Isa’s Cola de Mono

Jun 04, 2023June 4, 20230 2

Isa's Cola de Mono - A Warm and Spicy Chilean Christmas Drink

by The Chefin Beverage

Prep

10 min

Cook

15 min

Ready In

25 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

264

Sugar

32g

Fat

Isa's Cola de Mono, or Monkey's Tail, is a traditional Chilean Christmas drink that has been enjoyed for decades by families and friends alike. The warm and spicy drink is perfect for cold winter nights, and the fragrant aroma of the spices creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This drink is typically shared among loved ones during holiday gatherings, served in mugs and garnished with cinnamon sticks. While the recipe can vary slightly depending on the region, the core ingredients of cloves, cinnamon, milk, sugar, and coffee remain the same.

Instructions

1.	Crush 20 cloves and 5 cinnamon sticks in a mortar and pestle, then place in a saucepan with 1 cup of water.
2.	Bring the mixture to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
3.	In a separate large pot, heat 1 gallon of cold milk over medium heat until just bubbling.
4.	Add the spice mixture to the milk, stirring continuously.
5.	Stir in 1/4 cup of instant coffee granules and 1 cup of white sugar until fully combined.
6.	For an optional vanilla flavor, add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to the pot.
7.	If desired, add 1 cup of pisco, white rum, brandy, or other lightly-flavored liquor and stir to combine.
8.	Serve hot in mugs, garnished with a cinnamon stick if desired.

PROS

Isa’s Cola de Mono is a warm and spicy Christmas drink that is perfect for holiday gatherings.

The fragrant blend of cloves and cinnamon creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

The drink is creamy and sweet, with a hint of coffee and liquor for a balanced flavor.

CONS

This drink is high in sugar and should be consumed in moderation.

The optional addition of liquor also adds additional calories and should be used responsibly.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While Cola de Mono is not a particularly healthy beverage choice, it can be enjoyed occasionally as a festive treat.
The spices used in the recipe, such as clove and cinnamon, have been linked to potential anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.

	20 whole cloves
	5 cinnamon sticks
	1 cup water
	1 gallon cold milk
	1/4 cup instant coffee granules
	1 cup white sugar
	1 tablespoon vanilla extract ( optional )
	1 cup pisco , white rum , brandy , or other lightly-flavored liquor ( optional )