A traditional Panamanian drink — Chicheme is the sweet, milky corn refreshment of Panama’s Azuero region, beloved from street carts to family kitchens. Hominy is simmered slowly with cinnamon until the kernels are plump and tender, then cooled and finished with milk, sugar and a snowfall of nutmeg. Ice cold, it is the drink of Panama’s ferias and hot afternoons.
Chicheme
A traditional Panamanian drink — Chicheme is the sweet, milky corn refreshment of Panama’s Azuero region, beloved from street carts to family kitchens.

Step by stepInstructions
- Rinse the hominy well, checking for any pebbles; place it in a large pot with the water, cinnamon sticks and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer gently, uncovered, until the kernels are very soft and starting to split, about 1½ to 2 hours, adding hot water as needed.
- Stir in the sugar until dissolved, then remove from the heat and let cool completely; discard the cinnamon sticks.
- Stir in the evaporated milk, condensed milk, vanilla and nutmeg, and refrigerate until very cold, at least 2 hours.
- Serve in tall glasses over ice, dusted with extra nutmeg.
💡 Chef tips & storage
The corn must be cooked until it blooms and splits slightly — that is when chicheme gets its characteristic texture. Adjust the sweetness to taste; some Panamanians prefer it barely sweet.

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