September 16th Not May 5th is Mexican Independence Day

September 16th marks a historical day of commemoration for Mexicans all over the world known as Mexican Independence Day. It’s a day to toast Mexico’s independence from Spanish rule, marking a day of celebration that’s even bigger than Cinco de Mayo, which most Americans incorrectly believe to be the celebration of Mexican independence.

As the now legendary story is told, in the early hours on September 16th, 1810, father Hidalgo rang the bell of his little church, calling everyone to fight for liberty against the Spaniards. This moment marked the beginning of the Independence War, which lasted ten years. Today it is customary for Mexico’s President to deliver the “El Grito” (The Cry) in Mexico City when the clock strikes eleven o’clock on the evening of September 16th. He shouts "Viva Mexico," "Viva la independencia," and the crowd echoes back. It is in the plaza, atop the National Palace, that the original bell rung by Hidalgo is located and is rung. People all across the world celebrate “El Grito” at the very same moment and the tradition has been followed year after year.

During Mexican Independence Day, people fill the streets for a fiesta. Activities include colorful parades, music, dancing, bullfights, rodeos, and fireworks. In addition, eating great food and drinking tequila are important traditions to keep the party going. While this holiday is traditionally celebrated in Mexico, the U.S. has been celebrating it for years in such cities as Chicago, San Antonio, Denver, Phoenix, Houston and Austin.

When joining the festivities on September 16th, consider toasting this historic moment with Cabo Wabo Tequila, the world’s most distinctive ultra-premium tequila. Created by legendary rocker Sammy Hagar, Cabo Wabo Tequila is sure to kick-start your celebration. Cabo Wabo Tequila can be enjoyed in a classic margarita, sipped and savored in a unique cocktail, or taken as a smooth shot.

Whichever way you choose to enjoy it, Cabo Wabo Tequila will keep you rockin’ for Mexican Independence Day. We’ve even included a few food recipes, in case you get hungry.

Cheers!

Margarita Independencia
1 oz Cabo Wabo Reposado Tequila
1 oz Triple Sec
1 oz Cointreau
1 oz Southern Comfort
1 oz Pineapple Juice
Shake it up and serve over ice in a margarita glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

¡El Grito!
2 oz. Cabo Wabo Blanco Tequila
1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
1 Lime Twist

Shake up tequila and juice and pour into martini glass. Garnish with lime.

¡Viva Mexico!
1 oz Cabo Reposado Tequila
1 oz Ginger Beer
1/2 oz freshly squeezed Lime Juice

Stir ingredients into an ice-filled highball glass. Garnish with a lime or lemon wedge.

Tequila Tri-Tip
· 4 to 4 pounds beef tri-tip with most fat trimmed off (a little on the bottom side is good)
· 3 Tbsp Cabo Wabo Blanco Tequila
· 2 Tbsp sesame oil
· 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
· 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
· 2 cloves minced garlic
· 1 tsp salt
· 1 tsp black pepper

Preparation:
Mix tequila, sesame oil, Dijon mustard, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small bowl and place in a large zip-top bag with tri-tip. Marinate at least two hours before desired grilling time.

Grilling Method: Pre-heat gas grill to 400 degrees F. Place meat on grill top-side down for 3-4 minutes for nice grill marks. Flip over and reduce heat slightly - close lid, if possible. To be prepared for flare-ups, keep an open beer by the grill and use as a 'fire extinguisher.' If no flare-ups occur, then enjoy the beer yourself with a shot of Cabo Wabo! Cook for 20-25 minutes or until meat thermometer inserted in center reads 135-140 degrees F.

Queso Fundido (Mexican Cheese Fondue)
1 lb Mexican queso "Cacique" or "El Mexicano" or any other queso blanco , cut into chunks
3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
juice of 4 limes, or ¼ cup lime juice
2 Tbsp Cabo Wabo Anejo Tequila
6 to 8 drops of a Mexican Hot Sauce, or other hot pepper sauce

Preperation:
Slowly melt cheese in a medium saucepan over flow heat. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon. When almost melted, add the garlic, lime, and the hot sauce, and heat through. Serve immediately with tortillas or chips.