National Rum Day is August 16th, and it’s the perfect excuse to shake up your cocktail routine, especially if you’re looking for the perfect drink to pair with your Mexican food. We often associate Mexican dishes with tequila-based drinks, such as the margarita or Paloma. However, there are plenty of rum cocktails that also pair perfectly with Mexican food. At La Vaka, we love pairing our dishes with a delicious drink, so we’ve come up with some food and drink combos that pair up our favorite menu items with tasty rum cocktails.
Try pairing a different drink with your Mexican food! Here are some rum cocktails that go well with our favorite dishes.
Mojito + Seafood Tacos
The Mojito, with its refreshing blend of white rum, mint, lime, and soda water, is a go-to cocktail for cutting through the spiciness or richness of fried dishes. Its cooling profile makes it an ideal match for Baja-style fish tacos. The mint and lime balance the richness of fried fish, while the bubbles cleanse your palate between bites. It’s the perfect option if you opt for the fried version of our seafood tacos.
Rum Paloma + Carne Asada
A twist on the classic Paloma, this version substitutes rum for tequila, preferably a light or gold rum. Mix with fresh grapefruit juice, lime, and a splash of soda for a tart, slightly sweet drink that complements grilled meats perfectly. The citrus notes enhance the smoky, charred flavors of carne asada. It’s also a perfect complement to grilled chicken or fajitas with charred beef or chicken and bell peppers.
Dark ’n Stormy + Nachos Al Pastor
The bold combo of dark rum and ginger beer in a Dark ’n Stormy holds its own against intensely seasoned dishes like al pastor. The spicy kick of ginger echoes the heat in the marinade, while the molasses notes in dark rum add complexity and depth. We serve our Nachos al Pastor with grilled pineapple, so you get the perfect balance of sweet and spicy, just like a Dark ’n Stormy.
Pair the Perfect Drink with Your Mexican Food at La Vaka
Mexican food is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the perfect drink makes it that much better. This National Rum Day, come to La Vaka to try a new cocktail and Mexican food combo. Who knows, you may just find your new favorite!