Peru is known for its delicious culinary delights – from cuy to lomo saltado and a myriad of other delightful dishes. But did you know there are many tasty local beverages available to accompany the food found in restaurants and on street corners? While Cusquena (Peruvian beer) and Inka Cola (a yellow Peruvian soda) are thirst quenching at the best of times, here are four Peruvian drinks to add to your list to sample.
1. Pisco Sour
Pisco sour is a name you will see and hear in all parts of Peru, and if you are an alcohol drinker, you need to try it at least once during your visit. Pisco sour is the national cocktail of Peru and is made using the liquor of the same name, Pisco. The Pisco liquor is accompanied by lime juice, ice, sweet syrup, egg white and angostura bitters It is iconic as they come.
2. Coca Tea
Coca tea is a common drink in Peru and is brewed from the coca leaf. It is a popular drink which is also used to combat the effects of altitude sickness particularly in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. It is also a great way to warm up when the weather turns cold. A version of a Pisco sour made with coca leaves, known as a coca sour, is also available.
3. Chicha Morada
This non-alcoholic version of chicha is served in restaurants, at the markets, and by street vendors. Deep purple, it gets its color from purple corn as the staple ingredient. It has a sweet cinnamon-like taste and requires sugar, lime juice, pineapple, cloves and cinnamon to complete the recipe. It is all boiled and cooled before being enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
4. Chicha de Jora
Chicha de jora is the alcoholic version of chicha morada. It is made from yellow corn and is fermented like apple cider. It has been enjoyed by Peruvians by hundreds of years and remains a much-loved and affordable alcoholic option today.
