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Chicha Morada Spiced Purple Corn Drink

A Peruvian non-alcoholic drink made by simmering dried purple corn with pineapple rind, cinnamon, cloves, and apple, then sweetening with sugar and brightening with lime juice. It has a naturally deep violet hue and a complex fruity-spiced flavor.

60 minEasyServes 6130 cal/serving

PeruvianNon-Alcoholic DrinkStovetopVeganHalal-friendlyGluten-FreeDairy-FreeEgg-FreeNut-FreeLow-SodiumPork-FreeAlcohol-FreeNightshade-Free

Ingredients

  • 12 oz dried purple corn (maiz morado, found at Latin grocery stores)
  • 10 cups water
  • 1/2 fruit pineapple rind and core
  • 1 large apple, quartered
  • 2 cinnamon stick
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place 12 oz dried purple corn (maiz morado, found at Latin grocery stores), 1/2 fruit pineapple rind and core, 1 large quartered apple, 2 cinnamon stick, and 6 whole cloves in a large pot. Add 10 cups water and bring to a boil over high heat.

  2. 2

    Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 40-45 minutes until the liquid is a deep purple-violet color and has a rich corn-fruit aroma.

  3. 3

    Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher. Discard all solids.

  4. 4

    While the liquid is still warm, stir in 2/3 cup granulated sugar until completely dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.

  5. 5

    Stir in 1/4 cup fresh lime juice. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as needed.

  6. 6

    Refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice in tall glasses.

Questions

Can I halve or double Chicha Morada Spiced Purple Corn Drink?

Yes. As written it serves 6. Every ingredient in this entry carries precomputed half and double quantities, and the app's batch dial rewrites them inside each step. To make a pitcher, multiply everything and stir over ice at the end.

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