Day of the Dead: Celebrate the Mexican festival with these quirky Margarita cocktails

Dia de los Muertos - meaning Day of the Dead in Spanish - is an annual Mexican holiday to honour and pay respect to the deceased loved ones. Although it originated in Mexico, it is widely celebrated across America. Global interest in the festival piqued after a Day of the Dead parade with thousands dressed in themed costumes in Mexico City was featured in the James Bond film Spectre (2015).

The multi-day period isn't one of mourning, but of joyful festivity, and the local traditions may vary from town to town but what remains common is the gathering of family and friends, and indulging in traditional food. To help you partake in the Mexican revelry, we've asked mixologists across India to share their takes on arguably one of Mexico's hottest global exports - the iconic Margarita. If you're a fan of the citrusy cocktail, and love experimenting with flavours, here are some recipes that will keep you satiated.

Jalapeno Margarita by Ritesh Chaudhary, bar manager, Yazu, Goa

For those seeking a tangy and spicy kick, the Jalapeno Margarita is a refreshing option. Photo credits/Yazu

A classic ingredient in Mexican gastronomy - the jalapeno - is suited to the Indian palate with its sharp and spicy flavour. "Made with tequila, fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and a sassy slice of jalapeno, this kicked-up version of a classic margarita will transport you to a sunny place," shares Chaudhary.

Ingredients:
Tequila 60 ml
Lime juice 20 ml
Triple sec 15 ml
Jalapeno water 15 ml
Jalapeno 4-5 pc

Method:
Add the jalapenos to the shaker and muddle them.
Add all other ingredients, and shake over ice.
Double strain the liquid in your salt rimmed margarita glass.
Garnish with jalapeno.

Call me Margo by Avril Gonsalves, head mixologist, Butterfly High, Thane and BKC

Citrusy yet balanced, Call me Margo will become your go-to in no time. Photo credits/Butterfly High

This is a seemingly complex yet perfectly balanced cocktail that is sure to be loved by those who swear by the classic. "Citric and coriander-infused tequila gives a very distinct taste of the spirit which is again combined with Asian spices, and then washes the palate with a hint of salt and matcha powder," explains Gonsalves.

Ingredients:
Orange and coriander-infused tequila 45 ml
5 spice syrup 10 ml
Fresh orange juice 10 ml
Sugar syrup 15 ml
Fresh lime juice 5 ml
Smoked salt (pinch)
10 ml Cointreau

Method:
Bring all ingredients together, and shake over ice.
Strain the liquid in a salt rimmed Margarita glass.

Play Quiz: How much do you know about the Day of the Dead?

Guac-a-rita by Rahul Kamath, beverage head, Elephant & Co, Goa and Pune
Guacamole might possibly be the most popular Mexican delicacy, and it comes as no surprise that the creative minds at Elephant & Co did not combine the two superstars to make a curious concoction. Kamath shares, "Our love for guacamole and margarita is reflected in the Guac-a-rita which is a take on the classic margarita. The concept of a cocktail on a plate caters to a savoury palate."

Ingredients:
Guacamole(without onion or garlic) infused triple sec 20 ml
Lime Juice 15 ml
Jose Cuervo 45 ml

Method:
Mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice, and shake well till chilled.
Double strain in a glass of choice with a black olive dust rim.
Garnish with nachos.

Strawberry with dark chocolate Margarita by Mayur Mallik, head mixologist, Maai, Goa
For those who seek a less citrusy variation of this bold cocktail, Mayur Mallik came up with this blend of fresh strawberries and dark chocolate. To top it all, it is a one-step cocktail that can be mastered in no-time. "This innovative twist on the classic was aimed at pleasing fruit lovers who want to add a little zing to their cocktails," says Mallik.

Ingredients:
Tequila 45ml
Cointreau 15ml
Fresh strawberry 4-5 pc
Dark chocolate syrup 20ml
Lime 15ml

Method:
Bring all ingredients together and blend.

Also Read: Chorus for chorizo: Why more Mumbai restaurants are opting to work with the Goan speciality