Our take on Sangrita…
Sangrita is a traditional “back” to a shot of tequila that, typically, is tomato juice fancied up with some citrus and other flavors. And, while it does go well with tequila (mostly silver tequila if you ask me), I find it to often be too thick.
When we opened Dos Perros, we set out to make a more refined version and found the solution right there waiting for us. When you make pico de gallo, the salt leaches the water out of the tomatoes and onions and this liquid needs to be drained off or the salsa is too wet and runny. Well, what you’re draining off is basically salsa essence and what we decided was the perfect base for our Sangrita. So, we brighten that up with a bit of lime and orange juice, juce a few jalapenos into it if need be, and the result is a light and delicious foil for a shot of nice tequila.
We offer it as a complimentary side to a shot, but I really suggest that you skip it if you’re drinking one of our anejos, because I just don’t think the rich, sweet, and smooth nature of those tequilas compliments the flavor profile of the Sangrita. Just sip those on their own. Reposados are fine, but I still think the best match is a nice silver.
We also make a cocktail called Maria Clara. It’s essentially an ethereal bloody mary, served up, and made with our Sangrita rather than a more traditional bloody mary mix. A clean, light drink that embodies many of the flavors that fans of bloody maries are drawn to.
Next time you feel like a nice shot of silver tequila (my favorite is the Corzo), be sure to ask for a sangrita back. Or, if you’d prefer a mixed drink, ask for a Maria Clara. I’m sure you’ll love either.
Tried this my last visit there a week or so back (disappointed no sopes on the menu that night- I have to keep trying!). It was really nicely balanced, flavor was spot on. I do miss the body found in the more traditional sangrita- but note above that was a conscious decision on your part. It’s also interesting to add that many “purists” in Mexico turn their nose up at any sangrita that contains tomato- but it is definitely my preference, and I’m glad you chose to go that route.
Now you’ve added this to your repertoire, I’d love to see you expand your tequila roster a bit more!
To be honest, we’ve made a specific decision to simply feature tequilas that we’re excited about. In other words, we feel we owe it to our customers to not simply just get every one out there, partially because the choice can be a bit overwhelming (for them). With that in mind, we’re never going to have a huge wall of tequila. Rather, a nice selection that we feel very good about.
There are a few tequilas that I love and would like to get, but working within the restrictions of the NC ABC can make that hard to do.
Nice blog and nice post guy!
I love tequila and cocktails, thanks for sharing.