AS x Brazilian Boogie

Ingredients

• 1/2 lime
• 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 teaspoons caster or superfine sugar (to taste)
• 2 ounces cachaça
• Lime wheel (for garnish)

Arguably the most famous cocktail in all South America, the “caipirinha” is Brazil’s national drink and a summer classic. Even though everyone has its own way of doing it, the basic caipirinha recipe is uniquely simple (sometimes the simple things are the best) and requires just 3 ingredients – cachaça, lime and sugar.

Start by cutting the lime into small wedges – half a lime per glass is typically the measure used. Combine with the sugar on an old-fashioned glass and muddle well. Make sure you release as much juice from the wedges as possible, mixing it with the sugar to create the syrup – experts say caster or superfine sugar tends to be better for cocktails, because the finer crystals dissolve more easily. Top the glass with cachaça and stir well, after which you should fill the glass with ice (small cubes or crushed, depending on your preference) and garnish with a slice of lime (optional).

Ah, and make sure you drink it while listening to AS x Brazilian Boogie, the perfect combination for the BBQs and parties expected over the coming months. From old school mammoths Caetano Veloso, Chico Buarque, Tim Maia or Novos Baianos, to the more recent likes of Seu Jorge, Marcelo D2 and Gabriel o Pensador, this summer do yourself a favour and let Brazil take over.