Mote con Huesillos: A Refreshing Chilean Treat
Mote con Huesillos is a beloved Chilean beverage that combines the unique sweetness of dried peaches (huesillos) with the wholesome texture of wheat (mote). This traditional drink is perfect for warm days and is enjoyed by people of all ages. Below, you will find a detailed recipe to make this delightful concoction, complete with preparation notes, nutritional information, and step-by-step instructions.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Huesillos (dried peaches) | 250 grams |
| Brown sugar | 180 grams (3/4 cup) |
| Orange peel | 1 piece |
| Cinnamon sticks | 2 pieces |
| Mote (cooked wheat) | 1 cup |
| Water | 1 liter |
| Additional notes | See below |
Preparation Notes
- It is recommended to soak the dried peaches (huesillos) overnight in ample water to soften them. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor.
- Optionally, you can add chancaca, a type of unrefined cane sugar, which enhances the color of the juice. If you prefer, you can caramelize some brown sugar before adding it to the mix. This will give the juice a rich color and flavor.
- Ensure to keep the mote and the huesillos with their juice stored separately in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Instructions
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Soak the Huesillos: Begin by soaking the dried peaches in sufficient water overnight. This will help them become tender and flavorful.
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Prepare the Huesillos: The following day, place the soaked huesillos along with the soaking water into a pot. Add the brown sugar, orange peel, and cinnamon sticks. Stir to combine the ingredients.
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Add Sweeteners (Optional): If desired, incorporate chancaca to deepen the color of the juice. Alternatively, caramelize some brown sugar and add it to the mixture while it’s still warm. You can also add the brown sugar at the beginning of the cooking process for sweetness.
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Cook the Huesillos: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the huesillos are tender. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow to cool. After cooling, refrigerate the mixture until chilled.
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Prepare the Mote: While the huesillos are cooling, cook the mote in a separate pot with ample water for about 20 minutes, or until tender.
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Rinse the Mote: After cooking, drain the mote using a colander and rinse it under cold running water to cool it down and remove any excess starch.
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Store the Mote: Place the cooked mote in a container suitable for refrigeration. Set aside.
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Assemble the Drink: Once both components are ready, serve in tall glasses. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of mote, a couple of huesillos, and a generous amount of the huesillos juice for a refreshing treat.
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Refrigerate Separately: Keep the mote and the huesillos with their juice refrigerated separately until ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 10 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 54 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugars | 38 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
Conclusion
Mote con Huesillos is more than just a beverage; it’s a slice of Chilean culture, embodying the warmth of summer and the comfort of tradition. The process of preparing it may take some time, but the result is a delightful, refreshing drink that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or simply on a hot day, this traditional recipe is sure to impress.
Feel free to experiment with additional flavors or toppings as you create your version of this classic Chilean treat. Enjoy every sip of this refreshing delight, and savor the taste of tradition!
