Curacao

Curacao is an orange-flavored liqueur made from the laraha citrus fruit. Cultivated on the island of Curacao, the fruit’s dried peels are used to give the liqueur its signature flavor.

Similar to the more recognizable orange, the lahara found its way to the island via Spanish explorers. The explorers brought the Valencia orange to the island, not knowing that Curacao’s arid climate and nutrient-poor soil were not suitable to the fruit’s cultivation. The result was a small, bitter fruit that didn’t resemble the Valencia at all. However, the fruit’s peel managed to maintain the Valencia’s essence.

Eventually the trees were bred to create what is now known as the lahara. The fruit was still quite bitter and inedible, but the peel would prove to be the perfect ingredient for creating Curacao liqueur.

It was in the 19th century that the Senior family would develop and market the liqueur for the first time. The family, who were of Portuguese and Spanish descent, found a way to use the dried peels to create the liqueur.

The family discovered that drying the peels brought out their natural oils and flavor. They then soaked the dried peels for several days in alcohol, removed the aromatic peels after the process was complete, and added a blend of spices to create the liqueur that is used in a wide variety of drink recipes today.

Curacao is a colorless liqueur that is sometimes referred to as White Curacao. However, there are many different colors and flavors available depending on the brand. While all curacaos have a distinctive orange flavor, others flavorings can be added, such as chocolate and coffee. And, to make each brand more unique, some manufacturers will add coloring to help identify the Curacao’s flavor.

The most popular brand of Curacao is Blue Curacao.

Blue Curacao is a bar staple and is also called for as an ingredient in many cocktail recipes, especially those that are known for their distinctive blue color.

The following are among the favorites that are created using blue Curacao:

Nothing makes a margarita stand out more than the addition of Blue Curacao. Called the Blue Margarita for obvious reasons, the favorite tequila-based beverage uses Blue Curacao and lime juice to make it even better than the original.

Blue Hawaii isn’t just an Elvis Presley movie. It’s also a fun, tropical cocktail made with run, pineapple juice, Blue Curacao, and sweet and sour mix. Some bartenders may also add vodka to give the drink and extra kick.

One zombie you don’t have to be afraid of is the cocktail. To make a Zombie, add various fruit juices to both dark and white rum, brandy, and Blue Curacao. The result is a sweet drink with a flavor like nothing you’ve ever had before.

A sweet choice on a warm day is the Bahama Mama. Blue Curacao is combined with spiced rum, pineapple juice, sweet and sour mix, and soda to make a sweet, yet spicy cocktail.

Browse all 44 Curacao Drink Recipes