If you're running low on tequila or mezcal, feel free to use 1 1/2 ounces total of whichever agave-based spirit you have.

Provided by Rebekah Peppler

Categories     cocktails

Yield 1 drink

Number Of Ingredients 8

• Ingredients