Chilchen berry sauce
Chilchen berry sauce is a vibrant, tangy condiment made from the tart berries of the Chilchen plant, which is native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes in South America. The sauce is typically prepared by simmering the berries with sugar or honey, and sometimes a touch of local spices like cinnamon or cloves, to balance their natural sourness. It is a traditional accompaniment to savory dishes, cheeses, and meats in Peruvian and Bolivian cuisine.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This sauce is primarily a source of carbohydrates from its natural fruit sugars and any added sweeteners, with negligible fat and protein. It provides a good dose of antioxidants and vitamin C from the berries, with a rough calorie estimate of around 80-100 kcal per 2-tablespoon serving.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 85 kcal |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Carbs | 21 g |
| Fat | 0.1 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Potassium | 120 mg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin K | 2 mcg |
| Iron | 0.4 mg |
| Copper | 0.05 mg |
Per 2 tablespoons (30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Chilchen berries are a foraged ingredient with deep roots in Andean culinary traditions, often used to add a bright, acidic contrast to rich, hearty meals. Nutritionally, the berries are notable for their exceptionally high antioxidant content, which contributes to the sauce's deep red color and potential health benefits.
