Mauby is one of those drinks that surprises you the first time you try it-rich, slightly bitter, a little sweet, and deeply refreshing. It’s a traditional Caribbean beverage made from the bark of the Mauby tree, simmered with warm spices and sweetened to taste. Some folks call it “Caribbean Root Beer,” but it’s really in a league of its own. I’ve made this drink countless times, and here’s what I’ve learned while perfecting it-don’t rush the simmering. Let those spices work their magic.
Mauby
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
Servings: About 6-8 glasses
Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 7 days
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 g) dried Mauby bark
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 5 whole cloves
– 1 star anise
– 1 strip of orange peel (just the outer zest, no white pith)
– 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
– 2 quarts (1.9 L) water
Equipment
– Large pot
– Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
– Pitcher or large jar for chilling
– Highball glass or mason jar for serving
Method
- In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, toss in the Mauby bark, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and orange peel.
- Turn the heat down and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. You’ll notice a warm, earthy aroma filling your kitchen-that’s when you know it’s doing its thing.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool completely. This takes about an hour. Cooling helps the flavors settle and mellow out.
- Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pitcher. Discard the solids.
- Stir in the sugar while the liquid is still slightly warm so it dissolves easily. Taste as you go-Mauby is traditionally sweet, but you can dial it back if you prefer a more bitter edge.
- Refrigerate until chilled, at least 1-2 hours. Serve cold over ice in a highball glass or mason jar.
Tips & Tricks
– Too bitter? Let it sit overnight-Mauby mellows out with time.
– Too sweet? Add a splash of soda water or a squeeze of lime.
– Sweetener swaps: Try honey, agave syrup, or coconut sugar for a different twist.
– Flavor boost: Add a sliver of fresh ginger or a few crushed allspice berries during simmering.
– Make-ahead: You can brew the concentrate up to 3 days in advance and sweeten it just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Mauby pairs beautifully with bold, flavorful foods. Here are a few favorites to enjoy alongside:
Spicy Dishes
Think jerk chicken, pepper shrimp, or a spicy curry. The sweet-bitter flavor of Mauby cools your palate and balances the heat.
Grilled Meats
Whether it’s BBQ ribs or grilled pork, Mauby adds a refreshing contrast to smoky, charred meats.
Fried Snacks
Fried plantains, saltfish fritters, or even French fries-Mauby cuts through the richness and leaves you ready for the next bite.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights on the porch. It’s the kind of drink that makes you slow down and savor the moment.
Variations
Mauby Fizz
– Add chilled soda water to your Mauby just before serving.
– Great for a lighter, more bubbly version.
Spiced Mauby
– Add fresh ginger slices and a tiny pinch of cayenne to the pot while simmering.
– Strain as usual. Adds a warm kick.
Mauby Sangria
– Mix chilled Mauby with sliced citrus fruits, apples, and a splash of dark rum.
– Let it chill for a few hours so the flavors meld. Serve over ice.
Common Questions
Can I make it without sugar?
Yes! Just skip the sugar or use a natural sweetener like stevia. The bark has its own earthy flavor, though it will be more bitter.
How long does it last?
Stored in a sealed container in the fridge, Mauby stays fresh for up to a week. Always give it a sniff and taste before serving.
Can I serve it warm?
Absolutely. Warm Mauby is especially nice on cooler days. Just heat gently on the stove-don’t boil again.
Is it healthy?
Mauby bark has been traditionally used to support digestion and circulation. Just keep an eye on the sugar content if you’re watching that.
Can kids drink it?
Yes, kids can enjoy Mauby, especially if you tone down the bitterness and sweetness. It’s caffeine-free and herbal.
What if I can’t find Mauby bark?
You can find it in Caribbean grocery stores or online. If it’s unavailable, you might try a mix of root beer bark herbs, but the flavor won’t be quite the same.
Final Thoughts
Mauby is more than just a drink-it’s a taste of Caribbean tradition in a glass. Whether you enjoy it sweet and chilled, fizzy and fun, or bold and spiced, it’s a recipe that invites creativity. Serve it at your next cookout, share it with friends, or just keep a pitcher in the fridge for whenever you need something refreshing with a little character.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to play around with the spices. Every island (and every family) has their own version-now you’ve got yours.
