Discover the world of Surinamese drink
Discover the world of Surinamese drink
Are you curious about the unique flavors that Suriname has to offer in terms of drinks?
From traditional recipes to modern drinks
Suriname has a rich culture of beverages that is strongly influenced by different population groups. From the Spanish-Portuguese Jewish community in the 17th century to modern times, Surinamese drinks tell stories of generations. You’ll find everything from sweet syrups to powerful rums that have been distilled for centuries.
The Surinamese cuisine is not complete without characteristic Surinamese drinks such as Fernandes drinks and Presenti drinks. These brands offer authentic flavors such as Fernandes Cream Ginger, while the Maaza Passionfruit Drink is a popular fruity option. For spirits lovers, Black Cat rum is a household name, as well as Borgoe Grand Reserve 8 Years Gift Box for special occasions. Suriname Alcoholic Beverages range from Overproof Rum to milder varieties.
Traditionally, you will also find local syrups such as Lekker Bekkie Ginger Syrup, Lekker Bekkie Dawet Syrup and cola syrup that are perfect for making refreshing drinks. Pueblo Orgeade and Lekker Bekkie Rose Syrup are often used in grandmother’s recipe for festive moments. In addition to alcoholic options, there are refreshing choices such as Markoesa juice and ice cream soda that you will discover at local markets during your trip through Suriname.
Where to find and taste Surinamese drinks
Authentic flavors from local sugar plantations
The history of Surinamese drink is closely linked to the sugar industry. In the Commewijne district you will still find historical locations such as the local sugar plantation where traditional production methods are visible. The Marienburg Sugar Estate is a perfect destination to see how sugar was processed into syrups that formed the basis for many traditional drinks. These places tell the story of how Surinamese drinks were developed from the 16th century onwards by different cultures that settled on the land.
Cola and lemonade the Surinamese way
Nothing is as recognizable as Surinamese cola with its characteristic sweet taste. The Surinamese Cola Syrup is produced locally and forms the basis for many refreshing drinks. You can mix this syrup with hot water for a hot drink or with cold water for cooling. Cola Lemonade is a popular variant that you will find at almost every Surinamese eatery. These drinks are often served with De Surinaamse snacks and beverages, which makes a perfect combination for an authentic culinary experience during your visit.
Caribbean cocktails and rum specialties
For those who love mixed drinking, Suriname offers fascinating options such as the Dark ‘n Stormy, a classic Caribbean cocktail that you can find in many local bars. Suriname’s traditional white rum is often used as a base for refreshing blends. The Old Captain Caribbean White Rum is popular for cocktails, while the Borgoe Reserve Collection 12YO is loved by connoisseurs for its aged character. A soursop cocktail combines the unique fruit with rum for a tropical taste experience. The Alcohol percentage varies per product, so pay close attention to your choice.
Tropical fruit drinks and syrups
Fruit lovers will get their money’s worth with options like Red grape and Fruit punch that you can find at local shops. Made from dry leaves, Caribbean sorrel is a traditional drink with a unique sour taste that is mainly served during holidays. The syrups are available in a variety of flavors and are often mixed with water or used in desserts such as Surinamese bojo. You can also order these products online with free delivery from certain providers, useful if you want to taste at home before you travel.
Modern trends and special packaging
Nowadays you can also find modern drinks such as Bubble tea in Paramaribo, which combines the traditional flavors with contemporary presentations. For gifts, there are great options such as rum in gift boxes where you pay attention to Volume in Liters for the right amount. Many local products fall into the price range of €0 to €5, which makes them accessible to everyone. An Email Address is often requested when purchasing for confirmation and tracking of your order, especially with online platforms that offer combination deals.
Your drinking experience with Blue Bird
If you want to explore these authentic flavors during your trip, consider combining your visit with a food tour. Blue Bird Tours & Travel offers tours through Suriname where you not only experience nature and culture, but also get a taste of local specialties. This way, you can combine a visit to historic plantations with tastings of traditional beverages, complete with stories about their origins. This combination of traveling and tasting ensures a complete experience of Surinamese hospitality.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the history of Surinamese rum production?
The production of Surinamese rum dates back to the 16th century when the first sugar plantations were established. In the 17th century , the Spanish-Portuguese Jewish community played an important role in refining distillation techniques. Traditional distilleries used sugar cane from local sugar plantations to produce authentic rum. Today, you can still find historical sites in the Commewijne district where you can discover the origins of these drinks. The Marienburg Sugar Estate offers guided tours that show the entire production process, from sugar cane to distilled rum.
What traditional recipes are used for Surinamese syrups?
Many Surinamese syrups are based on grandmother’s recipe that has been passed down through generations. Traditional recipes combine local ingredients with techniques from different cultures. The Lekker Bekkie Rose Syrup uses rose petals for a delicate floral taste, ideal for festive occasions. Pueblo Orgeade is made from almonds and is perfect for refreshing drinks. These syrups are often served with Surinamese bojo, a traditional dessert. You can mix them with hot water for hot drinks or cold water for cooling on tropical days.
Where can I find authentic Presenti drinks?
Presenti drinks are available at local stores in Paramaribo and at specialized Surinamese supermarkets. These authentic drinks are part of the Surinamese snacks and drinks culture and are often served with traditional meals. Many online retailers offer free delivery for orders over a certain amount. When ordering, an Email Address is usually requested for order confirmation. The products usually fall in the affordable price range of €0 to €5, making them accessible to anyone who wants to explore Surinamese flavors.
What are the most popular Fernandes drink varieties?
In addition to the well-known Fernandes Cream Ginger , this brand offers various Surinamese drinks that are loved by locals. Cola Lemonade is a popular refreshing option that pairs perfectly with Surinamese dishes. The range also includes Red grape and Fruit punch variants that combine tropical flavors. These drinks reflect authentic flavors from Surinamese cuisine and are perfect for hot days. You can find them at almost every restaurant and café in Suriname, often served ice cold as an ideal accompaniment to local snacks and main courses.
How do I prepare a traditional Caribbean sorrel drink?
For Caribbean sorrel , you need dry leaves of the sorrel plant that you soak in hot water. This traditional drink has a distinctive sour taste and deep red color. Many families add spices like cinnamon and ginger according to their grandmother’s recipe. The drink is often sweetened with sugar and served cold during festive occasions. Sorrel is especially popular around the holidays and fits perfectly with Surinamese bojo. You can buy the dried ingredients at local markets or specialized stores that sell Surinamese beverages .
Which rum is suitable for a soursop cocktail?
For an authentic soursop cocktail , traditional Suriname’s traditional white rum is used because of its neutral taste that combines well with the fruity soursop. Old Captain Caribbean White Rum is a popular choice with bartenders because it doesn’t overpower the tropical flavors. Pay attention to the Alcohol percentage when mixing the cocktail, especially when using Overproof Rum which is more potent. The Bodegas Papiamento Rum also offers a good balance of character and blending. Pair with fresh soursop juice and ice cream soda for a creamy variation that is both refreshing and unique.
What is the difference between different Lekker Bekkie syrups?
The Lekker Bekkie range offers various flavours for different purposes. Lekker Bekkie Ginger Syrup has a spicy heat that is perfect for digestive drinks, while Lekker Bekkie Dawet Syrup is sweeter and greener in color for desserts. The cola syrup variant is used to make Surinamese Cola by simply adding water. All variants are based on traditional recipes and reflect authentic flavors from Surinamese cuisine. These syrups usually have a Volume in Liters of 0.5 to 1 liter and are affordably priced.
Where can I find Maaza drinks during my trip?
Maaza Passionfruit Drink is a popular fruit drink that you can find at almost every supermarket and minimart in Suriname. This drink is often part of the range of Surinamese drinks alongside local brands. You can also order the product online with free delivery to select retailers before you travel. The drink usually falls into the €0 to €5 category, making it an affordable option. When purchasing online, an Email Address is often requested for order tracking. Markoesa juice is a local alternative with similar tropical flavor.
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