The sweet temptation from Portugal: Almond liqueur from Amarguinha
Portugal is known for its picturesque coastlines, historic cities, and rich culinary tradition. Among the many delicacies this enchanting country has to offer, one very special spirit stands out: the almond liqueur of Amarguinha. This sweet temptation not only has a unique taste but also tells a fascinating story of craftsmanship and tradition.
A look into the past
Amarguinha's almond liqueur has its roots in the Algarve, a region in southern Portugal known for its almonds. The tradition of making almond liqueur dates back centuries. Originally, it was produced in small, family-run distilleries that passed their recipes down from generation to generation. This artisanal method remains a hallmark of Amarguinha today and contributes to the liqueur's uniqueness.
The taste of the South
Amarguinha is known for its distinctive flavor, which captures the essence of the Algarve. The liqueur seduces with an intense almond aroma balanced by subtle bitter notes. This balance between sweetness and bitterness makes Amarguinha a versatile drink that can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or as part of a cocktail.
Production and ingredients
The production of Amarguinha begins with the selection of the finest almonds from the Algarve. These are carefully ground and blended with water, sugar, and a special flavoring extract. The result is a rich, sweet liqueur made according to ancient recipes. Artisan production and high-quality ingredients are the key to Amarguinha's authentic taste.
Moments of enjoyment
Amarguinha almond liqueur can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Traditionally, it's served neat or over ice, which brings out the flavors best. However, in modern mixology, Amarguinha is also used in a variety of cocktails. A popular example is the "Amarguinha Sour," which combines the liqueur with lemon juice and a splash of soda water. This refreshing blend is perfect for warm summer days and adds a special touch to any occasion.
Great alternative mixing partners are often orange juice, pineapple juice or passion fruit , which in combination with ice cubes make great summer cocktails or long drinks.
A touch of Portugal for your home
Amarguinha isn't just a drink, it's a piece of Portuguese culture that you can enjoy in your own home. Whether as an aperitif before dinner, as a dessert accompaniment, or as the highlight of a party, Amarguinha's almond liqueur brings the sunny charm of the Algarve directly to you.
Amarguinha's almond liqueur is more than just a spirit. It's a testament to Portuguese craftsmanship and tradition, enticing the senses with its unique flavor. Whether you're a liqueur connoisseur or simply looking to try something new, Amarguinha is sure to delight you. Let yourself be tempted by this sweet Portuguese delight and enjoy a glass of pure happiness.
Fun fact: "Amarguinha" translates as "bitter little one," which is a diminutive of bitter.
(The slightly bitter note is perfectly matched to the sweetness of the liqueur and gives the liqueur that certain something.)
Two delicious recipes with almond liqueur from Amarguinha
Amarguinha's almond liqueur is a versatile liqueur that's perfect for a variety of drinks and desserts. Here are two delicious recipes that showcase this liqueur's unique flavor.
Recipe 1: Amarguinha Sour
The Amarguinha Sour is a refreshing cocktail that combines the sweetness and aroma of almond liqueur with the acidity of lemon juice. Perfect for warm summer days or as a pre-dinner aperitif.
Ingredients:
- 60 ml Amarguinha almond liqueur
- 30 ml fresh lemon juice
- 15 ml sugar syrup
- ice cubes
- Lemon slice or cocktail cherry for decoration
Preparation:
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
- Add the Amarguinha almond liqueur, lemon juice and sugar syrup to the shaker.
- Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15 seconds.
- Strain the contents of the shaker into a glass filled with ice.
- Garnish the cocktail with a lemon slice or a cocktail cherry.
- Enjoy the refreshing Amarguinha Sour!
Recipe 2: Almond Liqueur Crème Brûlée
This crème brûlée with a hint of Amarguinha almond liqueur is a delicate dessert creation that will delight your guests. The combination of the crispy caramel crust and the creamy, aromatic filling is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 500 ml cream
- 1 vanilla pod, cut lengthwise
- 5 egg yolks
- 100 g sugar
- 60 ml Amarguinha almond liqueur
- Brown sugar for caramelizing
Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 150°C.
- Place the cream and vanilla pod in a saucepan and heat over medium heat until just before boiling. Remove the pan from the heat and let the cream steep for about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar until pale and creamy.
- Remove the vanilla pod from the cream and stir in the Amarguinha almond liqueur.
- Slowly pour the cream into the egg yolk and sugar mixture, stirring constantly to prevent the egg yolk from curdling.
- Pour the mixture through a fine sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps.
- Divide the mixture between four ovenproof dishes.
- Place the molds in a deep baking dish and fill the dish with hot water so that the molds are half submerged in the water.
- Bake the crème brûlée for about 35-40 minutes, until the center of the cream wobbles slightly when you shake the pan.
- Remove the molds from the water bath and let them cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate them for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, sprinkle each crème brûlée with a thin layer of brown sugar and caramelize it with a kitchen torch until golden brown and crispy.
- Let the caramel crust cool and set for a few minutes before enjoying the dessert.
These two recipes demonstrate how versatile Amarguinha almond liqueur can be in the kitchen. Whether as a refreshing cocktail or as a sophisticated dessert – let yourself be enchanted by the delicate aromas of this Portuguese liqueur!
