There may be over 3,600 kilometres between Canada and Mexico, but distance means nothing in the face of cherished traditions, especially with champions like Chef Aarón Sánchez.
With Día de los Muertos November 1-2, Narcity spoke to the Mexican-American chef, cookbook author, restaurateur, and TV personality about this special holiday meant to celebrate and honour loved ones who have passed. He also discussed the essential role that food and his go-to tequila, Tequila CAZADORES, play in keeping the celebrations close to his heart alive.
Whether you're interested in embracing Día de los Muertos for the first time or you celebrate annually, he also shares tips on creating the perfect menu along with his favourite cocktail recipe to bring people together this Día de los Muertos.
This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity.
As a Mexican-American living outside of Mexico, staying connected to his heritage is hugely important for Sánchez. Growing up in El Paso, Texas, he was raised in a proudly Mexican home with a mother and grandmother who pioneered Mexican cuisine in the United States.
When crafting the perfect Día de los Muertos menu, Sánchez values authenticity, so he turns to Tequila CAZADORES.
"This legendary tequila is something special," he said. "What sets Tequila CAZADORES apart is its deep-rooted history and commitment to authenticity, crafted from a recipe that has been passed down for over 100 years."
Made from 100% Highland Blue Weber agave, Tequila CAZADORES is meticulously double-distilled and fermented using a zero-waste production process to develop a creamy, elegant taste.
Chef Aarón Sánchez's Carne Asada Tacos. Courtesy of Tequila CAZADORES
One of Sánchez's favourite ways to use Tequila CAZADORES is in his Carne Asada Tacos, where he incorporates tequila into marinades and sauces, adding depth to the dish.
"I love how Tequila CAZADORES brings out the best in every dish and cocktail that I create," Sánchez said. "Its vibrant taste enhances my dishes and pairs perfectly with the authentic flavours of Mexican cuisine."
For Día de los Muertos, Sánchez recommends the Tequila CAZADORES Pomegranate Paloma, adding: "It's a festive and refreshing cocktail that can bring family together to honour the legacies of their past loved ones."
Tequila CAZADORES Pomegranate Paloma
The Pomegranate Paloma cocktail. @tequilacazadores | Instagram
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 oz of Tequila CAZADORES Blanco
- 1/2 oz of elderflower liqueur
- 2 oz of pomegranate juice
- 2 oz of lime juice
- Grapefruit soda
- Ice
- Lime wedge
- Salt
Steps:
- Add ice into a highball glass
- Pour all recipe ingredients into the highball glass
- Garnish with lime juice
For Canadians looking to embrace the holiday for the first time, Sánchez shared some tips for an authentic Día de los Muertos:
"Pan de muertos is a sweet bread and an essential Día de los Muertos food to have at your celebration," he said. "You can pair it with atole or Mexican hot chocolate as your beverage.
"Papel picado, which are colorful paper banners, candles, marigolds, and pictures of your loved ones who have passed are definitely some decorations to include."
But he encourages people to have fun and try new things, adding: "The most important part is enjoying time with friends and family."
The Blood Orange Margarita cocktail. @tequilacazadores | Instagram
"I believe it is so important to stay connected to your roots however you can," Sánchez told Narcity. "Whether that is speaking to your elders about their childhood, cooking traditional family recipes or visiting the countries your family has connections to."
"Día de los Muertos is a really special time to connect with those who have passed on and celebrate their memory," Sánchez said. "[It] means a lot to me. My father passed away when I was young, so I take the time to remember him and all the memories we shared together."
Día de los Muertos isn't just a time for remembrance but a joyful celebration of life and Mexican culture. Whether you're preparing a traditional meal or mixing up a festive cocktail, this holiday is the perfect time to come together with family and friends and raise a glass of Tequila CAZADORES to loved ones who have passed.
To learn more about Tequila CAZADORES, visit their website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram or X.
Narcity does not condone the overconsumption of alcohol. If you're going to drink alcohol, please do so responsibly and only if you're of legal age.