Quentão

Quentão is a traditional Brazilian hot drink that is typically consumed during the Festa Junina, a popular festival that takes place in June. The name 'Quentão' is derived from the Portuguese word 'quente', which means 'hot'.

Ingredients

The main ingredients of Quentão include cachaça, a Brazilian spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice, sugar, water, and a variety of spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and clove. Some variations of the recipe may also include fruits like lime or pineapple.

Preparation

To prepare Quentão, the sugar is first caramelized in a pot. Then, the chopped ginger and the spices are added and sautéed until fragrant. The cachaça and water are then added to the pot and the mixture is brought to a boil. Once boiling, the heat is reduced and the mixture is left to simmer for about 20 minutes. The drink is then strained and served hot.

Cultural Significance

Quentão is often associated with the Festa Junina, a festival that celebrates the nativity of John the Baptist and the winter harvest in Brazil. The drink is traditionally served in ceramic mugs and is often accompanied by typical Festa Junina foods such as cornbread and peanut brittle.

Variations

While cachaça is the traditional spirit used in Quentão, it can also be made with other spirits such as vodka or rum. There are also non-alcoholic versions of the drink, where the cachaça is replaced with fruit juice or water.