With the Olympics in Brazil upon us, it is only appropriate to introduce a new cocktail to our collection: the Caipirinha. It is Brazil’s national drink however it is lesser known than its cousin, the Mojito. Once used as a treatment for the Spanish flu, it now is still used to treat the common cold or just the fatigue of a humid day. This drink is definitely worth making it on your summer short list! As a favorite drink here in Ecuador, it has certainly made ours

Typically made with Cachaça liqour, this drink is refreshing and cuts the humidity of those hot South American days perfectly. Both Cachaça and rum are made from the sweet sugarcane. Cachaça liquor is derived from the fermentation process of fresh sugarcane juice that is distilled, while its counter part, rum, is made of its by-products like molasses. However, I find that Cachaça can be hard to find and white rum (or Caña if in Ecuador) works as the substitute for those in need of the drink now!

It is a tangy, light and simple drink that is great for lazy summer days. What can be better than a drink that takes 5 minutes to prepare?!

Jilly’s Take:

Caipirinha Ingredients

1/2 lime(s)

3/4 teaspoon raw sugar

2 ounces Cachaça (if you don’t have it on hand and want a similiar-que drink try Caña or White Rum)

handful of ice

Instructions:

Slice the limes into 4 quadrants, and squeeze & place them in the glass. Next, add sugar and press the two ingredients together with a spoon. Add the liquor and a handful of ice cubes. Stir and enjoy!



