Queimada

Queimada is a fiery Galician punch made with pomace brandy (orujo), sugar, coffee beans, and lemon zest. While it is mixed in a large bowl, the combination is set on fire, providing a spectacular drinking experience. The preparation starts by pouring orujo in a large clay bowl—invented in the 1950s by Tito Freire—then adding sugar, coffee beans, and lemon zest.

Some versions also include cinnamon and apples. The combination is then set alight, and while it is burning, the participants usually chant a spell in Gallego, which supposedly wards off evil spirits and other misfortunes. Although a popular legend says that queimada has Celtic origins, the truth is that it probably originated in the 1950s, while Mariano Marcos Abalo wrote in the accompanying chant in the 1960s.

Queimada is prepared at parties, on special occasions, and traditionally on Saint John's Eve, which coincides with June solstice and takes place on June 23. Queimada is poured in clay cups and should always be served warm.