Tequila Pairings: 5 Indian Dishes That Bring Out The Best In The Agave Spirit
Tequila is a very versatile spirit. Different variations of tequila are complete with slightly crisp, caramelised and oaky flavours, all of which carry the finishing notes of the agave which is used to make the spirit. Now, tequila is being reimagined as an excellent addition to Indian-style cocktails full of desi flavour twists, which only goes to show how well it complements regional Indian ingredients.
Unsurprisingly, tequila also pairs exceptionally well with a lot of savoury and spicy Indian dishes. Cocktails featuring tequila can be served alongside a spread of chaat or spicy tandoori fare or even grilled seafood – all of which bring forth the citrusy, fruity and slightly vanilla-like flavours of the spirit. At a gathering full of such flavourful repasts, tequila cocktails might become suitable pairings culminating in an integrated food-first experience.
Read on below to know more about some Indian dishes that bring forth the bright and earthy notes of the tequila in a perfect harmony of complex flavours:
Grilled Prawns And Seafood
One of the best accompaniments with grilled prawns or other grilled fish is tequila cocktails. The mildly spicy, slightly citrusy and subtly sweet flavours of the crustacean seem to go well with blends like a masala margarita or a spiced paloma which echo these regional notes. The brininess of the seafood coupled with the clean flavours of a mildly spicy marinade made with a hint of lime, go with the citrusy effect of about 30 ml tequila blanco added to the cocktails that become more pronounced because of these sweet, tangy Indian-style dishes.
Spicy Tandoori Chicken Tikka
Marinated in a mix of creamy yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, red chilli powder, cumin powder and coriander powder along with a host of other spices and masalas, this dish carries the charred, smoky effect of the tandoor coupled with the spiciness of the marinade. Its rich flavours go well with the deep notes of about 30 ml tequila reposado featured in many complex cocktails like a tequila sour whose slightly aged notes nicely compliment the depth of the succulent, perfectly cooked tandoori chicken.
Also Read: Indian-Inspired Veg Starter Menu List To Serve With Cocktails
Aloo Chaat
Another interesting option, rather popular as a streetside snack, is a tangy aloo chaat complete with the spice of mint chutney and the sourness of tamarind. The light and citrusy finish of aloo chaat nicely compliments the fresh and crisp notes of about 30 ml tequila blanco added to different desi blends like a raw mango margarita or a masala tequila highball. The acidity and tang of the chaat and the light citrusy and spicy finish of the cocktail ingredients both work together to accentuate the peppery, grassy notes of a good quality tequila blanco. At an evening gathering featuring chaat, complimentary tequila cocktails might work as suitable cocktail options.
Ghee Roast Mutton
Known for its rich, complex masalas and perfectly cooked pieces of mutton marinated in these luxurious spices, ghee roast mutton is actually an excellent pairing with tequila añejo. This is a finely aged, mature tequila variation with full-bodied notes of agave and an oaky, spicy finish. The depth and earthy flavour of the ghee roast is a suitable pairing with about 30 ml of this drink often served in a snifter for a more nuanced tasting experience.
Masala Corn
Another appetiser which brings out the bright flavours of tequila blanco, masala corn complete with a spicy, citrusy finish and the earthy layer of chaat masala is an excellent pairing with classic tequila cocktails. The crunchy texture and charred effect that introduces a smokiness into the corn when served on the cob become interesting contrasts with the crisp and light flavours of about 30 ml tequila blanco present in a classic margarita blend.
Drink Responsibly. This communication is for audiences above the age of 25.
