Chavela is a Mexican cerveza preparada that combines Modelo lager with tomato juice, hot sauce, tequila, and a Tajín-rimmed glass. It's a savory, spiced beer cocktail that differs from a Michelada by its inclusion of tequila and heavier tomato juice base.
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Run a wedge of lemon/lime around the rim of a pint glass, reserve it for garnish. Pour coarse salt or Tajin onto a small plate and dip the wet rim of the glass to coat.
Place a few ice cubes into the glass. Add the tomato juice and the hot sauce. Stir to mix. Add the Modelo lager* and (optional) shot of tequila.**
Garnish with the lemon/lime wedge.
Chavela is a cocktail best consumed immediately after mixing; store leftover Modelo and tomato juice separately in the refrigerator and remix if needed.
pint glass · small plate (for rimming)
A Chavela typically includes tequila and uses more tomato juice, creating a richer, more cocktail-like drink. A Michelada is simpler, usually just beer with hot sauce, lime, and spices—no tequila or tomato juice.
Yes, tequila is optional in this recipe. You'll have a beer-forward drink closer to a Michelada, but it will still be a valid Chavela.
Any Mexican pilsner-style lager works—Corona, Pacifico, or Dos Equis are good alternatives with similar light, crisp profiles.
Bottled hot sauce like Valentina or Tabasco works perfectly. The recipe calls for 5-6 dashes to taste, so adjust to your heat preference.
Regular coarse salt works fine, but Tajín (chile-lime seasoning) adds authentic flavor and color. It's the preferred rim for a traditional Chavela.
