All of the food at the Fort Worth Food + Wine Festival was so delicious that it stuck with us. And, thankfully, there was one item we actually took home.
Locally based Halo del Santo margarita salt is the brainchild of brothers Matt and Scott Hackler. The duo took a vacation to Jalisco, found themselves taste-testing tequilas in Tequila, and were struck when they sampled a cocktail rimmed with a combination of salt, chile and lime. They vowed to bring the flavor home, and 19 recipes later, the Hacklers landed on what is now Halo del Santo.
Chances are you have probably already tasted the creation. The all-natural blend of kosher salt, fiery chile, and tart citrus graces the rims of many local cocktails including the margaritas at Los Vaqueros in the Stockyards and all Fred's locations.
After the salty success, Halo del Santo introduced paletas enchiladas, or Mexican-style lollipops. Sold at local Spec's stores in packages of six with pineapple, mango and watermelon flavors, the pops are equal parts sweet and salty. Just in time for the holidays, Halo del Santo is adding three more paletas flavors including strawberry, tamarind and orange.
Paletas enchiladas, or Mexican-style lollipops. Photo courtesy of No. 4 St. James, fourstjames.com.
"We know of no other company in the country making this traditional candy and are so proud of how it turned out," said Scott Hackler, co-founder of Halo del Santo.
Where to Sip
This sweet and tangy creation can be used for more than just margaritas. Some Fort Worth mixologists are getting inventive with the locally made salt. Find Halo del Santo on these cocktails around town.
Café Modern
Bloody Mary
3200 Darnell St.
cafemodern.com
Fred's Texas Cafe
Michelada &Bloody Mary
Original
915 Currie St.
TCU
3509 Blue Bonnet Circle
North
2730 Western Center
Chef Point Café
Frozen Mango Margarita
5901 Watauga Road, Watauga
Upper 90
Served on fresh fruit and cucumber
961 W Magnolia Ave.
