FOOD
Indio Viejo-originated from 500 years ago, this dish is a corn stew made with corn flour, tomatoes, baby corn, onion, peppers, aciote, mint, sour oranges and usually chicken or beef (we make this in the comedor for the kids all the time and I absolutely LOVE it.)
Grilled chicken and meats
Tortilla Soup-My friend Nelson got this soup and it was delicious. The soup has strips of tortilla, avocado, chicken, tomatoes, lime, corn and cheese.
Tamales-Pretty simple dish made with corn flour and water to form a rectangular gelatin like substance which is wrapped in and steamed in a banana leaf.
Atol-A tasty hot desert made with corn flour, water, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla.
DRINKS
Chicha- This drink is called the Coca Cola of Corn and is a bright bright pink color. I personally am not a huge fan of the flavor, but people here love it. I've usually seen it being sold in the corner stores in plastic bags. Nicaraguan "chicha de maiz" is made by soaking the corn in water over night. On the following day it is ground and placed in water, red food colouring is added, and the whole mixture is cooked. Once cooled, sugar and more water is added. On the following day one adds further water, sugar and flavoring. Although fermented chicha is available, the unfermented type is the most common. (wikipedia)
Tiste- Very similar to pinolillo, but I think has a bit more sugar and more cacao.
the crowds eating and drinking CORN
Lindsey, Muriel and I at the festival