Best 50 Old Fashioned Cocktails – Caipirinha:
When was the Caipirinha Invented?
The Caipirinha is a traditional cocktail from Brazil and its exact origin is uncertain. However, it is believed to have originated in the early 20th century in the state of Sao Paulo, Brazil, where it was created as a medicinal drink made with cachaça, lime, honey, and garlic.
Over time, the recipe evolved to its current form, which consists of cachaça, lime, sugar, and ice. The Caipirinha became widely popular in Brazil during the mid-20th century and is now considered the country’s national cocktail.
What You Need
- cachaça (Brazilian rum)
- lime (depending on the size of the lime and your personal taste)
- granulated sugar
- Crushed ice
How to Make a Caipirinha
- Cut the lime into small wedges or rounds and place them in a highball glass or a rocks glass.
- Add the sugar to the glass and use a muddler or a wooden spoon to gently mash the lime and sugar together, releasing the lime juice and oils.
- Add crushed ice to the glass, filling it about 2/3 full.
- Pour the cachaça over the ice and stir the mixture together with a spoon.
- Top the glass with more crushed ice, if needed, and give the cocktail a final stir.
- Garnish the cocktail with a lime wedge or a slice, if desired.
Tip For Making a Caipirinha
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The key to a good Caipirinha is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Choose a good quality cachaça, fresh limes, and granulated sugar for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and lime to your taste: The amount of sugar and lime you use can vary depending on your personal taste and the size of the lime. Start with 2 teaspoons of sugar and half a lime, and adjust the amount to taste.
- Don’t over-muddle the lime: When muddling the lime and sugar, be careful not to over-muddle the lime. You want to release the juice and oils without mashing the lime into a pulp, as this can make the drink bitter.
- Use crushed ice: Crushed ice is essential for a good Caipirinha. It chills the drink quickly and helps to dilute the sugar and lime, creating a balanced flavor.
- Stir well: Be sure to stir the cocktail well after adding the cachaça to ensure that all the ingredients are well mixed.
Frequently asked questions
What is cachaça, and can it be substituted with another spirit?
Cachaça is a Brazilian distilled spirit made from sugarcane juice. It is similar to rum, but has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart. While it’s possible to substitute cachaça with rum in a Caipirinha, the flavor will be different. For the most authentic taste, it’s best to use cachaça.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
While granulated sugar is the traditional sweetener used in a Caipirinha, brown sugar can be used as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, and the cocktail may have a more caramel-like taste.
How do I choose the right lime for a Caipirinha?
For the best flavor, choose fresh, ripe limes that are heavy for their size and have thin, smooth skin. Avoid limes that are hard, dry, or have blemishes on the skin.
Do I need to strain the cocktail?
No, you do not need to strain a Caipirinha. The lime wedges and pulp are part of the cocktail’s texture and flavor. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the cocktail before serving.
What can I use to muddle the lime and sugar if I don’t have a muddler?
If you don’t have a muddler, you can use a wooden spoon or the end of a rolling pin to gently mash the lime and sugar together. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can make the drink bitter.
Caipirinha
The Caipirinha (also known as the "Country Girl") is the most famous drink in Brazil. It is made with Brazilian sucrose spirit (also called Brazilian rum), combined with lime juice, sugar and crushed ice. Brazilian rum is the national drink of Brazil, which has been around for more than 400 years and is one of the five most famous drinks in the world.
Ingredients
- ½ lime, quartered
- 2 teaspoons of white sugar
- 1½ oz cachaca
- 1 cup of ice cubes
Instructions
Add the lime cubes and sugar in a shaker, crush and mix with a spoon. Pour in the cachaça and a generous amount of crushed ice. Shake well and pour into a classic glass. Garnish with lime wedge and mint leaves.
