| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 420 | 24g | 6g | 24g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 2g | 25g | 0.45g |
If there’s one thing my Texas upbringing and immense love for dynamic flavor profiles has taught me, it’s the power of a surprise twist on a classic, and that’s just what I’ve found in Peruvian Chicken Soup (Aguadito de Pollo) with Peruvian pepper. Stimulating the taste buds with an intriguing blend of traditional Peruvian elements and the familiar comfort of chicken soup, this recipe brings a tantalizing touch of the unexpected to your dinner table.
A Flavor Adventure in Every Bowl
The primary magic of Peruvian Chicken Soup (Aguadito de Pollo) is conjured with the Peruvian pepper. Among the variety of Peruvian peppers, we’re using ají amarillo which packs a punch of heat and flaunts a uniquely fruity flavor profile. It’s a fantastic addition in a recipe as it nicely balances out the heartiness of the chicken.
This soup is somewhat akin to a Mexican chicken soup, however, the distinguishing factor here is the Peruvian pepper, taking the taste from the familiar to something that is instantly exotic and deliciously adventurous.
Nourishing in Taste and Health
As much as I love this recipe for its taste, equally impressive are the health benefits it brings. The chicken, a great source of lean protein, replenishes strength and supports muscle growth. Carrots, bell peppers, and corn lend their hearty doses of vitamins and fiber – a great way to keep you full for longer and support your overall digestion. Cilantro, known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, further enhances the nutritional value. Lastly, the ají amarillo pepper’s capsaicin content promotes metabolic health, aiding in weight loss.
The Peruvian Chicken Soup pairs well with traditional side dishes like crusty bread or Peruvian corncakes (Maracucha Style). These options can sop up every bit of this sumptuous soup, ensuring none of the deliciousness goes to waste.
Whether you’re seeking a unique twist on chicken soup, or an introduction to Peruvian cuisine, this heart-warming soup is a firm step in the delicious direction. And should you find you’re still looking for an adventure in the world of bold flavors, expand your journey with this Peruvian Causa Relayena.
What You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 large white onion, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 fresh Peruvian peppers (ají amarillo), seeded and chopped
- 1 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 8 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 6 lime wedges, for garnish
Method
Step One
Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
Step Two
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped Peruvian peppers. Cook until the onions are translucent, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step Three
In a blender, combine the cilantro leaves with a bit of the chicken stock and blend until smooth. Add this cilantro mixture to the pot with the onions and peppers.
Step Four
Return the chicken to the pot, add the remaining chicken stock, and bring everything to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer.
Step Five
Add the long grain white rice to the pot and stir well. Continue to simmer, ensuring the chicken is cooked thoroughly and the rice is soft and fully cooked.
Step Six
Add the frozen peas, corn kernels, chopped carrots, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine, and continue cooking until the vegetables are tender.
Step Seven
Just before serving, stir in the lime juice. Season the soup with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step Eight
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a lime wedge. Enjoy this flavourful and hearty Peruvian Chicken Soup (Aguadito de Pollo) with your loved ones.
