Get into the spirit of Cinco de Mayo
The fifth of May doesn’t quite have the ring of Cinco de Mayo.
The date is marked in Mexico to commemorate the Mexican Army ’s victory over Napoleon III’s French forces during the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While celebrations are mostly seen in the city of Puebla, southeast of Mexico City, there’s no reason Canadians can’t join in the fun.
Consider a few Mexican inspired recipes, such as tortilla soup, chalupas or mole poblano. But don’t stop there. There are a number of Cinco de Mayo cocktails that will help get the party started. Here are a couple to try.
PINEAPPLE CILANTRO MARGARITA
2 oz. Casamigos Reposado or your favourite tequila
1 oz. pineapple juice
½ oz. fresh lime juice
½ oz. Simple Syrup 8-10 cilantro leaves optional ½ thick rim sugar, cilantro salt (equal parts)
Method: Combine all ingredients into a shaker and add ice. Shake vigorously for 8-10 seconds then strain into rocks glass and add fresh ice. Garnish with two pineapple leaves.
CASA WATERMELON PUNCH
1 litre Casamigos Blanco or your favourite tequila
17 oz fresh watermelon juice 17n oz. fresh lime juice
10 oz. Simple Syrup
34 dashes orange bitters Method: Combine ingredients into a punch bowl. Stir in 3-4 scoops of medium block ice to fill in and cool. Garnish with watermelon triangle with rind and poke mint springs through the top. Stir before each serving.