Strawberry and Kumquat Caipirinha

A sharper and fruitier version of a Mojito the Caipirinha is  made with the South American rum Cachaca. Less sweet than its, Carribean cousin, Cachaca, is the star of this sweet an sour drink. The kumquats add an extra sour punch, while strawberry juice lends a sweet body to the Caipirinha.

I have to admit, I’ve actually never had Caipirinha until a few days ago when Russell of Endless Simmer requested a Caipirinha popsicle. That provided me the perfect excuse to buy. . .well, more booze. In comparing the classic Mojito vs Caipirnha, at first glance I wasn’t expecting a huge difference in taste. Wrong. Going forward given a choice between the two a Caipirinha is my favorite.

A few notes:

• This is a summer deviation from the classic Caipirinha.
• I skipped the simple syrup portion, as the strawberries were sweet enough. But if the strawberries in your area are not ripe and sweet try adding 2 oz of simple syrup.
• Variation: Replace the strawberries for peaches, kumquats for tangerines. As always taste as you mix.

Strawberry and Kumquat Caipirinha

Makes 3 servings

Ingredients:

• 7 oz strawberries (approximately 8-9 medium size)
• 2  oz kumquats
• Juice of half a lime
• 4 mint leaves
• 4 oz of Cachaca

Instructions:

1. Place strawberries, kumquats and juice of lime in a blender or food processor and process until pureed. Push mixture through a medium strainer. Return mixture to blender or food processor and add Cachaca and process to blend.
2. Pour mixture over ice and garnish with lime, kumquat slices and a mint sprig.