what is chicha

Chicha is a traditional beverage of Latin America, originating from the Andes and Amazonia regions. It is a fermented or non-fermented drink made from different plant sources, especially from maize. Chicha morada is a non-fermented chicha usually made from ears of purple maize, which are boiled with pineapple rind, cinnamon, and cloves. This gives a strong, purple-colored liquid, which is then mixed with sugar and lemon. This beverage is usually taken as a refreshment, but in recent years many health benefits of purple corn have been found. Chicha de Maíz is a fermented drink traditionally made with corn and pineapple, sweetened with panela. Venezuelan Chicha is made with white rice, spices, and three different kinds of milk. It tastes like blended rice pudding on steroids. Chicherias (chicha taverns) were places to consume chicha. Many have historically been unlicensed, home-based businesses that produce chicha on site. In most large cities, chicha is offered by street vendors, commonly referred to as chicheros.