Print

What Is Chicha Morada?

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A refreshing traditional Peruvian drink made with purple corn, spiced with cinnamon and cloves, and brightened up with citrus and sweet fruits—perfect for hot days and backyard BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb purple corn (about 4 ears)
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 cinnamon stick (45 inches)
  • 6 cloves
  • ½ cup sugar (or to taste)
  • 3 apples or pears (diced)
  • Juice of 4 key limes

Instructions

  1. Rinse the corn and toss it in a large pot with any loose kernels.
  2. Add water, cinnamon, and cloves. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 45–50 minutes.
  3. Let it cool slightly, then strain into a pitcher. Stir in the sugar.
  4. Chill for at least 3 hours.
  5. Before serving, add diced fruit and fresh lime juice. Stir, pour over ice, and enjoy.
  6. Bonus: Reuse the leftover corn solids for a second batch—just boil again with fresh water.

Notes

Don’t add the fruit and lime until just before serving to keep things fresh. Try pineapple rinds or guava for fun twists. Stores well in the fridge up to 4 days.

Nutrition