Pinole is an ancient superfood created by the Aztecs to fuel their warriors. It was made from roasted ground white or yellow corn that is both filling and nutritious. It is still a staple in the larders of many Mexican Indian tribes, but is most associated with the Tarahumara who live among the deep canyons and rough mountains of Chihuahua, Mexico. The book, Born to Run, is a testament to their phenomenal exploits, legendary runs and rigorous lifestyle. It, and pinole itself, was of great interest in the US running community.
The Tarahumara can run up to 100 miles a day while wearing huarache sandals with soles made of recycled tire treads and by boosting their physical stamina with bajiachi (corn beer) and pinole. Running is their primary means of communication, transportation, and hunting strategy—they run the game to death.
Eddie Sandoval’s family is from Chihuahua, Mexico, originally. Twice a year, they returned to their hometown to visit family and friends and stock up on pinole. Eddie, always an entrepreneur at heart, bought half a ton of pinole made from heirloom blue corn because of its additional health benefits. At the time, he was on his way to earning a BA in business finance at Wichita State College. He created his own pinole-based protein blend to appeal to athletes and processed and packaged it between classes. Soon his dorm room became “Pinole Blue Central.” He entered his popular product into the annual “New Venture Competition” at Wichita State and won! The prize of $10,000 allowed him to get serious with production and packaging.
Benefits of Pinole Blue
- Use in water, milk, or smoothies or as replacement flour for baking.
- Source of all-natural energy for runners, bikers, hikers—any athlete really.
- Rich source of antioxidants and perfect for post-workout recovery. Also contains iron that is needed for the growth and repair of body tissues.
- Complex carbohydrates boost performance by providing constant fuel and long-lasting energy.
- Organic, non-GMO, and gluten free.
- Blue corn is sourced directly from Chihuahua, Mexico, and products are handmade and packaged in Wichita, Kansas.
Pinole Blue Products
Instant Atole Blend
Atole is an ancient hot drink made from corn. Pinole Blue takes the ancient recipe and mixes heirloom blue corn pinole with all-natural spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Have Atole for breakfast or dinner, hot or cold. Mix 2 tablespoons of Atole Instant Mix in 12 ounces of steamed or heated milk or cold water.
Choco Pinole Recovery Blend with Organic Blue Corn & Vegan-Friendly Protein
Choco Pinole Recovery Blend is the perfect source of all-natural energy to power you through the day or through a vigorous workout. Mix 6 tablespoons of Choco Pinole mix in 16 ounces of water, milk, or smoothie. Shake or blend. Drink immediately.
Instant Masa Mix
Masa originates from maize and is used to create fresh tortillas, huaraches and gorditas. This rich quality mix is a great alternative for those who do not have the time to make masa from scratch, but still crave the nostalgic smell and traditional taste of homemade tortillas. Add water to the flour and hand mix it. Divide the dough into small to medium-sized balls. Flatten the balls into a tortilla shape, place onto a griddle or skillet and cook each side for 1-2 minutes over medium heat.
Traditional Stone Ground Blue Corn Tortillas
If you want your tortillas ready made, these are more filling and nutritious than your average store-bought brand, since there are no preservatives. They are also more malleable and hold together better so your taco does not fall apart. Cook tortillas in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 15-30 seconds on each side. You can also put a damp paper towel over the tortillas and microwave them for a few seconds.
For delicious tortilla chips, cut these tortillas into pieces, then cook in an air fryer or skillet.
Azulitas: Organic Blue Corn Mexican Wedding Sugar Cookies
Azulitas are traditional Mexican wedding cookies with a healthier, blue corn twist. Each cookie has the perfect blend of sweetness, while being rich in antioxidants and complex carbs. Dip into coffee or atole or pair with a bottle of red wine.
Pinole Blue Gives Back
Part of the Pinole Blue mission is to honor ancient traditions and unite diverse cultures.
- Pinole Blue donates a portion of every sale to the Tarahumara people by providing food, clothing and other everyday essentials.
- Pinole Blue partners with the Tarahumara community to support female artisans by providing the materials for their beautiful woven bracelets. It then purchases the bracelets to share with their customers. A handcrafted bracelet is enclosed with every purchase over $25.
