Chicha Morada

Name: Chicha Morada
Cuisine: Peru
Ingredients: Dried purple corn kernels — 150 g (5 oz); Water, divided — 1.9 L (64 fl oz); Pineapple rind and core — 1 (from 1 pineapple); Apple, chopped — 1; Cinnamon stick — 1; Cloves — 4; Sugar, or to taste — 100 g (3.5 oz); Lime juice — 2 tbsp

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

Dried purple corn kernels — 150 g (5 oz)
Water, divided — 1.9 L (64 fl oz)
Pineapple rind and core — 1 (from 1 pineapple)
Apple, chopped — 1
Cinnamon stick — 1
Cloves — 4
Sugar, or to taste — 100 g (3.5 oz)
Lime juice — 2 tbsp

Method

Combine the purple corn, 6 cups of the water, pineapple rind and core, apple, cinnamon stick and cloves in a large pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 45–50 minutes until deeply coloured and fragrant.
Strain through a fine sieve into a jug, pressing to extract as much liquid as possible; discard the solids.
Stir in the remaining water and sugar, adjusting sweetness to taste.
Stir in the lime juice just before serving.
Chill well and serve over ice.

Introduction: A sweet, fragrant purple corn drink flavoured with pineapple, cinnamon and clove, one of Peru's most beloved and distinctive beverages.

Cultural Background: Chicha morada is made from Peru's distinctive purple corn (maíz morado), a treasured native crop, its deep purple colour and fruity, spiced flavour making it a cherished non-alcoholic drink found across the country.

Tips: Simmer long enough to extract the corn's deep purple colour and full flavour. Add the lime juice just before serving, as it also helps brighten the colour further.

Variations: Add a few extra pieces of fresh fruit for a more textured drink, common when served as a dessert-style beverage. Adjust the spice quantities to taste.

Storage: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Reheating: This drink is served cold and is not reheated.

FAQs:

Q: What is purple corn?

A: A distinctive Peruvian corn variety, deep purple in colour, valued both for this drink and its antioxidant properties.

Q: Is chicha morada alcoholic?

A: No, unlike some other South American 'chicha' drinks, this version is non-alcoholic and enjoyed by the whole family.