Have you heard of licor cafe before?
If you haven’t traveled to the northwestern Spanish region of Galicia before, you probably haven’t. It’s a shame, though, because this coffee liquor is one of the most delicious alcoholic beverages that we’ve ever tried.
One of the main industries in Galicia is the production of wine, which is achieved by the process of the collection of millions of grapes from vineyards all over the area. The waste products from the wine-making process, such as grape skins and stems, are then used to make a local liquor which is known as orujo.
Orujo is the basis for the delicious coffee liquor which is so beloved in Galicia. The traditional preparation of this drink starts with a healthy dose of orujo, which is similar to brandy, which is left to sit in a glass container along with coffee beans, simple syrup, and spices such as cinnamon. Interestingly, orange and lemon skins are also added to this mixture, which is left to steep for around 2-3 weeks.
At the end of this period, the solid ingredients are strained out and licor cafe is left behind.
This delicious, pitch-black drink is rich and a great aperitif after a heavy dinner. It can also be combined with other alcoholic drinks such as Kahlua or cream spirits to make the alcoholic version of a coffee and milk drink.
Be sure to give coffee liquor a try if you ever find it!
