Chicha y Limonada

Purple Corn Drink - Chicha Morada

Serves 16

Purple corn is original to the Peruvian Andes and has been utilized in the region since before the Incas. In Peru, purple corn is used to make a delicious drink that is highly valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties. According to many, the drink helps lower high blood pressure and encourages blood circulation. Above all, Chicha is refreshing and delicious as a snack or after a meal.

1 gallon water (16 cups)

1 (15 ounce) package dried purple corn

2 cinnamon sticks

1 tbs whole cloves

Skin of 2 apples

Skin of ¼ pineapple

5 large limes, juiced

1 ½ cup brown sugar

Place the water, corn, cinnamon, cloves, and skins in a large pot. Cover, and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 40 minutes. Remove from heat and strain through a mesh strainer. Stir in lemon juice and sugar. Refrigerate until cool enough to serve. 

Limeade - Limonada

Serves 16

Aguas Frescas, or fresh fruit water, are common throughout Mexico and Latin America. Just a little fruit juice diluted in water with a little lime and sugar will refresh any palate on a hot summer day.

4 limes, seeded and quartered

16 cups cold water

1 ½ cups sugar

Ice cubes

In a blender, place 4 cups of water with the lemon and sugar. Blend well until the lemon is barely visible. Mix with the rest of the water and place in a glass jar. Serve with ice cubes