Cafezinho

Brazil — everyday tradition

Brazil's answer to 'hello.' A tiny cup of strong, pre-sweetened coffee offered to every guest who walks through any door, whether it's a home, office, bank, or auto repair shop. The sugar is boiled with the water before the coffee grounds are added, creating a different sweetness than stirring it in after. Brewed through a cloth filter (coador) suspended over a cup.

How to make it

1. 1

   Bring water and sugar to a boil together — the sugar dissolves into the water before coffee is added.

2. 2

   Remove from heat and add finely ground coffee. Stir once.

3. 3

   Pour through a cloth filter (coador) or fine strainer into small cups.

4. 4

   Serve immediately in demitasse-sized cups — cafezinhos are small, typically 50–80ml.

5. 5

   No milk, no options. It's already sweet. Accept it as offered.