Caipirinha

Caipirinha is the classic Brazilian cocktail made with Cachaça, a spirit made from the juice of cane sugar. It is the national drink of Brazil and is drunk by everyone from the favela dwellers to the playboys in the clubs of Ipanema.

It's best enjoyed in the evening sunshine on the beach, accompanied by some Bossa Nova or Samba, with a Churrasco braai on the go.

To make a Caipirinha:

  • 1 lime, quartered
  • 2 tsp fine sugar
  • 60ml cachaça
  • ice cubes

Quarter the lime lengthwise, then cut each quarter in half crosswise and place in an old-fashioned glass. Add the sugar, then muddle the lime pieces by pounding and pressing with a wooden spoon until sugar is dissolved into the lime juice. Fill the glass with ice and add the cachaça, stirring well. Drink!

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