THE 5 MAIN TYPICAL YUCATAN DRINKS - CULTURE VOCABULARY - 2025

The typical drinks of Yucatan, Mexico, are quite varied. For its realization indigenous elements are used, such as xtabentún, chaya and henequen.

These typical drinks are believed to have their origin in pre-Hispanic times. They are very popular for the variety of their flavors, ranging from very sweet to very bitter, and for the simplicity with which they are prepared.

You may also be interested in the traditions and customs of Yucatan or its archaeological sites.

The 5 main typical drinks of Yucatan

1- Xtabentún

It is a liquor made from fermented honey. It is taken from bees that are fed with the xtabentún flower. It is made with a little anise, melipona honey and cane rum.

This liquor can be served with ice, alone, natural or cold. It is often used as a digestive drink.

This drink was produced by the Mayans for ceremonial uses. Many historians suggest that it was a kind of balché (alcoholic drink) that had hallucinogenic properties. This is why he helped them to enter a trance during their rituals and ceremonies.

2- Chaya water

Chaya water is very popular in the Yucatan area. Its refreshing flavor and healthy components are a delicacy for the hot days of the year.

It is very simple to do. The chaya is washed, a liter of water is added and it is liquefied. Sugar and ice can be added to taste.

3- Pineapple with chaya

The pineapple with chaya is a similar version of chaya water, but with pineapple. Yucatecans adore this version.

Thanks to the nutritional benefits of pineapple, this drink can be taken regularly to lower cholesterol, improve blood circulation, facilitate digestion and regulate pressure.

4- Coconut horchata

Coconut horchata is one of the most ancient drinks in Yucatan. It is made by mixing rice, water, cinnamon, coconut water, milk and a little bit of grated coconut in a blender. This mixture is boiled until it thickens and then sugar is added to sweeten it.

It is recommended to let it cool. When it is at room temperature, you can place some ice cubes to accentuate the flavor of the coconut with the cinnamon.

5- Henequen liquor

Henequen liquor is a product originally from Izamal and is produced using the henequen plant, which is emblematic of Yucatan. Like all liquor, it goes through a process of extraction, fermentation and distillation.

Many people believe that this drink bears some resemblance to mezcal, another high-alcoholic beverage, but its taste is different.

References

1. Henequen industry in Yucatán (nd). Retrieved on November 2, 2017, from Wikipedia.
2. Landa, Fray. (1959). Relationship of the things of Yucatan. Editorial Porrúa, Mexico.
3. Quero, JC (2000). Traditional drinks and sweets. Mexico, Conaculta.
4. Rojas, Arturo (2017). 100% Mexico. Mexican cocktails. Larousse SA editions
5. Torrentera, Ulises. (2001). Mezcalaria. Farolito, Mexico.