Pinole (also spelled pinol) is a nutrient-dense food product made from roasted ground maize. The name originates from the Nahuatl word pinolli, which translates to cornmeal. It is primarily used as an ingredient in various foods, including tortillas, baked goods, cereals, and beverages.
The production of pinole is traditionally performed by hand using wood-burning adobe ovens along with a stone and pestle. While it remains a staple in certain rural regions of Latin America, it is also recognized as the national beverage of Nicaragua. In culinary applications, the powder can be mixed with ingredients such as cocoa, agave, cinnamon, chia seeds, or vanilla to create a drink known as pinolillo.