AFF Recipe: Tepache by Mercado Sin Nombre

Tepache by Mercado Sin Nombre

Ingredients:
rind + core of 1 pineapple (preferably organic)
1 piloncillo cone, shaved
1 Mexican cinnamon stick
2 star anise, cracked
2 cloves, cracked
3 allspice berries, cracked
3 black peppercorns, cracked
Pinch of salt

Instructions:
Place all ingredients in a ceramic or glass container. Cover with water and stir to dissolve piloncillo shavings. Ensure all pineapple rind is submerged (about 1.5 – 2 liters. Place a weight of some kind on top if needed) before covering with a lid. Let sit in a cool, dark place for 3-4 days without letting much, if any, air in.

Pour tepache through a fine mesh strainer to remove solid ingredients. If liquid is too syrupy, add water to get to your desired consistency. Serve over plenty of ice and enjoy.

If you’re looking for a brighter and nuanced tepache for those hotter days, add:
1 lemongrass stick
1 tsp coriander
1 tbs chamomile