Carajillo

From WikiMD.com Medical Encyclopedia

Carajillo[edit | edit source]

Error creating thumbnail:
Café Carajillo

A carajillo is a hot coffee drink to which a hard liquor is added. It is a popular beverage in Spain and Latin American countries, with variations in preparation and ingredients depending on the region.

History[edit | edit source]

The origin of the carajillo is often attributed to Spanish soldiers in Cuba during the Spanish occupation. The soldiers would mix coffee with rum to give them "courage" ("coraje" in Spanish) before going into battle. Over time, this practice evolved into the drink known today as carajillo.

Preparation[edit | edit source]

The preparation of a carajillo can vary significantly depending on the region. In Spain, it is typically made by adding a shot of brandy, whiskey, or rum to a cup of espresso. The drink is sometimes flambéed to enhance the flavor and aroma of the alcohol.

In Mexico, a carajillo is often made with Licor 43, a sweet, vanilla-flavored liqueur, mixed with espresso. The drink is served over ice, making it a refreshing option in warmer climates.

Variations[edit | edit source]

There are several variations of the carajillo, each with its own unique twist:

  • Carajillo Quemado: In this version, the alcohol is flambéed before being mixed with the coffee, giving the drink a smoky flavor.
  • Carajillo de Ron: Made with rum, this variation is popular in the Caribbean and Latin America.
  • Carajillo de Anís: Uses anise-flavored liqueur, providing a distinct licorice taste.

Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]

The carajillo is more than just a drink; it is a cultural symbol in many Spanish-speaking countries. It is often enjoyed as a digestif after meals or as a pick-me-up during the day. The drink is associated with social gatherings and is a staple in many cafes and restaurants.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

Error creating thumbnail:
Carajillo

See Also[edit | edit source]


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD