Pinolillo

Pinolillo (or pinol) is a sweet cornmeal and cacao-based traditional drink in 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.

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.

Pinol and Nicaraguan culture

Pinolillo in powder form.

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, Nicaraguais frequently used. The phrase comes from the patriotic song Nicaragua Mía by Tino López Guerra and has been covered several times. The popular saying is often used by Nicaraguan president, in his speeches.