Cooking Aji De Gallina: A Peruvian Comfort Food

Thank you for your interest in learning about this delicious recipe! Chicken aji de gallina is a traditional dish of Peruvian cuisine, known for its comforting flavors and deeply rooted history. This article will guide you through the process of making this unique and flavorful stew.

What is Aji De Gallina?

Aji de gallina is a chicken stew that has been a part of Peruvian cuisine for centuries. The dish is cherished for its rich, creamy texture and a perfect blend of spices and flavors. It is considered a type of comfort food in Peru, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients and Preparation

Signature Ingredients

The key ingredient in aji de gallina is aji amarillo, a yellow and mildly spicy pepper. Aji amarillo is not only essential for the dish’s distinctive flavor but also gives it its vibrant yellow color. Other important ingredients include:

Chicken Garlic Walnuts Spices (Turmeric, cumin, and others) Boiled potatoes Rice Black olives

The dish is typically prepared by simmering chicken with aji amarillo peppers, garlic, and a blend of spices. The resulting stew is then thickened with a puree made from walnuts, creating a creamy and indulgent texture.

Historical Background

It is believed that aji de gallina was introduced to Peru in the 16th century by African slaves brought to the country by the Spanish. Initially, the dish was made with leftover chicken and potatoes, reflecting the resourcefulness and creativity of the early settlers.

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Here is a simple and easy recipe for making aji de gallina:

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, cut into pieces 2 aji amarillo peppers, finely chopped 3 cloves of garlic, minced 1/2 cup walnuts, peeled and chopped 1 tsp turmeric 1 tsp cumin 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional) 2 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced Cooked white rice 3-4 black olives

Instructions

Start by preparing the aji amarillo sauce: In a large pot, combine the chopped aji amarillo peppers, minced garlic, turmeric, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Sauté over medium heat until the spices become fragrant. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. In a blender, combine the chopped walnuts and a small amount of the simmering chicken broth. Blend until smooth and creamy. Puree the walnut mixture and add it back to the pot with the chicken. Stir well and let the mixture thicken over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and mix well until everything is well combined. Meanwhile, boil the sliced potatoes. Once they are cooked, drain and add them to the aji de gallina pot, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the potatoes are heated through. Top with cooked white rice, black olives, and additional aji amarillo sauce for serving.

Conclusion

Chicken aji de gallina is a beloved dish that combines traditional Peruvian flavors with simple and easy-to-find ingredients. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to delight your family and friends with its comforting and flavorful taste.

To browse more recipes and detailed instructions, please check out the following link:

Aji De Gallina Recipe - Great British Chefs