Cha & Grogue

The Cape Verdean Cure You Didn’t Know You Needed

I’m writing this one from the couch, wrapped in a blanket, fighting off some cold-like symptoms, cough, low energy, sinus pressure, the usual suspects. If you’ve ever been under the weather in a Cape Verdean household, then you already know what’s coming:

Somebody’s mom is going to say, “Bo ta mesté un cha!”
(Translation: You need some tea!)

But this isn’t your average lemon ginger green tea situation. No sir. We’re talking about Cape Verdean cha, a warm, comforting tea traditionally brewed with lemons, honey, and sometimes herbs, passed down through generations to battle whatever bug life throws at you. And in true Cape Verdean fashion, we put our own twist on it…

Lemon + Honey + Fire + Grogue = Recovery mode, unlocked.

Grogue, the beloved Cape Verdean sugarcane rum, makes everything feel just a little better or at least helps you sleep like you just swam to Fogo and back.

Nero’s Cape Verdean “Cha com Grogue” Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lemon (cut into quarters)

• 2 tablespoons honey (more if you like it sweeter)

• 1.5 to 2 oz Cape Verdean Grogue (or white rum if you’re fresh out)

• 1 ½ cups water

Optional add-ins:

• Fresh mint

• Ginger slices

• A cinnamon stick for warmth

How to Make It:

1. Boil the water – Bring 1½ cups of water to a gentle boil in a small pot.

2. Add lemons & honey – Toss in the lemon quarters and stir in the honey. Let that simmer for 5–10 minutes until the lemons are softened and the water is infused.

3. (Optional) Add herbs – Mint or ginger go a long way if you want that spa-day feel.

4. Turn off the heat – Let the brew settle for a minute.

5. Add the Grogue – This is the part that clears sinuses and the soul. Add 1.5 to 2 oz of Grogue, depending on how bad you’re feeling… or how bold you’re feeling.

6. Strain & serve – Pour into your favorite mug, inhale the citrusy steam, and sip slowly like your grandma’s watching.

A Toast to Healing

This is comfort in a cup, Cape Verdean style. Whether you’re battling a bug or just need an excuse to sip something warm and boozy — cha com grouge gets the job done. And if you don’t feel better after a cup… well, at least you’ll care less.

Stay warm. Stay weird. Stay hydrated.

— From the quarantine corner at Nero’s Bar