Chamoy (sauce)

Chamoy is a variety of savory sauces and condiments in Mexican cuisine. It is made from pickled fruit, chilis and lime, and ranges from a liquid to a paste in consistency. Chamoy also refers to a variety of snacks such as fruit, candy and ice pops, all flavored with this distinctive sauce.

History

The origins of chamoy are believed to be in China, where a similar sauce was made using pickled plums. The sauce was brought to Mexico by Chinese immigrants, where it was adapted to include local ingredients such as Mexican chili peppers.

Ingredients

The primary ingredients in chamoy are fruit, usually apricot, mango or plum, chili peppers, lime juice, and salt. Some versions may also include corn syrup, vinegar, or spices. The fruit is pickled and then ground into a paste, which is then combined with the other ingredients to create the sauce.

Uses

Chamoy is used in a variety of ways in Mexican cuisine. It is often used as a dipping sauce for fresh fruit and vegetables, or drizzled over corn on the cob. It is also a popular flavoring for candy, ice pops, and margaritas. In addition, it is often used as a marinade for meat and seafood.

Variations

There are many variations of chamoy, both in terms of the ingredients used and the consistency of the sauce. Some versions are very thick and paste-like, while others are more liquid. The flavor can also vary, with some versions being very spicy and others more sweet or tangy.

Health Benefits

While chamoy is high in sodium, it is also a good source of vitamin C due to the fruit content. The chili peppers in chamoy also contain capsaicin, which has been shown to have a number of health benefits, including pain relief and reducing inflammation.

See Also

• Mexican cuisine
• Salsa (sauce)
• Hot sauce