Mote Con Huesillo Recipe is a traditional drink that many Chileans enjoy, especially during the summer when the weather is hot. This drink is cool and refreshing. It has chewy husked wheat (mote) and sweet, rehydrated dried peaches (huesillos) in a lightly spiced, sweet syrup. People have loved it for generations. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a taste of Chilean culture and tradition that people enjoy at festivals, street fairs, and family gatherings.
The best thing about the mote con huesillo recipe is how simple it is and how good the flavors are. You can create a drink that is both filling and healthy with just a few simple ingredients: wheat, dried peaches, sugar, and a few spices. This drink differs from other summer drinks because it has a unique texture derived from the soft peaches and slightly firm wheat. It is a healthier choice than sodas or drinks with fake flavors because it is naturally sweet and has a hint of spice.
This recipe is easy to follow and works for any occasion, whether you’re a pro at cooking at home or trying mote con huesillo for the first time. We’ll guide you through the process of making this traditional Chilean drink, step by step, from soaking and cooking the ingredients to assembling and serving it. By the end, you’ll have a drink that tastes like Chile and is refreshing and tasty. You can share it with family and friends.
- What is Mote Con Huesillo?
- How to Make Mote Con Huesillo – Step by Step Recipe
- Tips for the Perfect Mote Con Huesillo Recipe
- Serving and Enjoying Mote Con Huesillo Recipe
- Health Benefits of Mote Con Huesillo Recipe
- Mote Con Huesillo Variations Around the World
- Conclusion
- Twist on Mote Con Huesillo – Tropical Citrus Version
What is Mote Con Huesillo?
Mote con huesillo is a traditional summer drink in Chile that is alcohol-free. It mixes sweet dried peaches (huesillos) with cooked wheat (mote) in a syrup made of sugar. People in the area have loved this drink for generations, especially when it’s hot outside, because it has a refreshing and slightly chewy texture.
Mote con huesillo has been around since before Columbus came to America. Back then, people in Chile used wheat and dried fruits from their own farms to make healthy drinks. Today, it’s a common food at summer festivals, street fairs, and family get-togethers.
Key Ingredients of Mote Con Huesillo Recipe
| Ingredient | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Huesillos (Dried Peaches) | Main flavor, natural sweetness | Soak overnight for best results |
| Mote (Husked Wheat) | Adds texture and heartiness | Cook until soft but slightly chewy |
| Sugar | Sweetener for syrup | Adjust to taste |
| Water | Base for syrup and to cook mote | Use filtered water for best flavor |
| Optional Spices | Cinnamon sticks, orange peel | Enhances aroma and taste |
Nutritional Note: Mote con huesillo is naturally rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants due to its wheat and peach content. It’s a healthier alternative to sodas and processed summer drinks.
Common Myths and Fun Facts
Trivia: Some regions add a touch of lemon zest or cinnamon, creating unique local variations.
Myth: Mote con huesillo is only for children.
Fact: Adults enjoy it equally, especially as a refreshing summer drink.
Fun Fact: Street vendors in Chile sell more than 50,000 glasses of mote con huesillo every summer.
How to Make Mote Con Huesillo – Step by Step Recipe
Creating the perfect mote con huesillo recipe at home is easier than you think. By following these steps, you’ll achieve the authentic Chilean flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For 4–6 servings:
- 1 cup husked wheat (mote)
- 8–10 dried peaches (huesillos)
- 5 cups water
- 1 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
- Peel of one orange (optional)
- Ice cubes (for serving)
Tip: Choose firm dried peaches with a rich orange color for maximum flavor.
Preparing the Huesillos (Dried Peaches)
- Soak the dried peaches in water overnight to rehydrate.
- Remove pits carefully.
- Simmer them gently in 3 cups of water with sugar and optional cinnamon/orange peel for 20–30 minutes until tender.
- The syrup should thicken slightly.
Pro Tip: Taste the syrup and adjust sweetness gradually. The syrup should be sweet but not overpowering.
Cooking the Mote (Husked Wheat)
- Rinse the wheat under cold water.
- Boil in 2 cups of water for 40–50 minutes or until soft and chewy.
- Drain excess water and set aside.
Tip: Do not overcook mote; it should have a slightly firm texture to complement the softness of the peaches.
Making the Sweet Syrup
- Combine sugar with water (from simmering huesillos) in a saucepan.
- Simmer on low heat until syrup thickens slightly.
- Optionally, add cinnamon or citrus peel for enhanced flavor.
Using the soaking water from huesillos enhances the natural peach flavor in your syrup.
Combining Mote and Huesillo
- Add cooked mote to a large pitcher.
- Add the softened peaches along with syrup.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Serve chilled with ice cubes for a refreshing summer drink.
Serving Tip: Mote con huesillo is traditionally served in tall glasses, allowing the chewy mote and peaches to be enjoyed with every sip.
Optional Variations
Fruity Twist: Mix in dried apricots or fresh peach slices.
Vegan/Sugar-Free: Use agave syrup or stevia instead of sugar.
Spiced Version: Add a star anise or clove during syrup simmering.
Tips for the Perfect Mote Con Huesillo Recipe
Make the drink a few hours in advance to let flavors blend.
Always soak dried peaches overnight for optimal texture.
Use filtered water to avoid off flavors.
Cook mote until tender but slightly firm; overcooked wheat becomes mushy.
Adjust sweetness gradually to suit personal taste.
Serving and Enjoying Mote Con Huesillo Recipe
- Serve in tall glasses with a spoon to enjoy both peaches and mote.
- Pair with light Chilean desserts or pastries for a complete experience.
- Perfect for summer gatherings, parties, or family meals.
Quote: “Mote con huesillo is more than a drink; it’s a taste of Chilean tradition in every sip.” – Local Chilean chef
Health Benefits of Mote Con Huesillo Recipe
| Ingredient | Health Benefit |
|---|---|
| Husked Wheat (Mote) | High in fiber, helps digestion, maintains steady blood sugar |
| Dried Peaches (Huesillos) | Rich in antioxidants, promotes heart health |
| Natural Syrup | Provides quick energy without refined additives |
Extra Tip: This drink is naturally low in fat and can be made with minimal added sugar, making it a healthier alternative to sodas.
Mote Con Huesillo Variations Around the World
Modern Chef Twists: Adding fresh fruit, ginger, or coconut water for a fusion summer drink.
Peru & Bolivia: Similar wheat and fruit drinks called emoliente.
Mote Con Huesillo – Tropical Citrus Twist
Equipment
- Large bowl (for soaking peaches)
- Saucepan
- Medium pot (for cooking mote)
- Strainer
- Large pitcher
- Spoon
- Glasses for serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup husked wheat mote
- 8 –10 dried peaches huesillos
- 5 cups water
- ¾ cup sugar adjust to taste
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Peel of 1 orange
- Peel of 1 lime
- 1- inch fresh ginger sliced thin
- Ice cubes
- Sparkling water optional
Instructions
- Soak Peaches: Soak dried peaches overnight in water.
- Cook Mote: Boil husked wheat until tender but firm. Drain.
- Make Syrup: Simmer soaked peaches with sugar, cinnamon, orange peel, lime peel, and ginger for 20–25 minutes. Remove peels and ginger.
- Combine: Add cooked mote to the syrup with peaches. Stir gently.
- Serve: Chill and serve with ice. Optional: top with sparkling water and garnish with citrus slices.
Notes
- Soaking peaches overnight ensures soft, flavorful fruit.
- Adjust sugar to taste.
- Store in the fridge up to 2–3 days.
- Variations: Add dried apricots, fresh peaches, or a star anise for extra flavor.
- Serve with a spoon to enjoy the chewy mote with syrup and fruit.
Conclusion
Anyone can make the mote con huesillo recipe at home. It’s a delicious and healthy Chilean tradition. You can enjoy this refreshing summer drink anytime with just a few simple ingredients, some patience, and the guidance in this guide.
Please make your own mote con huesillo Recipe today and share it with your family and friends.
Twist on Mote Con Huesillo – Tropical Citrus Version
What Makes It Different:
- Adds a tropical citrus flavor using orange and lime zest.
- Infuses the syrup with ginger for a subtle kick.
- Optional sparkling water for a fizzy, refreshing version.
Ingredients for the Twist (4–6 servings)
- 1 cup husked wheat (mote)
- 8–10 dried peaches (huesillos)
- 5 cups water
- ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Peel of 1 orange
- Peel of 1 lime
- 1-inch fresh ginger, sliced thin
- Sparkling water (optional, for serving)
- Ice cubes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Soak Huesillos: Soak dried peaches overnight to rehydrate.
- Cook Mote: Boil husked wheat until tender but slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
- Make Citrus-Ginger Syrup:
- In a saucepan, simmer the soaked peaches with sugar, cinnamon, orange peel, lime peel, and ginger for 20–25 minutes.
- Remove ginger and peels after simmering.
- Combine Mote and Huesillos: Add the cooked wheat to the syrup along with the peaches.
- Serve:
- For a fizzy version, top with sparkling water just before serving.
- Serve chilled with a slice of lime or orange as garnish.
Why This Twist Works
- The citrus zest brightens the drink and balances the sweetness of the syrup.
- Ginger adds a subtle warmth that contrasts nicely with the chilled drink.
- Sparkling water makes it refreshing and perfect for summer parties.
Tip: This twist is great for kids and adults alike, and it can be a signature drink for summer gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Mote Con Huesillo?
Mote Con Huesillo is a traditional Chilean summer drink made with sweet dried peaches (huesillos) and husked wheat (mote) served in a lightly spiced sugar syrup.
Can I make Mote Con Huesillo in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate it. It tastes best when served chilled.
How long does Mote Con Huesillo last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
Can I use fresh peaches instead of dried?
Yes, fresh peaches can be used, but dried peaches give the authentic sweetness and flavor traditionally associated with this Chilean drink.
Is Mote Con Huesillo healthy?
Yes, it’s naturally high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the wheat and peaches, and it contains no artificial additives.
