Noun
/atole/
"Atole" is a traditional Mexican beverage made from masa (corn dough) dissolved in water or milk and flavored with various components such as fruits, chocolate, or spices. It is typically consumed warm and is popular especially during cold months or festive occasions.
The term is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, particularly in Mexican cuisine discussions and cultural references. It reflects a significant part of Mexican heritage and is often associated with gatherings and celebrations.
Me gusta tomar atole de chocolate en las mañanas.
(I like to drink chocolate atole in the mornings.)
El atole de frutas es muy popular durante las festividades.
(Fruit atole is very popular during the festivals.)
Los niños disfrutan de atole caliente en el invierno.
(Children enjoy warm atole in the winter.)
"Atole" does not have many direct idiomatic expressions but can appear in culinary phrases and cultural contexts. Here are some common uses around it:
"Estar como el atole."
(To be like atole.)
This expression is used to describe someone who is not solid or stable, similar to the consistency of atole which is thick but fluid.
"Te lo voy a dejar más claro que atole."
(I’m going to make it clearer than atole for you.)
This phrase means to explain something as clearly as possible, using atole as a metaphor for clarity.
"No me des atole con el dedo."
(Don’t give me atole with your finger.)
This idiom means to not try to deceive someone or to not feed them lies, as you might make a thin line between real atole and a deceitful act.
The word "atole" comes from the Nahuatl word "atolli," which refers to a gruel or drink made from corn. The use of corn dates back to Pre-Columbian times and is central to many facets of Mexican cuisine and culture.
Synonyms: - Atole de maíz (corn atole) - Bebida de maíz (corn drink)
Antonyms: There's no direct antonym for "atole," as it is a specific type of drink. However, in terms of drinks, one could refer to beverages that are cold or different in nature, such as "agua" (water) or "refresco" (soda).
Atole is not just a drink; it's a part of Mexican identity and culinary tradition. Its various forms and adaptations showcase both regional diversity and cultural significance. It plays a role not only in the gastronomic realm but also in daily life and festivities.