What drink is made with spit in South America?

Answered by Robert Golston

In South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin, there is a traditional drink called chicha that is made using a unique method involving spit. Chicha is a fermented that has been enjoyed by indigenous communities for centuries. While it may sound unusual to some, the process of making chicha using spit is deeply rooted in cultural traditions and has significant social and historical significance.

The main ingredient used to make chicha is cassava, a starchy root vegetable also known as yuca. Cassava is a staple crop in many South American countries and is widely available in the Amazon Basin. To begin the process, the cassava roots are thoroughly washed and peeled, preparing them for the next step.

Traditionally, it is the women who play a vital role in making chicha. They gather together and form a sort of assembly line, each taking a turn to chew the washed and peeled cassava. This process is known as “mastication” and involves the women chewing the cassava and spitting the into a communal bowl.

While the idea of spitting into a bowl may seem unappetizing to some, it is important to understand the cultural significance behind this practice. Chewing the cassava releases natural enzymes in the saliva that help break down the starches into fermentable sugars, thus initiating the fermentation process. The act of spitting into the bowl is not simply a means of extracting the juice; it is a communal activity that fosters social bonding and is often accompanied by storytelling, laughter, and shared experiences.

Once enough cassava juice has been collected in the bowl, it is then transferred to a fermentation vessel. The juice is mixed with and left to ferment for several days or even weeks, depending on the desired flavor and content. During fermentation, the natural present in the environment converts the sugars into alcohol, resulting in a mildly alcoholic beverage.

After the fermentation process is complete, the chicha is usually strained to remove any solids or impurities. It is then ready to be consumed, and it is often served in communal gatherings or special occasions. Chicha can have a slightly sour taste due to the fermentation process, and it is typically enjoyed cold.

It is worth noting that while cassava is the most commonly used ingredient in chicha, other variations of the drink can be made using different ingredients. In some regions, cooking plantain is used instead of cassava to make chicha. The process remains similar, with the fruit being chewed or mashed to extract the juice.

Chicha is a traditional South American beverage that is made using a unique method involving the chewing and spitting of cassava or other ingredients. This ancient practice has deep cultural and social significance, and it continues to be cherished by indigenous communities in the Amazon Basin. While the concept of using spit may initially seem unusual, it is essential to embrace cultural diversity and understand the historical context behind such practices.