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Caipirinha, anyone?

Brazil's "national drink" is an international favorite!

By Bonnie Hamre, About.com

Brazilians have long enjoyed a cooling, refreshing summer drink made with tropical limes, sugar and the sugar cane brandy known as cachaça. pronounced ka-sha-sa. They call this traditional drink Caipirinha, pronounced ky-pee-reen-ya.

At one time, you had to travel to Brazil to sample it. It was tough work, lying on a beach under a sun umbrella, sipping a drink named little peasant girl, but someone had to do it.

Now, of course, you can order a caiprinha just about anywhere in the world. They are tremendously popular in Europe. Just for fun, I've included a sampling of recipes from various countries:

  • Brazil
  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal
  • Sweden
  • UK (made with Ginger wine)
  • USA

    There is a huge following in Europe, where this site allows readers to rate the drink.

    If you can't find cachaça in your area, you could try the following sources:

  • Pitú
  • Caipirinha Brazil
  • where to buy cachca
  • Internet Wines & Spirits
  • Caipirinha Express - bottled mixed drink
  • Caipirinha de Tangerina Or you could substitute white rum for a Caipiruma, white wine, or vodka for a Caipirosca. If the recipe needs further explanation you can check the illustrated instructions in How to prepare a Caipirinha.

    And if you need the right accessories, you'll find them at these sample sources:

  • Caipirinha Glasses (and pestle)
  • Caipirinha-Express.de Saúde!
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