Bottoms Up: Mauby

Barbados is known for its fantastic people, amazing food and unforgettable (depending on how much you drink) rum punch! In fact, it’s on this vibrant little island that rum was invented! So what about our other classic Bajan drinks? Well, let’s take a look at another well know and well loved Barbadian drink. Mauby is a very unique beverage and is popular on most islands in the Caribbean. It has been reinterpreted in multiple ways and is now readily available in syrup and carbonated forms and sold commercially throughout the region. Have no mistake this unique beverage has an equally distinctive taste and it may take you some time to get used to its flavour. Mauby is a 100% natural beverage and is made from the tree bark of the Coulbrina tree. The bark is boiled in a small pot of water with a stick of spice for around 15 to 20 minutes, until the liquid becomes rich and brown. Additional spices can be added such as orange zest and bay leaf for added flavor. The liquid is then cooled and further diluted with water, brown sugar is then added to sweeten. The special key to making the perfect mauby straight from the bark, is the blending process done after the sugar has been perfectly mixed in. Grab two large jugs and pour the mixture from one mug to the next in a quick motion; this will cause your drink to form a nice airy foam on the surface, letting you know that your mauby is perfectly brewed and ready to drink! This beverage is very refreshing and perfect for hot summer days