Brazilian Quentao: Warm Cachaca Punch with Ginger, Cinnamon, Clove and Orange

In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar without stirring, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a deep amber caramel, about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch it closely at the end so it does not burn.

Serves 6

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 8 whole cloves
• 1 orange, sliced into rounds
• 1 lime, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups cachaca (or substitute white rum)
• Extra orange slices and cinnamon sticks, for serving

Instructions

1. In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar without stirring, swirling the pan occasionally, until it turns a deep amber caramel, about 5 to 7 minutes. Watch it closely at the end so it does not burn.
2. Carefully add the ginger, cinnamon sticks, cloves and the orange and lime slices. The caramel will seize and bubble; keep stirring for 1 minute until the fruit is coated.
3. Pour in the water and stir until the caramel dissolves completely. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes so the spices and citrus infuse the syrup.
4. Add the cachaca and heat gently for 3 to 5 minutes, keeping it just below a simmer so the alcohol does not boil away. Do not let it bubble.
5. Taste and adjust: add a little more sugar for a sweeter punch or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
6. Strain into small heatproof glasses or mugs, or ladle straight from the pot with a slice of fruit in each glass. Garnish with a fresh orange slice and a cinnamon stick.
7. Quentao, which simply means big hot one, is the drink Brazilians wrap their hands around during the cool nights of the Festa Junina harvest festivals, when bonfires burn and the whole town dances the quadrilha. In the south of the country the base is wine, but in Sao Paulo and Minas Gerais it is cachaca, the sugarcane spirit, infused with ginger and warming spices. The caramelized sugar start is what gives a proper quentao its depth and color. Serve it in small cups and keep the pot warm on the lowest flame; it is a drink meant for a crowd gathered against the chill.

Nutrition (estimated, per serving)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 5mg