Chicha Morada Recipe: Peruvian Purple Corn Drink

Originating in the Andes Mountains, Chicha Morada is a traditional Peruvian beverage made from purple corn. This sweet and refreshing drink is not only delicious but also represents a cherished part of Peruvian culture and is consumed regularly at a national level.

Discover more about this beloved, fruity drink and how you can prepare Chicha Morada in your home.

What is Chicha Morada?

Chicha Morada is a quintessential non-alcoholic drink loved by Peruvians across the country. Made by boiling purple corn grown in the Andes, Chicha Morada is infused with a variety of fruits and spices to create a colourful cocktail of flavours.

In Peru, Chicha Morada is much more than just a drink. It's a cultural symbol that embodies Peru's rich history and culture and has been consumed for generations. Wander through Peru's streets, and you'll no doubt find yourself enjoying this delicious drink, served by almost every restaurant across the country.

What does Chicha Morada taste like?

Chicha Morada has a very fruity and refreshing taste, mainly due to the fruits added, such as pineapple, apple, and quince. Spices such as cinnamon and cloves are also essential ingredients when preparing Chicha Morada, creating an aromatic and slightly spicy undertone to this drink. Finally, sugar adds sweetness, and lime juice provides a slightly tart and citrus flavour.

With its distinct purple color, Chicha Morada offers a combination of delicious flavours that encapsulate the wide variety of ingredients that grow in Peru.

What is the History of Chicha Morada?

Purple corn has long been revered by the indigenous people of the Andes for its distinct color, versatility, and health benefits. From Mazamorra Morada to Chicha Morada, ancient Peruvian civilizations, such as the Incas, used this corn not only in their cooking but also for medicinal purposes.

When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Peru in the 1500s, they brought new ingredients such as cinnamon and cloves, which gradually became part of this popular drink. Today, Chicha Morada is enjoyed throughout Peru for its complex and unique flavour and its nutritional benefits.

What are the Health Benefits of Purple Corn?

The diverse geographical landscape of Peru means that the country enjoys an abundance of healthy and unique ingredients, none more so than its famous purple corn! Here are some of the top health benefits of drinking purple corn:

• Rich in Antioxidants: High in anthocyanins, drinking purple corn can help combat free radicals (unstable atoms that can damage cells or cause illness). This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote overall good health.
  

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Purple corn has been shown in multiple studies to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it perfect for people with any type of inflammation issues.
  

• Overall Digestive Health: Containing pineapple, apple, and quince, Chicha Morada can aid with digestive issues.
  

• Improved Blood Circulation: Anthocyanins found in purple corn have also been shown to improve blood circulation, supporting overall body health.

How to Make Peruvian Chicha Morada

While Chicha Morada has relatively few ingredients, the need to boil the corn and fruits over an extended period and then wait for it to cool means that this drink does take some time to prepare.

However, making homemade Chicha Morada is very rewarding and tastes delicious! Follow the steps below to prepare Chicha Morada:

1. Chop the Fruits: Start by chopping the apple and quince into small pieces, and peeling the pineapple.
   

2. Boil the Corn and Fruits: In a large pot, add the chopped fruits and the purple corn, along with cinnamon sticks and cloves, and bring to a boil.
   

3. Simmer: Allow the pot to simmer for around 45 minutes to an hour, letting the flavours of the fruit and purple corn infuse into the liquid.
   

4. Strain: Once boiled, strain the liquid into a large bowl, removing any solids.
   

5. Sweeten and Chill: Add white sugar to sweeten, stirring until dissolved. Add a squeeze of lime juice and put in the fridge to chill.
   

6. Serve: Pour yourself a cold glass or jug of your favourite Chicha Morada and enjoy

Peruvian Chicha Morada Recipe

If you prefer a visual guide for your recipes, watch the video below.

Chicha Morada Ingredientes

• 500 gr of purple corn

• 5 cloves

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 quince

• 1 apple

• Peel of 1/2 pineapple

• 4 litres of water

• Sugar to taste

• Lime juice to taste Optional Extras include:
  

• 1/2 dried fig leaf

• 1 star anise

• 2 peaches