Published:
Jul 17th 2021
by 
Nutritionally reviewed by 
Last updated: Oct 18th 2025
Trinidad Mauby is a delightful infusion that combines the unique woody licorice flavor of Colubrina Elliptica bark with aromatic spices, creating a refreshing beverage perfect for hot days. This simple method of brewing allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a drink that can be enjoyed chilled over ice or spiked with rum for a festive twist. Ideal for gatherings or a relaxing afternoon, this local favorite offers a taste of Caribbean culture in every sip.
This recipe for Trinidad Mauby offers a unique blend of flavors that are both refreshing and aromatic, making it perfect for any occasion. It's easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy this delightful beverage chilled or as a festive cocktail. Versatile and rich in Caribbean culture, it's sure to impress your guests.
Key nutrients
- Antioxidants: from cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and ginger — may help protect cells from oxidative stress.
- Vitamin C: from dried orange peel — supports immune function and skin health.
- Phytonutrients: from Mauby bark, spices, and ginger — contribute to overall wellness and flavor complexity.
- Minerals: from spices and bay leaf — provide trace amounts of essential minerals like potassium and magnesium.
Why it matters
- Spices and citrus add natural compounds that may support general health.
- Homemade beverages allow you to control added sugar and ingredients.
- Enjoying a variety of herbs and spices can diversify your nutrient intake.
What to watch
- Added sugar — Brown sugar increases sweetness; use less or a substitute if limiting sugar intake.
Make it even better
- Use a natural sweetener like stevia or reduce brown sugar to lower added sugars.
- Add fresh citrus juice for extra vitamin C and a brighter flavor.
- Serve with fiber-rich snacks or meals for more balanced nutrition.
- Experiment with extra spices like cardamom for added phytonutrients.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
References
Best fit
- Vegan: Contains only plant-based ingredients and no animal products.
- Vegetarian: Free from meat, poultry, and seafood.
- Gluten Free: No wheat, barley, or rye used in this recipe.
- Lacto Vegetarian: No dairy, but fits as it contains no animal-derived ingredients.
Use with caution / avoid
- Added Sugar: Brown sugar increases carbohydrate content; limit for blood sugar management.
- High Potassium: Ginger and spices may add potassium; monitor if following a renal diet.
Helpful modifications
- Use a natural sweetener like stevia for a lower-sugar version.
- Reduce brown sugar or serve unsweetened to lower total sugars.
- Add fresh citrus juice for flavor without extra sugar.
- Serve with extra water or ice to dilute sweetness further.
Pair with: A fiber-rich green salad or a whole grains snack for a balanced snack or meal.
General nutrition information only; verify labels and consult a healthcare professional for personal advice.
No major allergens detected based on the listed ingredients. Always check labels for hidden allergens in sauces or blends.
Notes are based on the listed ingredients; always verify brand labels and local regulations. Swaps may require adjusting cook time and steps; the original recipe isn’t tailored to substitutions.
References
- FDA — Food Allergies - Used for reference on the US Big 9 allergens list.
Clean
- Wash your hands with soap and water before handling ingredients.
- Rinse all spices, ginger, and orange peel under running water before use.
- Sanitize all utensils, pans, and containers before starting this recipe.
Separate
- Keep raw ingredients and ready-to-drink Mauby separate to avoid cross-contamination.
- Use clean utensils for tasting or serving after brewing is complete.
Cook
- Boil the Mauby bark and spices in water to extract flavors and reduce microbes.
- Simmer as directed to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly heated.
Chill
- Cool Mauby concentrate to room temperature before refrigerating.
- Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Discard if you notice any off smells, cloudiness, or mold.
References
- CDC — Food Safety - General food safety guidelines and storage times.
- FDA — Food Safety in Your Kitchen - Guidance on cleaning, separating, cooking, and chilling foods.
- Mauby is a traditional Caribbean drink made from tree bark, giving it a distinct woody and slightly bitter flavor.
- Toasting the spices before brewing releases essential oils, deepening the flavor of the final drink.
- Mauby can be enjoyed as a non-alcoholic refreshment or spiked with rum for a festive twist.
- This beverage is often served chilled over ice, making it ideal for hot weather.
- Brown sugar adds a caramel note that balances the natural bitterness of the Mauby bark.
Name & origins
Mauby is a beloved Caribbean beverage, especially popular in Trinidad and Tobago, made from the bark of the Mauby tree.
Ingredient spotlight
- Mauby Bark: Lends a unique woody, licorice flavor and slight bitterness to the drink.
- Cinnamon: Adds aromatic warmth and subtle sweetness to the infusion.
- Ginger: Brings a spicy, zesty kick that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Brown Sugar: Sweetens and gives a rich, caramel-like depth to the beverage.
Technique tidbit
Toasting spices before simmering helps unlock their aromatic oils, infusing the drink with deeper, more complex flavors.
Before you start
- Gather all ingredients and tools for a smooth cooking process.
- Ensure your saucepan is clean and ready for use.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor; check their aroma.
During cooking
- Toast spices until fragrant, but avoid burning them.
- Watch for boiling bubbles before adding spices to water.
- Avoid oversteeping; it can make the drink too bitter.
Make-ahead & storage
- Prepare the concentrate ahead and refrigerate for up to a week.
- Serve chilled; add ice to refresh before serving.
Common mistakes
- Burning spices → Reduce heat while toasting to prevent this.
- Too much sugar → Start with less and adjust to taste gradually.
Serve with
- Lightly spiced rice or quinoa for a refreshing contrast.
- A crisp green salad with citrus dressing to enhance flavors.
- Chips or plantain crisps for a crunchy side.
Toppings & textures
- Fresh mint leaves for a cool, herby touch.
- A splash of lime juice for a zesty kick.
Occasions
- Perfect for summer gatherings or festive celebrations.
Substitutions
- If you lack Mauby Bark, use licorice root for a similar woody flavor.
- For a sugar-free option, substitute brown sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia.
Variations
- In some Caribbean regions, Mauby is made with additional spices like cardamom for a more complex flavor.
- Add fresh fruits like pineapple or mango for a tropical twist in this recipe.
Refrigerate
- Cool the Mauby concentrate to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container.
- Use within 5–7 days for the best flavor and freshness.
Freeze
- Freezing not recommended as it may alter the flavor and texture of the drink.
Reheat
- Reheat on the stove over low heat until steaming hot throughout.
- Add a splash of water if the concentrate thickens during reheating.
Repurpose ideas
- Use leftover concentrate to create a unique marinade for meats or tofu.
- Add to smoothies for a flavorful twist on your favorite recipes.
- Water: Essential for brewing and diluting the concentrate to create the final drink.
- Mauby Bark: Provides a unique woody licorice flavor that is the base of this recipe.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a sweet-spicy aroma to the infusion.
- Anise Seed: Contributes a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Star Anise: Offers a strong licorice flavor that complements the Mauby Bark.
- Cloves: Imparts a warm, spicy aroma and depth to the beverage.
- Fennel Seeds: Adds a mild sweetness and anise-like flavor to the mix.
- Nutmeg Powder: Provides a warm, nutty flavor that enriches the infusion.
- Bay Leaf: Contributes subtle herbal notes that enhance the complexity of flavors.
- Dried Orange Peel: Adds citrusy brightness and aroma to balance the spices.
- Ginger: Introduces a zesty, spicy kick that elevates the drink's freshness.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile by balancing sweetness and bitterness.
- Vanilla Essence: Adds a sweet, creamy note that rounds out the flavors in this recipe.
- Brown Sugar: Sweetens the drink while adding a rich, caramel-like flavor.
What can I use if I can't find Mauby Bark for this recipe?
If Mauby Bark is unavailable, you can substitute it with licorice root to achieve a similar woody flavor.
Can I make Trinidad Mauby ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Mauby concentrate ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a week for optimal flavor.
Is it possible to freeze the Trinidad Mauby concentrate?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the flavor and texture of the drink.
Time & Serves
Ingredients
1000 ml Water
12-15 pieces of Mauby Bark
3 Small Sticks of Cinnamon
2 teaspoons Anise Seed
3 whole Star Anise
3 whole Cloves
1 teaspoon Fennel Seeds
1/8 teaspoon Nutmeg Powder
1 Large Bay Leaf
2 3 inch pieces of Dried Orange Peel
15 oz Ginger thinly sliced lengthwise
Pinch of Salt
1 teaspoon Vanilla Essence
200-400 g Brown Sugar
3000-5000 ml Water
Instructions
In a small sauté pan, place the Mauby Bark, cinnamon sticks, anise seeds, star anise, whole cloves and fennel seeds, and toast over medium to high heat until the scent of the spices fills the air. Remove before it burns.
In a 3 quart saucepan, bring the 1000 ml of water to a boil.
Once the water is boiling, add the toasted spices, bay leaf, dried orange peel, ginger and pinch of salt. Boil for 5 minutes.
Bring the heat down to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
Turn off the heat completely, cover and allow to steep and brew until cool or overnight for a deeper flavor.
Once the mixture is cool, strain the liquid and discard the ingredients used in the brewing.
Add the vanilla essence to this liquid, and you have now made your Mauby Concentrate.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of concentrate to a glass of water, adding sugar to taste. Serve chilled or over ice.
Add 60 ml of concentrate for every 250 ml of water, adding sugar to taste. Serve chilled or over ice.
Add 1.5 oz of the Rum of your choice to your glass of Mauby juice/drink. Serve chilled or over ice.
Add Mauby concentrate to your choice of Sprite, Soda Water or Tonic Water adding sugar to taste. Serve chilled or over ice.
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Best recipe ever!
Best recipe ever!