Updated 27 October 2017
Peru has some amazing drinks, both alcoholic and non. Here are 5 drinks that you definitely have to drink if you're going to visit Peru.
Algarrobina Cocktail
This alcoholic drink is commonly drunk in the north of Peru. Made from pods of
algarrobina trees and is similar to
molasses. Take that and mix it with
whisky or pisco, milk, egg whites, sugar, and
vanilla, and you're in for
a sweet treat. It's absolutely amazing. You definitely have to try it. It reminds me a bit of Bailey's. It's got that rich, creamy taste to it.
Chicha Morada Juice
Made from purple corn, this non-alcoholic drink is enjoyed by children and adults alike. You'll need apples, pineapple, cinnamon,
allspice,
cloves, and
lime juice. I've never made it since you can buy it cheaply enough in Peru ready made.Yes, I know. It looks weird. Purple corn. Sounds weird to be drinking corn juice. But I swear
chicha morada tastes good, especially when you can get it freshly made with a bit of
cinnamon.
Inca Kola
Inca Kola is to Peru as
Iron Bru is to Scotland. This yellow soft drink beats
Coca Cola and Pepsi in sales. It tastes similar to cream soda. Although it's now under the Coca Cola company, Peruvians still love it. If you're in Peru, you definitely have to try it! It's not something I'd drink all the time because it's jammed packed full of sugar, but hey, when in Peru, you gotta do what the Peruvians do. And they drink Inca Kola, so don't fight it.
Maracuya Juice
As I mentioned in the post about
Peruvian fruits, maracuya is also known as passion fruit. When I first got to Peru I heard people rave about how
delicious maracuya juice was, so I went out and bought a bagful. At home I patiently tried to
peel them. After a while I called a friend who couldn't stop laughing at
me. She told me to cut them in half and scoop the inside out. I've
always put them in a
blender with sugar and water to make juice. Be sure
to strain the seeds off before drinking.
Pisco Sour
For many years Peruvians and Chileans have argued over the creation of Pisco, but as any Peruvian knows,
Pisco
is Peruvian. So what better place to try a Pisco Sour than Peru? Made
with pisco, eggs,
lime juice,
angostura bitters, it has a real kick to it. I personally am not a fan of Pisco Sours, but that's just me. With that being said, I still gave it a shot (slight pun, forgive me).
More Info
Here are some more posts that might interest you.
If you're interested in finding out more about Peruvian gastronomy, check out
The Fire of Peru and
Gaston Acurio's cookbook. There
are also lots of
Peruvian remedies
that use traditional Peruvian foods.
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