Cola de Mono: A Sweet Chilean Delight
Cola de Mono, or “Monkey’s Tail,” is a traditional Chilean drink that beautifully marries coffee and alcohol, often enjoyed during the festive season or special gatherings. This rich and creamy concoction, with its warm spices and hint of citrus, is sure to please any palate. Perfectly served cold, this beverage can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for entertaining. Follow this delightful recipe to create a batch of Cola de Mono that will surely impress your friends and family.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Liquid milk | 1 liter |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
| Instant coffee powder | 3 teaspoons |
| Aguardiente (Chilean alcoholic spirit) | 1 cup (240 ml) |
| Whole cloves | 5 pieces |
| Orange peel (for zest) | 1 piece |
| Ground nutmeg | A pinch |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cinnamon sticks | 2 sticks |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Element | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 150-200 |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 70mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 22g |
| Protein | 2g |
Instructions
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a saucepan, combine the liquid milk, granulated sugar, whole cloves, orange peel, ground nutmeg, and cinnamon sticks. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved. |
| 2 | In a separate cup, dissolve the 3 teaspoons of instant coffee with a small amount of hot water. Set aside for later use. |
| 3 | Once the milk mixture begins to boil, turn off the heat and add the dissolved coffee and vanilla extract. Stir gently to combine. |
| 4 | Allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature, letting the flavors meld beautifully. |
| 5 | Once cooled, add the aguardiente to the milk and coffee mixture, stirring gently to incorporate. |
| 6 | Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the solids, ensuring a smooth beverage. |
| 7 | Pour the Cola de Mono into bottles or jars and refrigerate until chilled. |
| 8 | Serve cold over ice for a refreshing treat, and enjoy this deliciously spiced drink with friends and family! |
Tips for the Perfect Cola de Mono
- Spice it Up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a little more cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.
- Coffee Choice: Use your favorite instant coffee brand for a personal touch. A richer coffee will enhance the overall flavor of the drink.
- Serving Suggestion: For a festive touch, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top or an orange slice on the rim of your glass.
Cola de Mono is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful way to share a piece of Chilean culture with those you love. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, this recipe will surely warm your heart and your spirits. Enjoy this unique beverage, and let the flavors of Chile come alive in every sip!
