Orange liqueur (Cointreau or other)

Description

Orange liqueur (Cointreau or another) is a clear, often slightly amber drink with an intense, pure aroma of orange peel that combines sweet and bitter notes. The taste is distinctly citrusy, concentrated, with a noticeable alcoholic sharpness and a smooth, slightly syrupy sweetness, usually around 30–40% alcohol. Nutritionally, it is a product rich in calories from sugar and alcohol (approximately 80–120 kcal in 30 ml), with a small amount of vitamins or minerals; it contains aromatic compounds and flavonoids from citrus peels, but health benefits are limited and moderate consumption is recommended. In the kitchen, orange liqueur is a staple for cocktails (e.g., Margarita, Cosmopolitan, Sidecar), wonderfully enhances desserts, creams, sauces, toppings, marinades, and chocolate dishes, and is also suitable for flambéing. It should be stored in a tightly closed bottle in a cool, dark place; the high alcohol content prevents rapid spoilage, but the aroma may lose intensity over time.