Pinolillo

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Pinolillo (or Pinol) is a traditional drink of Nicaragua. It is made of ground toasted corn and a bit of cacao. It can be mixed with water or milk, served sweetened or unsweetened. If unsweetened, it is rather bitter. It can also be used in cooking some local dishes, such as Garrobo con Pinol. The drink usually has a rough, gritty texture but is very tasty.

It is traditionally served out of a gourd made of the shell of the jicaro fruit. Decorative gourds are also made for purchase by tourists as a souvenir; such decorations are rarely found in the homes of native Nicaraguans.

[edit] Pinol and Nicaraguan Culture

Consumption of Pinolillo is so widespread and traditional that the substance has become one of many symbols of Nicaraguan culture. Nicaraguans often refer to themselves as "Pinoleros," either jokingly or with pride. The patriotic phrase "Soy puro Pinolero; ¡Nicaragüense por gracia de Dios!" (I'm a pure Pinolero, Nicaraguan by the grace of God!) is in frequent use, and is often followed by a jocular "Si me corta, sale pinol" (If you cut me, I bleed pinol). The phrase is even sung in the patriotic song, Se Rompen los Fuegos by la Nueva Compañía, a popular Nicaraguan band.