Sunday, September 7, 2008

How to Make a Mamajuana by Enid Glasgow

Some fancy it, others resent its rather mysterious existence; Mamajuana, a drink with a strange consistency, is the Dominican Republic's beverage of choice and a requirement of all who visit, a right of passage if you will. This indigenous drink was long-touted as an aphrodisiac for men, but when the ingredients are listed off, it is easy for one to wonder how this cocktail could possibly arouse anything other than stomach cramps.

It's a blend of twigs, bark, herbs, rum, red wine, and honey. Maybe the alcohol could counter-balance the three misplace elements that seemingly belong in a bag of mulch instead of a drink? You'll only know when you visit the Dominican Republic and try it for yourself.

If you're not slated to spend some time in the country or one of its luxury Dominican Republic hotels, you can always make a DIY solution out of the problem and tackle it yourself. It may require a couple of batches to find your mix, but you'll never know right from wrong unless you sample it on vacation.

- Begin by soaking roots and twigs in rum, red wine, or both, for 3 to 14 days. - Discard the liquid, following, then refill with an equal amount of rum, red wine, and honey. - Note: You can opt to omit the red wine (if you prefer something a little more approachable) - Assign whatever proportions you desire and shake everything up.

More often than not, your first time will be a bit confusing, but once you find your perfect mixture, you'll be making Mamajuana's for your friends and family.

About the Author

Enid Glasgow is a travel writerwho enjoys traveling in the Americas and Caribbean. When visiting the Dominican Republic, she stays at Paradisus Palma Real, the exclusive Dominican Republic resort.

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