Brazilian recipe
Traditional Brazilian Spiced Hot Cachaça Drink (Quentão)
Whip up an aromatic and soul-warming drink, perfect for taking the chill off cold evenings. A simple yet punchy blend of spices and fruit.
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Ingredients
1 bottle of cachaça (600 ml)
600 ml of water
500 g of sugar
Peel of 2 oranges
Peel of 1 lemon
50 g of ginger, thinly sliced or chopped
Whole cloves to taste
Cinnamon sticks to taste
1 apple, chopped into small pieces
600 ml of water
500 g of sugar
Peel of 2 oranges
Peel of 1 lemon
50 g of ginger, thinly sliced or chopped
Whole cloves to taste
Cinnamon sticks to taste
1 apple, chopped into small pieces
Where to find ingredients
The core ingredient, cachaça, is a specific Brazilian sugar cane spirit; check the 'International' or 'World Foods' section of high-end supermarkets or look for it in specialized liquor stores that carry South American spirits. If you cannot locate it, you might find a decent golden rum as a substitute, though the flavour profile will be different from the authentic version. For the aromatics—fresh ginger, oranges, lemons, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves—your local wet market or general grocery store produce section will have everything you need. Ensure your cinnamon is in stick form rather than powder to keep the liquid clear and the texture right.
Preparation method
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, toss in the sugar, orange peels, lemon peels, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon sticks
- Place over medium heat, stirring every so often until the sugar begins to melt and gently caramelise
- Carefully pour the cachaça and water into the pot
- Stir everything thoroughly until the caramel has fully dissolved into the liquid
- Let the mixture simmer over medium heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, allowing all those warm spices to infuse perfectly
- Once finished, strain the drink into a clean pot or pitcher to remove the spices and fruit peels
- Stir the fresh chopped apple pieces into the strained hot drink
- Keep it warm over a low flame or a gentle heat source until ready to serve
Observations
Quentão is a staple of Brazilian tradition, famously enjoyed during the festive June harvest celebrations known as 'Festas Juninas' and whenever the temperature drops. Traditionally crafted using cachaça, this drink masterfully layers spices and fruit to deliver a comforting, warming experience. It is a straightforward, no-fuss recipe that is easily adjusted to your palate, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or just a cozy night in.
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