Caipirinha Recipe

Cocktail

1. 1

   Prepare the lime

   Wash the lime thoroughly. Cut off the ends, then cut the lime into 8 wedges (halve lengthwise, then each half into quarters). If you prefer a slightly less bitter drink, remove the white pith from the center segments before proceeding.

2. 2

   Muddle lime and sugar

   Place the lime wedges in a sturdy old-fashioned (rocks) glass. Sprinkle the 2 tsp granulated sugar evenly over the lime pieces. Using a muddler (or the handle of a wooden spoon), press and twist firmly 8–12 times to release the lime juice and essential oils from the peel while dissolving the sugar. Aim to crush the flesh but not pulverize the peel to avoid excess bitterness.

3. 3

   Add cachaça

   Pour 2 oz cachaça directly over the muddled lime and sugar. Give the mixture a gentle stir for 5–7 seconds to help dissolve remaining sugar and combine flavors.

4. 4

   Add ice and finish

   Fill the glass with crushed ice up to the rim (about 1 cup). Stir vigorously for about 10 seconds to chill and slightly dilute the drink, integrating the cachaça with the lime and sugar.

5. 5

   Garnish and serve

   Top with a lime wheel or wedge on the rim. Serve immediately with a short straw or without, allowing the drinker to stir occasionally as the ice melts.