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Peruvian Ingredients: Kiwicha

Known as one of the main seeds in Peruvian agriculture landscape, Kiwicha has been a popular ingredient for decades. The scientific name - Amaranthus caudatus Linnaeus - shows that its part of a large family of short-lived plants with dense flowers, and are cultivated in many parts of South America. The plant is also knows as "Amaranth" or "Love-lies-bleeding" and actually has a long history in the continent. There's clear evidence that it has been planted and manipulated 4 thousand years ago by the the Inca population. Kiwicha has an outstanding nutritional value and was considered by the Incas as a super food, even though they never used that term of course. A serving of pure grain has 15 to 18% protein (which helps build bones and muscles). To this is added a high percentage of calcium, iron, phosphorus and zinc. It's also rich in vitamin A - which has antioxidant properties and preserves the health and proper functioning of specific tissues, such as the

Peruvian Ingredients: Purple Corn

Unique taste and a intense dark purple tone. This variety of corn grows in the Andean region of South America, and it's been used in Peruvian cuisine for more than two thousand years. In fact, it was called "moro sara" in the Inca Empire. Today is still one of the most iconic ingredients in Perú. Purple corn is the main ingredient of the refreshing "Chicha Morada" and the traditional "Mazamorra". Purple corn (Zea Mays) is rich in anthocyanins and therefore has some nutritional benefits that are worth mentioning. It' has antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties, and it also helps controlling hypertension. 7 Facts About Purple Corn: 1. "Chicha Morada" is the most traditional drink in the country, and it's made with Purple Corn, sugar, water, pineapple and cinnamon. 2.  Some ancient cultures in South America - before the Incas - were already preparing drinks with Purple Corn. 3. It's also used as colorant by many in