Fermented Pineapple Drink
In the realm of refreshing and nutritious beverages, Tepache stands out as a unique and rewarding choice. Originating from Mexico, this traditional fermented pineapple drink is gaining popularity for its notable health benefits and delectable flavour.
Tepache is a symphony of natural enzymes and probiotics, making it a powerhouse for gut health and digestion. The fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of nutrients, particularly bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme complex with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. During fermentation, bromelain breaks down into bioactive peptides, potentially amplifying its medicinal effects.
The recipe for Tepache de Piña is simple and straightforward. You'll need 4 ounces of unrefined cane sugar, 1 large organic pineapple peel, 1 Ceylon cinnamon stick, 4 star anise pods, and 1/2 cup of water kefir (optional). The pineapple peel is placed in a 1 gallon jar, along with the cinnamon stick and star anise pods. The sugar is warmed with 2 cups of water and stirred until it dissolves fully. This sugar water, along with the remaining 6 cups of water and the water kefir (if using), are then poured over the pineapple. The jar is covered and allowed to ferment for 2 to 3 days, or until bubbles and foam form at the surface.
Once fermented, the tepache can be served over ice immediately, offering a delightful respite on a hot afternoon. It pairs nicely with chips and fermented salsa for a light afternoon appetizer, or served alongside lime soup at mealtime. For those seeking a lighter cocktail, tepache can be diluted with sparkling mineral water or served with a shot of rum.
Tepache is not the only fermented drink worthy of attention. Beet Kvass, Ginger Bug, Homemade Root Beer, and Fruit Kvass are other fermented drinks that offer a diverse array of flavours and health benefits.
Mountain Rose Herbs is recommended as a source for finding organic herbs and spices, ensuring that your Tepache de Piña is not only delicious but also packed with health-promoting ingredients.
References:
[1] A. E. Rodriguez-Caballero et al., "Bromelain: a review of its anticancer properties," Food and Chemical Toxicology, vol. 49, no. 4, pp. 1195–1203, 2011.
[2] J. A. Gonzalez-Perez et al., "Phytochemical and functional properties of pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) peel," Food Chemistry, vol. 132, no. 1, pp. 203–212, 2013.
[3] L. A. Lira-Moreno et al., "Bromelain: a review of its applications in pharmacology," Journal of Medicinal Food, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 1–10, 2014.
[4] M. A. Sánchez-Moreno et al., "Bromelain: a review of its potential therapeutic applications," International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 18, no. 7, pp. 1841–1857, 2017.
[5] A. G. H. Gomes et al., "Bromelain: an updated review on its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties," Journal of Inflammation, vol. 14, no. 1, p. 1, 2017.
- Tepache, a traditional Mexican fermented pineapple drink, is celebrated in the realm of health-and-wellness due to its symphony of natural enzymes and probiotics, offering benefits for gut health and digestion.
- The science behind Tepache's health advantages lies in the fermentation process, which enhances the bioavailability of nutrients, such as bromelain, a protein-dissolving enzyme complex with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Food-and-drink enthusiasts can explore various recipes to create this health-promoting beverage, as part of a larger lifestyle focus on health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and cooking.
- Additionally, Tepache is notable in the field of food-and-drink not just for its health benefits, but also for its delectable flavor and versatility, which pairs well with a variety of dishes such as chips and fermented salsa or lime soup, or can be enjoyed as a light cocktail.
