Chicha de nance
Chicha de nance is a traditional fermented beverage from Central America, particularly popular in Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua. It is made by fermenting the small, yellow, aromatic nance fruit (Byrsonima crassifolia) with water and sugar, sometimes with added spices like cinnamon or cloves.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This drink is primarily a source of carbohydrates from natural fruit sugars and added sweeteners, with minimal protein and fat. It provides some key nutrients like potassium and vitamin C from the nance fruit, and a typical serving contains roughly 150-200 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 175 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 38 g |
| Sodium | 15 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 IU |
| Calcium | 20 mg |
| Iron | 0.4 mg |
| Magnesium | 15 mg |
| Phosphorus | 25 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.3 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, chicha de nance is a festive drink often enjoyed during holidays and celebrations, embodying traditional fermentation knowledge. Nutritionally, the fermentation process can introduce beneficial probiotics, and the nance fruit itself is rich in antioxidants and has been used in traditional medicine.
