Tai

Tai is a beverage originating in the Vatupic subcontinent, particularly in the nation of Ta'aroha. The base ingredient of the drink is Kanasa purple maize, a variety of the plant which is abundantly grown and harvested in that nation. Its history and consumption was already widespread in pre-contact times, and prior to the establishment of the Aunic Empire. Its current preparation can be traced through different works of the 18th and 19th centuries. The oldest references to its preparation as it is known today comes from writings originating in the mid-1570s.

Preparation
Tai sóva is a Kanasa delicacy that is derived from tai by adding a binder such as potato or corn starch to the traditional preparation. The porridge-like substance often has dried or fresh fruits added, and is a common treat for children and the elderly.
 * Traditional preparation consists of boiling the Kanasa purple corn in water along with peels and pieces of one's desired fruit, along with spices. (citrus rings, pieces of quince, cloves, and cumin are common favorites).  The boiled mixture is strained and cooled, after which sugar or honey is added, along with chopped fruit of one's preference.  Unripe mangoes and mint are more modern additions that have become popular, introduced from the old world.
 * Pre-manufactured is sold in two different ways: 1) as packets of dry powder manufactured with a base of sugar, acidifiers, and artificial flavor, to which the preparer only ads water. Consumption of this medium is massive due to its low cost and sweet taste, although this way it does not contain the antioxidants derived from purple maize in boiling.  2) as bags of purple concentrate (syrup) intended for large-scale distribution.  This version contains all the extract from its constituent fruits, retaining their flavor ad aroma.  The preparer need only add water and lemon/lime juice.
 * Manufactured product consists of the drink produced in a large-scale industrialized form that is sold in bottles or cans, in the style of soft drinks.

Cultural impact
Second only to Ka'a, tai is considered to be a representative drink of Kanasa cuisine, as it is refreshing and versatile for pairing. It combines in any occasion of consumption, individually or as a group, and is consumed by both the young and old. In Kanasa communities, nursing mothers and the elderly commonly drink a version of beverage fortified by refined maize hominy flour or sweet potato flour. The resulting blends vary in texture, ranging from a porridge to a thinner, more liquid consistency. It is often paired with rice, wheat, or oatmeal.