Eleanor Nakama-Mitsunaga
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In 1974 a very unique cream liqueur was introduced in Ireland. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Baileys Original Irish Cream and there's no day like today to enjoy this luscious drink. The basics: Baileys, originally a blend of Irish whiskey, cream, sugar, vanilla and cocoa, was revolutionary in nature, the first liqueur to homogenize Irish whiskey with cream -- two products that are not normally compatible.
Through a special, top secret process and using no additives or preservatives, the R&A Bailey Co. revealed a drink that was immediately loved, although some considered it somewhat too original. It was initially just enjoyed over ice, but in 30 years a vast array of drinks and recipes has been spawned.
Today, more than 5.5 million gallons of milk are needed per year to produce the liqueur.
The drink is creamy tan, like coffee with a lot of cream added. It has a rather syrupy consistency with the mouth feel of a watered-down milk shake. The taste is very sweet with hints of chocolate, toffee and cinnamon. It is considered low in alcohol, about 15 percent.
Selecting: There are a number of cream liqueurs, but Baileys is considered the most popular. Baileys is generally sold in either 325 ml or 750 ml dark brown bottles.
Storing: Although they are made with cream, cream liqueurs do not need refrigeration because the alcohol acts as a preservative. But refrigeration is recommended after opening for longer storage. Baileys carries a "best before date" that should be observed. Baileys also recommends that the drink be consumed within six months of opening.
Use: Baileys can simply be enjoyed over ice or in a number of cocktail concoctions such as the popular mudslide and B-52 drinks.
Coffee also marries well with Baileys.
Through the years Baileys has also been incorporated in many dessert recipes such as ice creams, brownies, cheesecake, fudge, pies and crème brulees, just to name a few. Check out the Web site, www.Baileys.com, for a number of dessert recipes.
Where to buy: Baileys Original Irish Cream is widely available where liquor is sold. It is rather pricey at $8 to $15 a bottle depending on the size, but St. Patrick's week is good for finding a bottle on sale.
Eleanor Nakama-Mitsunaga is
a free-lance food writer. Contact her
online through features@starbulletin.com
