Chilchen berry syrup
Chilchen berry syrup is a traditional sweet and tangy condiment made from the small, tart berries of the Chilchen plant, native to the Andean regions of South America. The berries are typically simmered with water and sugar or honey to create a vibrant, deep-red syrup. It is a beloved regional specialty, often used to flavor drinks, desserts, and even savory dishes.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This syrup is primarily a source of quick energy from carbohydrates, specifically natural fruit sugars and added sweeteners. It provides a modest amount of dietary fiber and is a surprisingly good source of antioxidants like anthocyanins, with a typical serving containing around 120-150 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Protein | 0.2 g |
| Carbs | 33 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 30 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Iron | 0.5 mg |
| Potassium | 90 mg |
| Manganese | 0.3 mg |
| Antioxidants (Anthocyanins) | High |
Per 2 tablespoons (40 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Chilchen berries are a 'superfood' of the Andes, packed with antioxidants that give the syrup its intense color. Culturally, it's a versatile staple, used not just as a sweetener but also in traditional remedies and as a natural food dye.
