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Boilo

A Puerto Rican spiced hot drink made with warming spices, coconut milk, evaporated milk, rum, and sugar for a comforting holiday beverage.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Puerto Rican
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 cups water
  • 4 cinnamon sticks
  • 8 whole cloves
  • 4 whole allspice berries
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger thinly sliced
  • 1 13.5 ounce can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 12 ounce can evaporated milk
  • 1 cup dark rum optional
  • 3 tablespoons sugar or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Large saucepan or pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Ladle
  • Mugs for serving
  • Fine-mesh strainer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Add 4 cups water, 4 cinnamon sticks, 8 whole cloves, 4 allspice berries, and 1 tablespoon thinly sliced fresh ginger to a large saucepan.
  2. Bring mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to infuse the spices.
  4. Slowly whisk in the coconut milk and evaporated milk over medium heat to prevent curdling, stirring constantly until smooth.
  5. Stir in the sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, and cook for 1 minute until the sugar dissolves.
  6. Add 1 cup dark rum, if using, and gently heat for 1 minute without bringing to a boil.
  7. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level, simmering for an additional 2 minutes if needed.
  8. Strain the boilo through a fine mesh strainer into a clean pot or bowl to remove the spices.
  9. Ladle the hot boilo into warmed mugs and serve immediately while steaming.

Notes

Boilo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.