What is Aguardiente?
In Spanish Aguardiente means firewater but Aguardiente is a Spanish and mexican alcohol made from sugarcane or fruit. It is mostly drunk in Colombia, Ecuador, and other Latin American countries. In each country, this alcoholic wine has a different flavor and different alcohol percentages around about 29% to 50%.
History of Aguardiente
The history of this wine is tropical. Aguardiente’s history came from the early colonial period in Latin America. Spanish colonizers brought making techniques to America and locals Adopted customized techniques and made this wine by making Spanish colonizers’ techniques and their favorite recipes.
On the other side, Colombians made Aguardiente with sugarcane and anise. These things give it a different flavor. Ecuadorian people made this wine from fruits like sugarcane or even figs that’s why it has a sweeter and fruitier flavor.
Aguardiente in Culture
This wine is A Symbol of Celebration in each culture of each country. People drink it at festivals like Christmas and weddings but some people drink it at funerals.
Culinary Uses
Beyond being the spirit on its own, aguardiente is used in many cocktails and in a variety of culinary preparations. Its characteristic flavor can be used in lieu of other spirits to add an interesting twist to drinks like a mojito or piña colada. The spirit is also added to marinades and sauces, where it deepens flavors.
Let’s make this drink at home
What ingredients we need
Base Spirit
- 750 ml of high-proof clear alcohol (such as vodka or neutral grain spirit)
Flavorings
- 1-2 tablespoons of anise seeds (or 1-2 anise star pods)
- Optional: other botanicals like cinnamon sticks or cloves for added flavor
Fruits
- 1 cup of sliced fruits (such as orange, lemon, or even pineapple)
- Alternatively, you can use fruit-based spirits like aguardiente if available.
Sugar
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
Water
- About 2 cups of water (to dilute if desired)
How to make
Infusion
- In a clean glass jar, combine the high proof alcohol with the anise seeds and any additional flavorings you fruit.
- Add the slices of fruits in the jar.
- Screw down the lid of the jar tightly, and let it sit in a cool place for a time period of about 1 – 2 weeks. Shake the jar lightly every couple of days to help with the infusion process.
Sweetening
- Strain the liquid after infusing for the required time through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to a clean bottle. Discard the solids.
- Add sugar to the liquid, and stir until sugar is fully dissolved. Suit your taste with the amount of sugar.
Optional
- If the infusion is too strong, it can always be watered down. Add a bit of water, starting with about a cup to taste and add more, as needed.
Conclusion
It embodies the spirit of Latin American culture, celebrating community and tradition. Whether enjoyed neat, mixed in cocktails, or incorporated into culinary creations. Aguardiente offers a rich and flavorful experience. So the next time you’re looking to elevate your social gathering, consider introducing this vibrant spirit to your guests. Cheers to tradition, flavor, and unforgettable memories!
