Introduction: Discover the Popular Drinks of São Tomé and Príncipe
São Tomé and Príncipe, a small island country located off the western coast of Africa, is known for its rich cultural heritage and diverse cuisine. The country has a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather all year round. It’s no surprise that local beverages play a significant role in their lifestyle.
From coffee to beer, São Tomé and Príncipe has a wide variety of popular drinks to offer. A trip to this island nation wouldn’t be complete without trying out their unique blend of hot and cold beverages. Here are some of the most popular drinks that you should try on your visit to São Tomé and Príncipe.
Café Pilão: A Favorite Coffee Among Locals
Café Pilão is the most popular coffee in São Tomé and Príncipe. It’s a strong and rich coffee made by roasting beans in an iron pot, which creates a unique flavor. This coffee is typically served with sugar, but locals like to add a pinch of salt to it to bring out the flavor.
Café Pilão is not only a favorite drink among locals but also a significant part of the country’s culture and history. The coffee is named after the Pilão Grande mountain, which is where it originated. A cup of Café Pilão is perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break, and it’s a must-try for any coffee lover visiting São Tomé and Príncipe.
Cocoa Tea: Traditional Hot Beverage with a Twist
Cocoa tea is a traditional hot beverage made from cocoa beans. It’s a popular drink in São Tomé and Príncipe, especially during the colder months. The tea is made by boiling water and adding cocoa powder, cinnamon, and sugar. Some variations also include ginger, nutmeg, or vanilla for extra flavor.
Cocoa tea has a unique taste, different from your regular cup of hot chocolate. It’s a drink that will warm you up from the inside out, and it’s perfect for a cozy night in. The tea is also believed to have some health benefits, such as improving digestion and reducing stress levels. If you’re looking for a traditional drink with a twist, cocoa tea is a perfect choice.
Rosema: The National Beer of São Tomé and Príncipe
Rosema is the national beer of São Tomé and Príncipe. This light lager beer is made from malted barley, hops, and other natural ingredients. It has a mild flavor, making it a popular drink among locals and tourists. Rosema is brewed by the Companhia Cervejeira de São Tomé e Príncipe, a local brewery that also produces other popular drinks.
Rosema is available in most restaurants and bars in São Tomé and Príncipe, and it’s a perfect drink to have with a meal or to enjoy with friends. The beer is also exported to other countries, making it accessible to beer lovers worldwide.
Palm Wine: A Must-Try Fermented Beverage
Palm wine is a fermented drink made from the sap of palm trees. It’s a popular drink in many African countries, including São Tomé and Príncipe. The sap is collected from the tree, and it’s then fermented for a few hours to a few days, depending on the desired flavor.
Palm wine has a sweet and sour taste and a low alcohol content. It’s often served in coconut shells or calabash gourds, adding to its exotic appeal. Palm wine is a must-try for anyone visiting São Tomé and Príncipe, as it’s a drink that’s deeply ingrained in the country’s culture.
Discover the Exotic Flavors of Fruit Juices in São Tomé and Príncipe
São Tomé and Príncipe has an abundance of tropical fruits, which are used to make a variety of refreshing juices. Some of the popular fruits used to make juices include pineapple, mango, papaya, and passionfruit. These juices are typically made by blending the fruit with water and sugar, and they’re often served over ice.
Fruit juices are a perfect drink to have on a hot day in São Tomé and Príncipe. They are refreshing and full of flavor, making them a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. You can find fruit juices in most restaurants and street vendors throughout the country, so be sure to try out a few during your visit.
