Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada is a chilled beverage made with Peruvian purple corn, fruits and spices. Peruvian purple corn is one of the many crops harvested in the country’s land which is believed to be blessed by the Sun God Inti. Peru celebrates Inti Raymi on June 24 which is the annual festival of the sun filled with ceremonial dances, parades, offerings, and plenty of food and beverage. Chicha is among one of the most popular beverages in Peru and the recipe below comes straight from my abuela’s kitchen. Cheers.

Chicha Morada: Serves 5-6

• 1 package of Peruvian purple corn

• 1 pineapple (skin peel only)

• 1 green apple (skin peel only)

• 12 cups of water

• 2-3 small cinnamon sticks

• 3-4 cloves

• 1 cup of sugar (add more if you like it extra sweet!)

• 1 lime juice

  Combine the corn, pineapple, apple, water, spices and sugar in a large pot then bring to a boil. Lower to a simmer and let the ingredients get to know each other for about 45-60 minutes. Finish it off with the lime juice from one lime and mix well. Once the liquid has cooled, strain it well then refrigerate. Go ahead and serve it in a glass with the chopped pineapple and apple if you wish.