Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada

Chicha Morada (CHEE-chah moh-RAH-dah)

Purple Corn Drink

Prep Time 10 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
8

A deeply refreshing, jewel-toned beverage brewed from dried purple corn with pineapple, cinnamon, cloves, and lime — Peru's iconic non-alcoholic drink.

Nutrition & Info

120 kcal per serving
Carbs 30.0g

Dietary

vegetarian vegan dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

large pot strainer pitcher

Presentation Guide

Vessel: tall glass with ice

Garnishes: lime wheel, pineapple chunk, cinnamon stick

Accompaniments: any Peruvian meal

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine purple corn, pineapple peel, apple, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a large pot with water.

  2. 2

    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 min until liquid is deeply purple.

  3. 3

    Strain into a pitcher, discarding solids.

  4. 4

    Stir in sugar while still warm until dissolved.

  5. 5

    Add lime juice and diced pineapple flesh. Stir well.

  6. 6

    Chill thoroughly. Serve over ice.

💡

Did You Know?

Chicha morada is so central to Peruvian identity that fast-food chains in Peru serve it instead of — or alongside — standard soft drinks.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large pot
  • strainer
  • pitcher

Garnishing

lime wheel, pineapple chunk, cinnamon stick

Accompaniments

any Peruvian meal

The Story Behind Chicha Morada

Chicha morada has been consumed in Peru for over 2,500 years, dating to the Moche and Wari civilizations. Unlike its fermented cousin chicha de jora, this non-alcoholic version became an everyday family drink. It is now Peru's unofficial national beverage, served at every table from street carts to fine dining.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed any meal, daily beverage 📜 Origins: Pre-Columbian

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