Chicha morada is the most traditional non-alcoholic beverage of Peru, and is derived from, of all things, purple maize. Purple maize is grown in the Andes Mountains of Peru at altitudes of 1,200 to 1,400 meters above sea level. Ancient burial site findings of this corn indicate that it was first cultivated around 3300 B.C. Recent studies have even suggested that purple maize is a nutritive powerhouse as a great source of antioxidants and anti-carcinogenic properties.
Chicha morada is a unique, refreshing and delicious drink all year round. Having grown up in Peru, I have knocked back chicha morada from as far back as I can remember. The aroma of the purple corn with cloves, a hint of cinnamon and lemon boiling on the stove would always draw me to the kitchen. I recall spending my days on the soccer field and returning home with my friends to enjoy a “chicha pop”, chicha morada that we had frozen in ice trays. Today, my daughters and I share that same love for chicha, served up as cold as we can get it!
I hope that you enjoy this refreshing drink as much as we do while creating some of your own memories.
RJV