Beirão typically refers to a type of liqueur from Portugal known as Licor Beirão. It is a popular alcoholic beverage in Portugal and is made from a secret blend of herbs, aromatic plants, and seeds, which are then mixed with high-quality spirit, water, and sugar.
Licor Beirão has a unique flavor and aroma that is both sweet and slightly bitter, with notes of honey, cinnamon, and vanilla. It is often consumed as an after-dinner drink or used as a mixer in cocktails.
Beirão can also refer to the region of Beira in central Portugal, which is known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional architecture, and delicious food and wine.
About Licor Beirão
Origin: Licor Beirão originated in Portugal in the early 20th century, when a pharmacist named José Carranca Redondo began experimenting with different herbs and spices to create a unique liqueur. The recipe was passed down through his family, and today Licor Beirão is still made according to the original secret formula.
Ingredients: The exact recipe for Licor Beirão is a closely guarded secret, but it is known to include a blend of herbs, aromatic plants, and seeds, as well as high-quality spirit, water, and sugar. Some of the ingredients commonly associated with Beirão include cinnamon, vanilla, anise, and honey.
Flavor and Proof: Licor Beirão has a unique flavor that is both sweet and slightly bitter, with notes of honey, cinnamon, and vanilla. It has a smooth, velvety texture and a moderate alcohol content, usually around 22% to 25% alcohol by volume (ABV).
Usage and Serving: Licor Beirão is often consumed as an after-dinner drink or used as a mixer in cocktails. It is also sometimes enjoyed over ice or served as a digestif to aid in digestion after a meal. It can be served neat or mixed with tonic water, soda, or fruit juice.
Production and Manufacturer: Licor Beirão is produced by the company J. Carranca Redondo, Lda., which is based in Lousã, Portugal. The production process is still carried out according to the original recipe and involves infusing the herbs and spices in high-quality spirit for a period of time, then blending and filtering the resulting mixture.
Variations: There are no major variations of Licor Beirão, but the company has released a limited edition version of the liqueur that is aged in oak barrels for a richer, smoother flavor. Additionally, Licor Beirão has inspired a range of cocktails, some of which incorporate other ingredients such as lemon juice or bitters.
Licor Beirão is a versatile liqueur that can be mixed with various beverages and used in cooking. Here are a few options:
- Carbonated beverages: Licor Beirão can be mixed with tonic water, soda water, or ginger beer for a refreshing and easy drink.
- Juices: Mix Licor Beirão with orange juice, pineapple juice, or cranberry juice for a fruity and flavorful drink.
- Tea: Add Licor Beirão to hot or iced tea for a unique and warming drink.
- Coffee: Mix Licor Beirão with espresso or coffee for a boozy twist on your morning caffeine fix.
- Cream or Milk: Licor Beirão can be added to cream or milk to make a sweet and creamy drink. It can also be used in desserts like ice cream, cakes, and custards.
- Chocolate: Mix Licor Beirão with hot chocolate or chocolate milk for a decadent and warming drink.
- Fruit: Muddle fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries with Licor Beirão for a fruity and boozy drink.
Licor Beirão is a versatile liqueur with a slightly sweet and herbal flavor that can complement a variety of foods. Here are some food pairings to consider:
- Cheese: Licor Beirão can be paired with a range of cheeses such as creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or tangy goat cheese.
- Chocolate: The slightly sweet and herbal notes of Licor Beirão pair well with chocolate desserts like brownies, chocolate cake, or chocolate truffles.
- Fruits: Pair Licor Beirão with fresh or dried fruits like figs, dates, oranges, or strawberries for a refreshing and fruity dessert.
- Nuts: The nutty flavor of Licor Beirão can be paired with nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios for a tasty and satisfying snack.
- Seafood: Licor Beirão’s herbal flavor can be paired with seafood dishes like shrimp, scallops, or grilled fish for a unique and flavorful meal.
- Grilled meats: Licor Beirão can be used as a marinade or glaze for grilled meats like pork chops, chicken, or beef.
- Spicy dishes: Licor Beirão can balance the heat of spicy dishes like curries or chili, adding a sweet and herbal note to the dish.
Note: Always drink and consume food responsibly and in moderation.
Licor Beirão Cocktails Recipes
Beirão Tónico
- 1.5 oz Licor Beirão
- Tonic water
- Ice
- Lemon or lime wedge
Fill a highball glass with ice. Pour in the Licor Beirão and top with tonic water. Squeeze in a lemon or lime wedge and stir gently.
Beirão Sour
- 2 oz Licor Beirão
- 0.75 oz lemon juice
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Ice
Combine all ingredients in a shaker and shake vigorously without ice for about 10 seconds. Add ice and shake again until well-chilled. Strain into a glass and garnish with a lemon wheel.
Beirão Colada
- 1 oz Licor Beirão
- 1 oz coconut cream
- 2 oz pineapple juice
- Pineapple wedge or cherry (optional)
- Ice
Combine the Licor Beirão, coconut cream, and pineapple juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a pineapple wedge or cherry, if desired.
Beirão Smash
- 2 oz Licor Beirão
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1 oz fresh orange juice
- 0.5 oz honey syrup
- 6-8 mint leaves
- Club soda
- Ice
In a shaker, muddle the mint leaves with the honey syrup. Add the Licor Beirão, lemon juice, and orange juice, along with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with club soda and garnish with a mint sprig and orange slice.
Beirão Spritz
- 2 oz Licor Beirão
- 1 oz Aperol
- 3 oz Prosecco
- 2 oz soda water
- Orange peel
- Ice
Fill a wine glass with ice. Add the Licor Beirão and Aperol, then top with Prosecco and soda water. Stir gently and garnish with an orange peel.
Beirão Flip
- 2 oz Licor Beirão
- 1 oz dark rum
- 1 whole egg
- 0.5 oz simple syrup
- Nutmeg
- Ice
Combine all ingredients in a shaker without ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds. Add ice and shake again until well-chilled. Strain into a glass and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top.