This is a fun twist on a classic michelada recipe called, chelada! This beer cocktail is made with Modelo beer, lime juice, and Worcestershire sauce, and has a savory flavor that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want something different to drink, this Chelada recipe is definitely worth trying!
I love how easy a Chelada is to make. My husband orders these often and being a Bloody Mary fan myself, I really enjoy the savory flavors in this drink. The overall flavor is beer flavor, but with added spices and a lot of lime! It’s one of these easiest cocktails you can make too.
What is a Chelada?
A Chelada is short for Michelada, which is a Mexican beer cocktail that is traditionally made with beer, lime juice, and spices. It’s can be made in several ways using soy sauce, tomato juice, or Worcestershire sauce. I’ve had this drink a few ways and this recipe is by far our favorite. It combines a little from the traditional cocktail and the modern one.
This recipe does not use tomato juice. It’s perfect without it and has a delicious, refreshing, and savory flavor. However, for us, the added tajin rim is a must! Again, this is not traditional, and a salt rim has more history with this drink, but we swear it adds so much flavor to give it a delicious, sticky tajin rim!
Modelo Chelada
Modelo beer is a Mexican pilsner-style lager that was first brewed in 1925. It’s now one of the most popular beers in Mexico and is available in many parts of the world. Modelo beer has a light, crisp flavor that makes it perfect for drinking on its own or in a cocktail. I always keep Modelo stocked in our house!
Ingredients in a Michelada
Modelo Beer – We use Modelo because it’s an authentic Mexican beer. You can also use Pacifico too. Any Mexican lager will work. To make a Modelo Chelada, you have to use Modelo beer!
Lime Juice – Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor. We usually do 1 1/2 limes per drink. You can add less or more amount of lime juice.
Worcestershire Sauce – A savory sauce that is made with ingredients such as molasses, vinegar, anchovies, garlic, and other spices. Just a few dashes add a lot of flavors.
Tajin Seasoning – Tajin seasoning is a Mexican condiment that is made with chili peppers, lime, and salt. It’s often used to rim cocktails and can be found at most grocery stores.
Chamoy – A sticky, sweet, and sour condiment that is perfect for rimming glasses. This is optional, but we really love the flavor it adds to the drink.
Chelada Variations
If you want to try a different variation of this Modelo Chelada recipe, here are a few ideas:
Use your favorite beer – If you’re not a fan of Modelo, feel free to use your favorite beer instead. Just make sure it’s a light-colored beer so that the lime juice really stands out.
Add a little spice – If you want to add a little spice to your Chelada, try rimming your glass with Tajin or adding a dash of hot sauce.
Use tomato juice – If you prefer, you can add tomato juice. We recommend adding about 4 ounces tomato juice and 8 ounces beer. You can also use clamato juice.
Tips for Making a Chelada
Here are some tips for making the best chelada!
- Add a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicey Chelada.
- We prefer using Chamoy sauce to rim the glass. It adds even more flavor and is super sticky for the tajin to stick to. You can also use the wedge of lime too. If you don’t want Tajin, try a salty rim.
- Tajin seasoning can be found in the Hispanic aisle at most grocery stores.
- Modelo Especial is a great beer, but Corona, Pacifico, or any light beer will work.
- If you want a salt rim, just omit the Chamoy and Tajin and use kosher or sea salt.
- Adding ice to the glass is optional, especially if you’re pouring a nice cold beer. However, I like to add ice as it makes the drink super cold and smooth.
Michelada Garnishes
I like to garnish the drink with a dehydrated lime wedge and a dash of Tajin. Here are some more options:
- Beer Salts
- Lime or Lemon Wedge
- Chili Pepper
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Chelada stand for?
Chelada is short for Michelada, which is a Mexican beer cocktail that is traditionally made with beer, lime juice, and spices.
What beer makes the best michelada?
We prefer using Modelo Especial but Corona, Pacifico, or any light beer will work.
Are Micheladas healthy?
The main ingredient in a Michelada is beer. Beer can have some health benefits, but it is also high in calories and carbohydrates. Some micheladas also often contain tomato juice, which is a good source of vitamins A and C.
What is chamoy sauce made of?
Chamoy sauce is a Mexican condiment made from pickled fruit, chili peppers, and salt. It’s sweet, sour, and slightly spicy all at the same time. Chamoy sauce is often used to rim cocktails, like this Chelada recipe.
Can I make a Chelada without Chamoy?
Yes, you can make a Chelada without Chamoy. If you want a salt rim, just omit the Chamoy and Tajin and use kosher or sea salt.
More Mexican-Style Drinks
If you love cocktails with a Mexican twist and tequila, here are a few more cocktail recipes to try!
I hope you love this chelada beer cocktail as much as we do! Let us know if you make it by leaving a comment and review below!
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Michelada Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Modelo beer
- 2 ounces lime juice, about 1 1/2 limes fresh squeezed
- 3/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce, a few dashes
- Tajin
- Chamoy
Instructions
- The first step is to rim the glass. Rimming glass with Chamoy Mexican Rim Candy Dip works so well and adds so much flavor.
- Then, dip the sticky rim into Tajin seasoning.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice into the glass.
- Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Give it a stir and then fill it with ice cubes.
- Pour a cold Modelo beer over the ice.
- Garnish with a lime wedge.
