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Cau Cau con Pollo (Chicken Cau Cau) Recipe: A Taste of Peru
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty dish, look no further than Cau Cau con Pollo, or Chicken Cau Cau! This popular Peruvian recipe is a delightful mix of chicken, potatoes, and spices that warms your heart and tummy. Its roots reach deep into Peruvian culture, where it is enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings.
What makes Cau Cau so special? It’s not just the wonderful flavors but also the vibrant history behind it. Originally, this dish has influences from indigenous cultures and Spanish colonial cuisine, making it a perfect representation of Peru’s rich culinary heritage. With its bright yellow color from turmeric and satisfying texture, it’s no wonder that Chicken Cau Cau is loved by many!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken, diced | 500 grams |
| Potatoes, diced | 2 medium |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Turmeric powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Green peas | 1 cup (optional) |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping your chicken, potatoes, and onion. Make sure everything is ready before you start cooking.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s golden brown.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
- Season: Add the turmeric and cumin, stirring to coat the chicken and onions evenly. This will give your dish a beautiful golden color and rich flavor.
- Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Cover and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Final Touch: Stir in the green peas (if using) and simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Once everything is cooked and flavors have combined, serve your Cau Cau con Pollo hot with rice or bread on the side!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 30 grams | 60% |
| Carbohydrates | 40 grams | 13% |
| Fats | 10 grams | 15% |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV | – |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV | – |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Cau Cau: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, so consider making a large batch for leftovers!
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
FAQs
What is Cau Cau?
Cau Cau is a traditional Peruvian dish made with chicken, potatoes, and spices, known for its vibrant yellow color from turmeric.
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef or even fish, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Is Cau Cau spicy?
It’s not typically spicy, but you can add hot peppers if you prefer heat.
How long does it take to make Cau Cau?
From start to finish, you can prepare Cau Cau con Pollo in about an hour.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Definitely! Frozen peas work great in this recipe, just add them towards the end of cooking.
What can I serve with Cau Cau?
This dish pairs wonderfully with white rice or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3-4 days.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! You can make a vegetarian version using chickpeas and more vegetables in place of chicken.
What is the origin of Cau Cau?
Cau Cau originated in Peru, drawing from both indigenous and Spanish culinary traditions, making it a delicious cultural fusion.
Is Cau Cau healthy?
Yes! It’s relatively low in calories and packed with protein and vitamins from the ingredients.
Can children eat Cau Cau?
Yes, it’s a family-friendly dish. Just adjust the spices if preferred!
What is a common mistake to avoid?
Avoid overcooking the potatoes; they should hold their shape and not turn mushy.
How can I enhance the flavor further?
You can add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley right before serving for an extra burst of flavor!
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