18 Picante De Pollo Peruvian Recipe Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Apr 2, 2024
Peruvian cuisine is a vibrant and flavorful fusion of indigenous ingredients and Spanish, African, and Asian influences. One of the most beloved dishes in this gastronomic landscape is the picante de pollo, a hearty and spicy chicken stew that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Lima. This dish is a perfect representation of the country's diverse cultural heritage and its love for bold flavors. If you're ready to take your taste buds on a journey, let's dive into the delicious world of picante de pollo.
The secret to a delicious picante de pollo lies in the use of ají amarillo, a spicy and fruity yellow chili pepper that is native to Peru. This pepper is the star of the dish, providing a fiery kick and a bright yellow color to the stew. Other essential ingredients include chicken, onions, garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, and Peruvian spices such as cumin, oregano, and achiote. These ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
The Cooking Process
To make picante de pollo, start by sautéing chicken pieces in a large pot until they are golden brown. Then, add chopped onions and minced garlic and cook until they are soft and fragrant. Next, add diced tomatoes and let them cook down until they form a thick sauce. Now, it's time to add the star ingredient - ají amarillo paste. This paste is made by blending the chili pepper with other aromatics and is readily available in most Latin American grocery stores. You can adjust the amount of paste according to your spice preference.
After adding the ají amarillo paste, add some water or chicken broth to the pot and let the stew simmer for about 20 minutes. During this time, the flavors will develop and the chicken will become tender. Towards the end, add cubed potatoes and let them cook until they are fork-tender. This will also help thicken the stew. Finally, add a touch of lime juice to brighten up the flavors and serve the picante de pollo hot with a side of rice and salsa criolla, a fresh and tangy onion and tomato salsa.
Final Thoughts
Picante de pollo is a dish that is beloved by Peruvians and has gained popularity all over the world. Its bold and spicy flavors are a testament to the country's diverse culinary heritage and its love for vibrant dishes. So, the next time you're craving something hearty and delicious, give this Peruvian recipe a try and experience the explosion of flavors for yourself!
