🇵🇹 Portugal · Drinks
Ginjinha
By eatmundo · August 4, 2026
🇵🇹 PTGinjinha is a legendary Portuguese liqueur made by infusing ginja berries in aguardente with sugar and spices. This deep crimson elixir is traditionally served in a tiny shot glass, often with a boozy cherry inside.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Wash 500g of fresh sour cherries thoroughly and remove the stems.
- 2
Place the cherries, 500g of sugar, and 1 cinnamon stick in a clean, large glass jar.
- 3
Pour 1l of aguardente (or high-quality vodka as a substitute) over the mixture.
- 4
Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least 3 months.
- 5
Shake the jar gently every week to ensure the sugar fully dissolves.
- 6
After 3 months, strain the liquid into a clean bottle using a fine-mesh sieve.
- 7
Mix in 200ml of water to adjust the final proof to your preferred strength.
- 8
Serve in small glasses, adding one preserved cherry to each glass for authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot find aguardente?+
You can substitute it with a high-quality, unflavored vodka or a neutral grain spirit of at least 40% alcohol.
Can I eat the cherries immediately?+
The cherries need the full soaking period to absorb the alcohol and lose their tart bite.
How long does it keep?+
Stored in a cool, dark place, Ginjinha can last for over a year and actually improves with time.
Should I pit the cherries?+
No, leaving the pits inside is traditional as they impart a subtle, almond-like flavor to the liqueur.
🇵🇹 PTMundo Match
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