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The classic Galician cocktail used to ward off evil spirits is called *queimada*. This unique and dramatic drink has deep roots in Galician folklore and is especially popular on special occasions, such as *Noite de San Xoán* (Saint John’s Night) and other celebrations in northwestern Spain. The drink combines aguardiente, a strong spirit, with sugar, lemon zest, coffee beans, and sometimes herbs. The ritual of making *queimada* includes reciting an incantation to protect against evil spirits, often accompanied by flames that dance atop the brew.
### Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare *queimada*:
– **Aguardiente**: This is the primary ingredient. It’s a potent spirit often made from grapes, similar to brandy, that gives *queimada* its strong, fiery base. If you can’t find evil spirits Galician aguardiente, look for a high-proof, clear spirit as a substitute.
– **Sugar**: Granulated sugar is used to add sweetness and caramelizes when set aflame.
– **Lemon or Orange Peel**: Citrus peels add aroma and a hint of zest, balancing out the strong flavor of the aguardiente.
– **Whole Coffee Beans**: Adds depth to the flavor and enhances the aroma.
– **Optional Spices or Herbs**: Some recipes include a dash of evil spirits cinnamon, cloves, or other spices for additional warmth.
### The Ritual of Preparation evil spirits
1. **Mix Ingredients**: In a clay or heatproof bowl, combine aguardiente, sugar, lemon or orange peel, and coffee beans.
2. **Flambé**: Before lighting, scoop a bit of sugar and aguardiente in a ladle, light it, and carefully pour it back into the mixture to ignite the entire bowl. The flames are an essential part of the ritual, as they’re believed to drive away negative energies.
3. **Recite the Incantation**: As the flames burn, the *conxuro evil spirits da queimada*, or *queimada* spell, is traditionally recited. This poetic incantation, rooted in Galician folklore, invokes spirits of the forest and sea to cleanse and protect everyone present from evil spirits.
4. **Serve**: Once the flames have died down and the sugar has melted into the drink, serve it warm.
The combination of the ritual, the flames, and the potent aguardiente make *queimada* both an impressive and symbolic experience. The drink is associated with evil spirits protecting against negativity, celebrating community, and honoring ancient Galician customs.
To learn more about *queimada*, its history, and find a complete recipe, check resources on Galician culture or culinary sites dedicated to Spanish traditions.
The classic Galician cocktail known as *queimada* is steeped in tradition and folklore, celebrated not only for its unique flavor but also for its cultural significance. Originating from the Galicia region in northwestern Spain, *queimada* is made from aguardiente, a potent spirit distilled from grapes, and is traditionally consumed during festive occasions, especially on *Noite de San Xoán* (Saint John’s Night) on June 23rd.
### Ingredients of Queimada
To prepare *queimada*, you will need the following ingredients:
– **Aguardiente**: This is the main component of *queimada*. It’s a high-proof spirit that can range from 40% to over 60% alcohol by volume. In Galicia, aguardiente is often homemade and has a distinctive flavor that can vary based on the distillation process.
– **Sugar**: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to balance the strong alcohol content and is crucial for the flambéing process.
– **Citrus Peel**: Lemon or orange peel is used for flavoring, contributing essential oils and a refreshing aroma that enhances the overall taste of the drink.
– **Coffee Beans**: Whole coffee beans are sometimes included, providing an additional layer of flavor and complexity.
– **Optional Herbs/Spices**: Ingredients like cinnamon or cloves can be added for extra warmth and depth, though this is not always traditional.
### The Ritual of Making Queimada
The preparation of *queimada* is as much about the ritual as it is about the drink itself.
1. **Combine Ingredients**: In a clay pot or heatproof bowl, mix the aguardiente, sugar, citrus peel, and coffee beans. The clay vessel is significant as it helps retain heat and adds to the rustic charm of the drink.
2. **Ignite the Mixture**: The most captivating part of preparing *queimada* is the flambé. To ignite it safely, take a small amount of sugar and a splash of aguardiente in a ladle, ignite it, and pour it back into the main mixture. The flames symbolize the cleansing of evil spirits and the transformation of the drink.
3. **Recite the Incantation**: As the drink is prepared, it is customary to recite the *conxuro da queimada*, an incantation intended to ward off evil spirits. This poetic spell is part of the ritual and adds to the atmosphere of the occasion. It typically invokes spirits of the natural world, seeking protection and blessing for those present.
4. **Serve Warm**: Once the flames have died down and the sugar has dissolved, the *queimada* is ready to be served. Traditionally, it is consumed warm, often shared among friends and family during gatherings or celebrations.
### Conclusion
In summary, *queimada* is a classic Galician cocktail that combines strong spirit, sweetness, and aromatic flavors, all while embodying rich cultural traditions. It serves as a delightful beverage and a meaningful ritual, drawing people together to celebrate and ward off evil spirits. Whether enjoyed at a festival, a family gathering, or a quiet evening at home, *queimada* is a drink that carries with it the spirit of Galicia and its people.
For those interested in learning more about the origins, preparation, and variations of *queimada*, check out [Viva Galicia](https://www.vivagalicia.com) and [Spanish Sabores](https://spanishsabores.com) for deeper insights into this captivating tradition.
