Tepache (Fermented Pineapple Drink)
Tepache is a traditional Mexican fermented beverage made from pineapple peels, brown sugar, and spices. It's a refreshing, slightly effervescent drink with a sweet and tangy flavor, perfect for warm days.
Ingredients
🍍 1 ripe pineapple
🍬 1 cup piloncillo or dark brown sugar
🌿 1 cinnamon stick
🌿 2 cloves
💧 8 cups water
Equipment
• Large glass jar or pitcher
• Cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel
• Rubber band or string
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon
Prep Time
15 minutes
Fermentation Time
24-48 hours
Calories & Macros (per serving)
• Calories: 100
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 0g
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pineapple
o Wash the pineapple thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.
o Peel the pineapple, reserving the peels and core.
o The fruit can be used for another recipe or enjoyed separately.
2. Combine Ingredients
o In a large glass jar or pitcher, add the pineapple peels and core.
o Add the piloncillo or dark brown sugar, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
o Pour in the water, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
3. Cover and Ferment
o Cover the jar with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel, securing it with a rubber band or string.
o Place the jar in a warm, dark place to ferment for 24 to 48 hours.
o The longer it ferments, the more pronounced the tangy flavor will be.
4. Strain and Serve
o After fermentation, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids.
o Transfer the tepache to a clean pitcher or bottles.
o Refrigerate to chill before serving.
5. Optional: Carbonation
o For a fizzy tepache, pour the strained liquid into airtight bottles, leaving some headspace.
o Seal and let sit at room temperature for an additional 12 to 24 hours to carbonate.
o Refrigerate afterward to halt fermentation and enjoy chilled.
Cooking and Serving Tips
• Flavor Variations: Add spices like star anise or allspice for additional depth of flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve over ice with a slice of lime for a refreshing drink.
• Storage: Keep refrigerated and consume within a week for optimal freshness.
Enjoy your homemade Tepache!
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