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| Marigold flower petals---show the way |
This three day (or so) holiday- honoring of the dead in life for some in the northern Western Hemisphere... may be limited to watching Disney's blockbuster "Coco" ...but now plenty of USA retail stores, restaurants and individuals are marking this occasion-with altars, festivities and feasts.
Yandy.com-an online destination for Halloween costumes (among other offerings like lingerie/activewear) -even has its second biggest holiday sales for Day of the Dead festivities.
via GIPHY
One of our fav James Bond opening sequences-that never lack for drama. A Day of the Dead parade...
Pan dulce-sweet breads, fermented beverage (pulque), hot chocolate, and white sugar skulls are some traditional treats.
For crowd pleasing light bites-Flirting with Flavors entertainment host par excellence Pamela Morgan serves up authentic Mexican cuisine like Tequila Shrimp, White Gazpacho and Salmon Tartare-plus a taco bar...culinary treats that were devoured at a Fiesta Mexicana affair.
For an at-home libations ... Mexican made Tequila is a natural choice.
For sipping (like bourbon or scotch)- single barrel Extra Añejo tequilas made in small batches and aged in French oak barrels are at their smoky smooth complex (super special Casa Noble has one-distributed in limited edition numbered/signed bottles - premium José Cuervo's 1800 Anejo tequila's Colleción limited edition pours from fine custom-designed decanters). Or try Maestro Dobel Diamante Tequila with agave syrup, fresh lime and a black salted rim glass and top of the line
This aged style tequila also works well for the traditional drink - found online-the Dia de Los Muertos sip -infusing organic marigold petals, and cinnamon sticks in tequila...this flower is traditionally scattered from altar to grave site to guide wandering souls.
Blanco tequilas-with a balanced palate-are ideal for cocktails. There are several quality brands including the appropriately named Chamucos Diablo Blanco (chamuco slang for devil)-a premium selection (around $59.99) who shared this recipe:
El Diablo
.75 oz. Chamucos Diablo Blanco
.5 oz. crème de cassis
.5 oz. fresh lime juice
3 oz. ginger beer
Tools: shaker, strainer, fine strainer
Glass: highball
Garnish: lime wedge and fresh blackberry or candied ginger (optional)
Combine all ingredients, except ginger beer, and shake. Fine-strain into an ice-filled Collins glass, top with ginger beer and garnish.