VIRGIN ISLANDS MAUBI RECIPE

(Adapted from native recipes, University of the Virgin Islands, Cooperative Extension Service)

INGREDIENTS:
* 4 (3-inch) strips maubi bark
* 1 oz. (2 tablespoons) sweet marjoram
* 1 oz. (2 tablespoons) anise
* 1 oz. (2 tablespoons) rosemary
* 1/8 teaspoon grated nutmeg
* 1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
* 1/8 teaspoon freshly grated orange peel
* 5 quarts water
* 3 pounds sugar
* 2 pinches granular yeast
Directions:
1.Make "bitters" by boiling maubi bark, marjoram, anise, rosemary, nutmeg, cinnamon stick and orange peel in one quart of water for 5 to 10 minutes.
2. Cool.
3.Fill another container with 4 quarts of water; sweeten with sugar.
4.Add the bitters, and then toss mixture with a ladle.
5.When it begins to foam, add yeast.
6.Strain through a clean cloth and bottle.
7.Set aside overnight to age and ferment.
8.Save some as a "starter" for your next maubi making.
9.Makes 6 quarts, or 24 cups.
10.Per cup (nutrient analysis approximate since information for maubi is unavailable): 220 calories, no fat, no cholesterol, 2 mg sodium.