How long can I store leftovers?

Store Chicha Morada in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, Chicha Morada can be made a day in advance, just be sure to add fresh lime juice before serving.

Can I substitute the purple corn?

The distinct flavor and color come from purple corn, but you can experiment with blue corn as an alternative if necessary.

Is there a sugar-free version?

Yes, substitute the sugar with your preferred sweetener to make it sugar-free. Adjust the quantity to taste.

Any tips for making it more refreshing?

Add extra lime juice, and serve with plenty of ice and fresh mint for an extra-refreshing beverage.

Tangy Peruvian Chicha Morada with Berries and Cinnamon

Name: Tangy Peruvian Chicha Morada with Berries and Cinnamon
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Beverage
Ingredients: 1 cup Peruvian purple corn kernels; 8 cups water; 1 stick cinnamon; 4 cloves; 1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries); 1 apple, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup pineapple pieces; 1 cup sugar; Juice of 2 limes; 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

A refreshing traditional purple corn beverage

Dive into the vibrant flavors of Peru with this delicious and refreshing Chicha Morada, a sweet-tart drink rich with the flavors of purple corn, berries, and spices.

1 h 30 min
8
Easy

Ingredients

For the Base

1 cup Peruvian purple corn kernels

8 cups water

1 stick cinnamon

4 cloves

For the Flavor

1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries)

1 apple, peeled and chopped

1/2 cup pineapple pieces

1 cup sugar

adjust to taste

For the Finishing Touch

Juice of 2 limes

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

Preparation

Preparing the Base

Rinse the purple corn

Rinse the purple corn under cold water.

Combine ingredients

In a large pot, combine purple corn, water, cinnamon stick, and cloves.

Simmer the base

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45 minutes.

Infusing the Flavor

Add fruits

Add the chopped apple, pineapple pieces, and mixed berries.

Simmer with fruits

Simmer for an additional 15 minutes to allow the fruits to release their flavors.

Sweeten the mixture

Stir in the sugar and mix well until dissolved.

⚠ Ensure the mixture is completely cool before adding lime juice to prevent bitterness. 💡 Adding a sprig of mint before serving brings out a fresh aroma.

Cooking Process

Boiling the Corn Base

Bring the mixture to a full boil to extract the deep purple color.

Simmering the Flavors

Let the pot simmer gently to meld the spices and fruits.

Cooling and Mixing

Allow the mixture to cool completely before straining and adding lime juice and mint.

Plating & Serving