How to make Refajo

Why cooks start here

Refajo is cooked the way asado tables cooks it — salt judged by hand, fat used generously, and the table set for sharing. This is the home version, written down the way a colombian family cook actually puts it on the table.

Refajo is a cherished companion at asado gatherings, where the grill sizzles with meat and conversations flow as freely as the drinks. This refreshing concoction, a blend of Colombian beer and cola or malta, is a mainstay on tables set for sharing among family and friends. It’s a drink born from a tradition of generous hospitality, where ingredients are measured by instinct rather than precision, and the essence of the meal is in the communal experience rather than exact recipes. The first sip of Refajo is a playful dance of sweet and malty notes, balanced by a subtle bitterness from the beer. The pinch of salt heightens these flavors, while a squeeze of lime adds a refreshing citrus twist. Poured over ice, it’s both invigorating and soothing, a perfect counterpoint to the rich, smoky flavors of grilled meats. This beverage is best enjoyed with others, its simplicity a reminder of the joys of shared meals under the open sky.