Tepache is a traditional Mexican beverage made from fermented pineapple. This tangy and refreshing drink is a great way to beat the heat during the summer. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can make your own homemade tepache that tastes just as good as the one from a local taqueria. This recipe is easy to follow and will walk you through the process step by step. So grab a pineapple and get ready to savor the delicious flavors of Mexico in this wonderful beverage.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe pineapple
- 3/4 cup piloncillo (Mexican dark brown sugar), or substitute with light brown sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3 whole cloves
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup tamarind pulp, optional
Directions
- Peel the pineapple and remove the core. Cut the pineapple flesh into small cubes.
- Place the pineapple cubes, piloncillo, cinnamon stick, and cloves in a large glass jar or container.
- In a separate saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, pour the hot water over the pineapple mixture in the jar.
- Cover the jar with a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and let it sit at room temperature for 48-72 hours. Stir the mixture once or twice a day.
- After 48-72 hours, strain the liquid into bottles or jars, discarding the pineapple and spices. Add tamarind pulp, if desired, for additional flavor.
- Seal the bottles or jars and refrigerate for at least 8 hours before serving. The longer it sits, the fizzier it will get.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Tepache is believed to have originated during the pre-Columbian times in Mexico and was consumed by the indigenous people.
The fermentation process in tepache is similar to that of other fermented beverages, such as kombucha or homemade ginger beer.
In traditional tepache recipes, the pineapple peels are used to kickstart the fermentation process.