Mote con huesillo is one of Chile’s most iconic and refreshing traditional drinks. It is a sweet, non-alcoholic beverage made from dried peaches (huesillos), wheat kernels (mote), and a caramelized sugar syrup flavored with cinnamon. This delicious and nutritious drink is especially popular during the hot Chilean summers.
Mote con huesillo is not just a drink; it is also a cultural symbol that has been enjoyed for generations. This topic will explore its origins, ingredients, preparation, health benefits, and why it remains a favorite among Chileans and visitors alike.
The Origins of Mote con Huesillo
Mote con huesillo has been part of Chilean culinary traditions for centuries. Its exact origins are not well documented, but historians believe that it dates back to pre-Columbian times when indigenous people used grains and dried fruits in their diets.
During the colonial period, Spanish settlers introduced sugarcane and cinnamon, which were later incorporated into the recipe. Over time, mote con huesillo became a popular street food, served by vendors at fairs, markets, and parks throughout Chile. Today, it remains a staple of Chilean summer culture, enjoyed by people of all ages.
What is Mote con Huesillo Made Of?
This traditional Chilean drink consists of three main components:
1. Huesillos (Dried Peaches)
Huesillos are dehydrated peaches that are rehydrated by soaking and cooking them in a sweet syrup. The drying process gives them a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness.
2. Mote (Cooked Wheat Kernels)
Mote is hulled wheat that has been boiled until tender. It has a slightly nutty flavor and a soft, chewy consistency. Mote is commonly used in Chilean cuisine, not only in drinks but also in soups and salads.
3. Sweet Syrup
The syrup is made by boiling water with sugar (or chancaca, a type of unrefined sugar), cinnamon, and sometimes orange or lemon peel. The huesillos are simmered in this mixture until they absorb the flavors, creating a rich, golden-colored syrup.
How to Make Mote con Huesillo
Preparing mote con huesillo at home is easy, but it does require some time for soaking and cooking. Here is a step-by-step guide to making this delicious Chilean drink:
Ingredients:
✔ 2 cups of dried peaches (huesillos)
✔ 1 cup of mote (hulled wheat kernels)
✔ 6 cups of water
✔ 1 cup of sugar or chancaca
✔ 1 cinnamon stick
✔ 1 lemon or orange peel (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Huesillos
✔ Place the dried peaches in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours to soften.
Step 2: Cook the Huesillos in Syrup
✔ In a large pot, bring 6 cups of water to a boil.
✔ Add the soaked huesillos, sugar, and cinnamon stick.
✔ Simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes until the huesillos become tender and the syrup thickens.
✔ Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Mote
✔ Rinse the mote under cold water.
✔ In a separate pot, boil the mote in water until soft (about 20-30 minutes).
✔ Drain and let it cool.
Step 4: Assemble the Drink
✔ In a glass or bowl, add a generous scoop of cooked mote.
✔ Pour in the syrup along with 1-2 huesillos.
✔ Serve chilled or with ice cubes for a refreshing summer treat.
How is Mote con Huesillo Served?
Mote con huesillo is typically served cold in a large glass, making it perfect for hot weather. Vendors often sell it in plastic cups with a spoon and straw, allowing people to drink the sweet liquid while eating the mote and huesillos.
Some people prefer it with extra syrup for a richer, sweeter taste, while others enjoy it with less sugar to highlight the natural flavors of the fruit and grains.
Health Benefits of Mote con Huesillo
Despite being a sweet drink, mote con huesillo is also nutritious and provides several health benefits:
1. High in Fiber
✔ Mote (wheat kernels) is rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
2. Provides Energy
✔ The natural sugars from huesillos and the syrup give a quick energy boost, making it a great option for an afternoon snack.
3. Contains Essential Nutrients
✔ Huesillos contain vitamins A and C, which help support the immune system and promote healthy skin.
✔ Mote is a good source of iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, essential for metabolism and overall health.
4. Hydrating and Refreshing
✔ Served cold, mote con huesillo helps keep the body hydrated and cool during hot summer days.
Why is Mote con Huesillo So Popular in Chile?
There are several reasons why mote con huesillo remains one of Chile’s favorite summer drinks:
✔ Affordable and widely available – It is sold at street vendors, markets, and fairs throughout the country.
✔ Refreshing and delicious – The combination of sweet syrup, soft peaches, and chewy wheat is unique and satisfying.
✔ A cultural tradition – Many Chileans have fond memories of drinking mote con huesillo at family gatherings, celebrations, and outdoor events.
✔ Nutritious and natural – Unlike artificial sodas, mote con huesillo is made with real fruit and grains, making it a healthier alternative.
Interesting Facts About Mote con Huesillo
✔ The drink is sometimes called “the Chilean nectar” due to its sweet and refreshing nature.
✔ Chilean street vendors often shout “¡Mote con huesillo bien heladito!” to attract customers on hot days.
✔ Some variations include adding a splash of white wine or pisco for an adult version.
✔ It is common to eat the mote and huesillos with a spoon first before drinking the syrup.
How to Enjoy Mote con Huesillo at Home
If you want to experience the authentic taste of Chile, making mote con huesillo at home is a great way to do it. Here are some tips to enhance the flavor:
✔ Use high-quality huesillos – Organic dried peaches have a better taste and texture.
✔ Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a healthier version, reduce the sugar or use honey as a natural sweetener.
✔ Serve very cold – Chill the drink in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
Mote con huesillo is more than just a drink—it is a beloved Chilean tradition that brings people together. With its unique combination of dried peaches, wheat grains, and sweet syrup, it offers a delicious and refreshing experience perfect for hot summer days.
Whether you enjoy it at a street vendor in Santiago or make it at home, this drink remains a symbol of Chilean culture and heritage. Try it for yourself and discover why mote con huesillo is a favorite among locals and tourists alike!