Acapulco Night

Acapulco Night Recipe: Authentic Mexican Drink | FoodLovers

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Servings: 1

Introduction

Acapulco Night is a vibrant and refreshing cocktail that captures the essence of a tropical evening under the stars. This delightful mix of gold tequila, bénédictine liqueur, and orange juice is not just a drink but an experience, transporting you straight to the sandy beaches and festive nights of Acapulco, Mexico. Perfect for any occasion, this cocktail is sure to impress with its simplicity and depth of flavor.

History

The Acapulco Night cocktail is inspired by the rich and colorful nightlife of Acapulco, a famous resort city on Mexico's Pacific coast. Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts, Acapulco has been a beloved destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. The cocktail itself is a relatively modern creation, designed to capture the spirit of Acapulco's lively evenings. Its ingredients reflect the local flavors and the international appeal of this coastal paradise.

Ingredients

1.5 oz (43 g) of gold tequila
0.75 oz (21 g) of bénédictine liqueur
2 oz (57 g) of orange juice

How to prepare

Combine the ingredients with ice and shake.

Variations

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the tequila and bénédictine liqueur with non-alcoholic substitutes or simply increase the amount of orange juice.
Add a splash of soda water for a fizzy variation.
Incorporate other citrus juices like lime or grapefruit for a different flavor profile.
For a non-alcoholic version, replace the tequila and bénédictine liqueur with non-alcoholic substitutes or simply increase the amount of orange juice. To add complexity, muddle a few mint leaves or add a dash of grenadine for a sweeter, more colorful drink.
For a sweeter version, add a splash of simple syrup or agave nectar. To make a non-alcoholic version, substitute the tequila and bénédictine liqueur with non-alcoholic alternatives or increase the amount of orange juice.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the perfect Acapulco Night cocktail, consider the following tips:

- Use high-quality gold tequila for a smoother taste.

- Chill your cocktail glass beforehand to keep the drink cool longer.

- Shake the ingredients vigorously with ice to ensure a well-mixed cocktail with a slightly frothy top.

- Strain the mixture into the glass to remove any unwanted ice chips.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Acapulco Night in a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange slice or a twist of orange peel to enhance the visual appeal and add a zesty aroma.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in preparing an Acapulco Night is shaking the ingredients with ice. This not only chills the drink but also dilutes it slightly, balancing the flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

If gold tequila is not available, white tequila can be used as a substitute. Cointreau or Grand Marnier can replace bénédictine liqueur for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

While Acapulco Night is best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-mix the tequila and bénédictine liqueur in equal proportions and store in a cool place. Add orange juice and ice just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, rim the glass with salt or sugar and add a decorative umbrella or edible flower for a tropical touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Acapulco Night pairs well with light appetizers, seafood dishes, and tropical salads. Its citrusy flavor complements spicy and savory flavors beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

As a fresh cocktail, Acapulco Night does not require storage or reheating. It is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Acapulco Night contains approximately 180 calories. The majority of these calories come from the alcohol content in the tequila and bénédictine liqueur.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of Acapulco Night contains approximately 11 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the orange juice. The bénédictine liqueur also contributes a small amount to the total carbohydrate content.

Fats

This cocktail is virtually fat-free, making it a lighter choice for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

Acapulco Night contains negligible amounts of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

The orange juice in Acapulco Night provides a good source of Vitamin C, essential for immune system function and skin health. Additionally, it contains small amounts of potassium, which is vital for heart health and muscle function.

Alergens

Acapulco Night is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, gluten, and soy. However, those with specific allergies to citrus or any ingredients in the alcohol should consume with caution.

Summary

Acapulco Night is a relatively low-calorie cocktail with minimal fat and protein content. It offers a good dose of Vitamin C thanks to the orange juice, making it a somewhat healthier choice among alcoholic beverages.

Summary

Acapulco Night is a delightful cocktail that embodies the spirit of Acapulco's vibrant nightlife. With its simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients, it offers a refreshing and relatively healthy option for those looking to enjoy a taste of the tropics. Whether you're hosting a party or simply relaxing at home, this cocktail is sure to add a touch of excitement to your evening.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer night in Acapulco, Mexico, and I was wandering through the bustling market, taking in all the sights and sounds. The air was filled with the aromas of freshly grilled meats, spicy salsas, and sweet pastries. As I meandered through the colorful stalls, I stumbled upon a small, unassuming booth tucked away in a corner.

The elderly woman behind the counter greeted me with a warm smile and a twinkle in her eye. She beckoned me closer, her weathered hands deftly rolling out balls of masa for homemade tortillas. Intrigued, I watched as she expertly flipped them on the comal, the sizzle of the griddle filling the air.

Curious, I struck up a conversation with her, asking about the traditional dishes she was preparing. She chuckled softly, her eyes twinkling with mischief, and beckoned me to sit at a rickety table covered with a brightly colored tablecloth. As she poured me a glass of hibiscus agua fresca, she began to regale me with tales of her youth, of family gatherings and fiestas, of love and loss.

As the night wore on, she shared with me the recipe for Acapulco Night, a dish that she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago. It was a rich and complex stew, filled with tender chunks of pork, earthy chilies, and fragrant spices. The flavors were bold and intense, a true reflection of the vibrant culture of Mexico.

I sat there, entranced by her storytelling and the tantalizing aroma wafting from the bubbling pot on the stove. She ladled a steaming bowl of the stew into a handmade ceramic bowl and handed it to me with a knowing smile. I took a hesitant sip, my taste buds exploding with a symphony of flavors.

As I savored each bite, I felt a deep connection to this mysterious woman and the generations of women who had come before her. The love and care she had poured into this dish were evident in every mouthful. It was a taste of history, a taste of tradition, a taste of Acapulco.

When I returned home, I recreated the recipe for Acapulco Night in my own kitchen, using the memories of that warm summer night as my guide. I gathered the ingredients, carefully measuring and chopping, allowing the aromas to transport me back to that bustling market in Mexico.

As the stew simmered on the stove, filling my house with its heady perfume, I thought of the elderly woman and the stories she had shared with me. I thought of the generations of women who had passed down this recipe, each adding their own twist, their own touch.

When the stew was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and set them on the table, the vibrant colors and fragrant steam rising into the air. My family gathered around, their eyes lighting up with anticipation. As they took their first bites, I watched with satisfaction as their faces lit up with delight.

And as we sat around the table, sharing stories and laughter, I knew that this recipe for Acapulco Night would be one that I would cherish and pass down to future generations. It was more than just a dish; it was a link to the past, a celebration of culture and tradition, a taste of Acapulco. And for that, I would always be grateful to the mysterious woman in the market who had shared her recipe with me that warm summer night.