🇵🇹 Portugal · Drinks
Café com Cheirinho
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇵🇹 PTLiterally translating to 'Coffee with a little scent', this is a beloved Portuguese way to finish a hearty lunch. A strong espresso is spiked with a splash of brandy or aguardente, creating a warming, digestive pick-me-up.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Brew a fresh, intense 30ml espresso shot into a pre-heated small coffee cup.
- 2
Immediately add 1 teaspoon of sugar and stir until it completely dissolves.
- 3
Pour 10ml of aguardente (brandy) directly into the hot coffee.
- 4
Take a small strip of lemon peel, twisting it slightly over the cup to release essential oils.
- 5
Place the peel into the cup and let it steep for 30 seconds to infuse the aroma.
- 6
Serve immediately while the coffee is piping hot.
- 7
Sip slowly to enjoy the marriage of the rich caffeine and the warming spirit.
- 8
Tip: For the best experience, use a high-quality, aged aguardente to ensure a smooth finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't have aguardente?+
You can use any high-quality brandy, cognac, or even a marc de Bourgogne.
Is it better to add the alcohol before or after?+
Adding it after the sugar allows the heat of the coffee to slightly mellow the sharpness of the alcohol.
Can I have it without sugar?+
Yes, although the sugar is traditional as it helps balance the intensity of the spirit and the espresso.
Should I keep the lemon peel in?+
It is optional, but leaving it in for the duration of the drink adds a wonderful, subtle citrus complexity.
🇵🇹 PTMundo Match
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