Chicha de Maíz
Chicha de Maíz is a traditional, slightly alcoholic fermented corn beverage, originating from indigenous cultures in the Andes region. It's a refreshing and unique drink with a history spanning centuries.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1kg Dried Yellow Corn Kernels(Ensure it's suitable for consumption, not animal feed.)
- 500g Panela (unrefined whole cane sugar)(Also known as piloncillo or jaggery. Adjust to taste.)
- 2 Cinnamon Sticks(For aroma and flavor during cooking.)
- 4-5 liters Water(For cooking and mashing.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the corn kernels thoroughly under cold running water. Place the rinsed corn in a large pot and cover with about 3 liters of fresh water. Add the cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 2 hours, or until the corn is very soft and has started to break down. The water should be starchy.
⏱️ 2 hours - 2
Remove the cinnamon sticks from the pot. Using a potato masher or the back of a sturdy spoon, mash the softened corn directly in the pot to create a thick paste. Gradually add another 1-2 liters of water, stirring continuously, until you achieve a thick, porridge-like consistency. Ensure there are no large lumps of corn.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 3
Crumble or chop the panela and add it to the corn mixture. Stir well until the panela has completely dissolved. Taste the mixture; it should be noticeably sweet. Cover the pot loosely (to allow air circulation for fermentation) and let it sit at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. The exact fermentation time depends on ambient temperature and desired level of fermentation (and slight alcohol content). Stir the mixture once or twice a day.
⏱️ 2-3 days - 4
After the fermentation period, the chicha will have a slightly tangy aroma and may have a frothy top. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean pitcher or container, discarding the solids. Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator before serving. Serve cold.
⏱️ 15 minutes (straining and chilling)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The longer the fermentation, the more alcoholic and tangy the chicha will become. Adjust to your preference.
- ✓Chicha de Maíz is a significant part of pre-Columbian indigenous culinary traditions.
- ✓This drink is known for its refreshing quality, especially when served very cold.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For a more intensely fermented (and alcoholic) beverage, extend the fermentation time.
- Reduce the amount of panela for a less sweet version.
- Some recipes include a small amount of cooked rice or other grains to aid fermentation.