Tara A. Spears
While this beverage may not have been invented for semana santa, it is popular drink for hot, sunny vacations. 
“The Michelada, next to tequila, is the best invention that Mexico gave to the world,” says vox populi magazine. In Mexico, the average person consumes approximately 70 liters of beer annually, which translates to millions of liters of beer consumed per year. You’ll love this refreshing blend of bubbly beer and zesty lime with a kick of hot sauce- it’s the perfect way to add some spice to your usual drink lineup. Micheladas are often served with the bottle or can of beer partially poured so you can add more alcohol as you see fit.
Common legend says that the name “Michelada” came from the saying ‘mi chela helad, which translated means “my frosty beer” or “my ice-cold beer” in Spanish. Don’t you wish it was as easy to learn all Spanish as this?
This cocktail is a favorite of the under 35 group because the Michelada has no limits and what counts is what’s inside! One reason for its popularity is that Michelada is an any-time, any-place drink that is good with any type of food. Many beer enthusiasts believe that the Michelada aides in reducing the effects of a hangover, which is perfect for vacation binge drinking.
So, how does the Michelada act as a hangover cure? Proponents of the Michelada as a hangover cure point to its unique combination of ingredients, which may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with hangovers. The beer in a Michelada, for instance, contains some electrolytes. The lime and tomato juice adds a burst of vitamin C, an antioxidant that can help combat the oxidative stress caused by alcohol metabolism. Additionally, the spices and sauces often included in a Michelada, such as hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce, may help stimulate digestion and alleviate nausea.
While the scientific evidence may be limited, many people swear by the effectiveness of Micheladas in alleviating hangover symptoms. Anecdotal reports from individuals who’ve tried Micheladas as a hangover remedy often cite the drink’s ability to rehydrate the body, replenish electrolytes, and provide a much-needed boost of energy. Some even claim that the Michelada can help reduce the severity of headaches and nausea, although these effects are likely due to the placebo effect or the drink’s ability to distract from hangover symptoms rather than any direct therapeutic action. Just think, a frosty Michelada for breakfast gets you back in the game-yeah!
Many bartenders/ chefs use the basic Michelada recipe as a springboard to showcase garnishments. Who doesn’t love a cocktail that doubles as an appetizer? The super-garnished Michelada is precisely that. Loaded with edible goodies like shrimp, celery, and pineapple, you get your protein, veggie, and fruit all in one fun beer drink. So why don’t we just call it a well-balanced cocktail?
For the basic drink itself, you will need Tajin seasoning, Clamato juice, (or regular tomato juice,) Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, hot sauce, at least two limes, and Corona or any other Mexican beer. If using shrimp as a garnish, make sure to use cooked, peeled shrimp; precooked small shrimp are a great size and easy to thread onto bamboo skewers.
Whether it’s vacation or a lazy day at the beach, enhance your relaxing with a Michelada. 
Get in that Mexican fiesta state of mind: Don’t be afraid to play with the heat level in your cocktail, go ahead and add that extra dash of hot sauce. A Michelada is super refreshing anytime of the year, whether you’re in the sun, along the water, or chilling NOTB.