Cola soft drink

Cola soft drink is a sugary carbonated beverage, known for its sweet and slightly acidic flavor that combines notes of vanilla, caramel, and secret spices. It is one of the most popular soft drinks worldwide and is used in cooking primarily to marinate meats, prepare cocktails, or add a distinctive, sweet touch to various recipes, such as stews and desserts.

Its origin dates back to the late 19th century in the United States, where it was initially created as a medicinal beverage and over time evolved into a mass-market soft drink. Although its exact recipe is a secret, it generally contains kola nut extracts, sugar or sweeteners, caffeine, colorings, and phosphoric acid.

Regarding its properties, cola soft drink mainly provides sugars and caffeine, so it should be consumed in moderation. In cooking, its effervescence helps tenderize meats and its sweet flavor can balance savory dishes or provide an interesting contrast in desserts.

In different Latin American countries, cola soft drink may also be known as cola soda, cola beverage, cola pop, or simply cola.