Orange liqueur
Description
Orange liqueur, represented by Cointreau or Grand Marnier, has an intense, bright-spicy aroma of orange peel; Cointreau is usually clear and very pure in taste, while Grand Marnier has an amber color and additional notes of cognac or vanilla. The flavor is sweet-bitter, with a distinct bitterness from the peel and a long, citrus finish. The nutritional values mainly consist of calories from alcohol and sugar, making the liqueur quite energetic; it contains minimal amounts of nutrients, and any potential health benefits come solely from moderate alcohol consumption and trace antioxidants from the oils of orange peel. In the kitchen, orange liqueur pairs wonderfully with cocktails (e.g., Margarita, Cosmopolitan), desserts (sauces, creams, cakes), game or poultry dishes, and as an addition to coffee and for flambéing. It should be stored in a tightly sealed bottle in a cool, dark place, away from heat and light sources; due to its high alcohol content, it has a long shelf life, although once opened, it is best consumed within a few years to retain its fresh aromas.
