Chicha Peruana

Jun 05, 2023June 5, 20230 2

Authentic Peruvian Chicha Recipe

by The Chefin Beverage

Prep

24 hours

Cook

20 min

Ready In

72 hours

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

	1 1/2 lbs jora ( malted corn )
	1 lb piloncillo cone ( akin to brown sugar )
	1 package Nottingham dry yeast

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

138

Sugar

18g

Fat

Chicha is a traditional Peruvian drink made from malted corn that has been enjoyed for thousands of years. The Inca people used to drink chicha as a way of celebrating religious ceremonies and social events. Nowadays, chicha can be found all over Peru and other Latin American countries. The beverage is prepared by soaking malted corn in water, boiling it with piloncillo, and fermenting the mixture with yeast. Chicha is served chilled or at room temperature, making it the perfect drink to enjoy on a hot summer day. It has a sweet and sour taste and is often enjoyed with a spicy Peruvian dish.

Instructions

1.	Rinse the jora in a colander, then soak it overnight in 3 quarts of water.
2.	In the morning, blend the jora with the soaking water until smooth in a blender or food processor.
3.	Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a large pot.
4.	Add the piloncillo and bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.
5.	Let the mixture cool to below 75°F (24°C), then stir in the yeast.
6.	Cover the pot with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 2-3 days, stirring once a day.
7.	Strain the chicha to remove any solids and store in the refrigerator. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

PROS

Chicha is a refreshing and unique fermented beverage with a sweet and sour taste.

Malted corn in the recipe provides an excellent source of dietary fiber and antioxidants.

CONS

Due to its fermentation process, chicha contains a small amount of alcohol and should be consumed in moderation.

Be aware of the potential health risks of consuming homemade fermented beverages.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Malted corn in chicha is rich in fiber and antioxidants which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
The fermentation process of chicha can improve gut health and aid digestion when consumed in moderation.