Aji de Gallina Recipe of Peru | Peruvian Spicy Chicken Stew Recipe

Peru is a country rich in history, culture, and culinary traditions, offering a diverse array of dishes influenced by Indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian flavors. Among its many iconic dishes, Aji de Gallina stands out as a beloved and comforting meal that has been enjoyed for generations. This creamy, flavorful dish combines shredded chicken with a luscious yellow pepper sauce, creating a unique balance of spice, richness, and warmth.

Aji de Gallina, which translates to "Hen Chili" in English, has its roots in colonial Peru, where European and Indigenous ingredients blended to form new, flavorful creations. The dish is believed to have been inspired by a Spanish recipe for shredded chicken in a creamy almond sauce, but over time, Peruvian ingredients such as ají amarillo (yellow chili pepper) and native spices transformed it into a uniquely Peruvian dish. The vibrant yellow hue of the sauce comes from ají amarillo, a chili pepper that provides a mild yet distinctive heat, essential to Peruvian cuisine.

The preparation of Aji de Gallina is a testament to the harmony of flavors in Peruvian cooking. The sauce, made from soaked bread or crackers blended with milk, walnuts, and cheese, gives the dish a rich and velvety texture. Garlic, onions, and a touch of turmeric enhance the depth of flavor, while the shredded chicken absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully. Traditionally, Aji de Gallina is served with white rice, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and black olives, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

What makes Aji de Gallina truly special is its ability to bring people together. It is often prepared for family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions, symbolizing comfort and tradition. While the dish has evolved over time, its essence remains the same—a heartwarming, flavorful recipe that showcases the best of Peruvian cuisine.

Whether you are new to Peruvian food or a seasoned enthusiast, Aji de Gallina is a must-try dish that embodies the rich history and vibrant flavors of Peru. With its creamy consistency, mild heat, and irresistible taste, this dish is a perfect introduction to the world of Peruvian gastronomy. In the following recipe, you’ll learn how to prepare Aji de Gallina at home, bringing a taste of Peru to your kitchen.

Here is another recipe of Peru for you:

 Authentic Lomo Saltado Recipe of Peru | Peruvian Beef Stir Fry Recipe

Ingredients of Aji de Gallina recipe

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (approximately 500g)
• 4 cups water (for boiling)
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 3 ají amarillo peppers (seeds removed, finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (for color and flavor)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 slices white bread (crust removed)
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• ½ cup chicken broth (from boiled chicken)
• ½ cup walnuts (finely ground)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Serving:

• 4 cups cooked white rice
• 4 boiled potatoes (sliced)
• 2 hard-boiled eggs (sliced)
• 8 black olives (whole or sliced)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions of making Aji de Gallina:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

  1.Take a large  pot and  bring 4 cups of water to a boil in it. Add chicken breasts and salt.

  2. Cook this chicken breasts for about 20 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.

  3. Remove the chicken from the pot when it is fully cooked  and let it cool. Reserve ½ cup of the chicken broth for the sauce.

  4. Once cool, shred the chicken into thin strips using a fork or your hands. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread Mixture

  1. In a bowl, soak the white bread slices in evaporated milk for 5 minutes.

  2. Blend the mixture into a smooth paste. This will help thicken the sauce and add creaminess.

Step 3: Make the Aji Sauce

  1.Take  2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a pan and heat it over medium heat.

  2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté the onions until it  turn soft and translucent.

  3. Stir in ají amarillo peppers, turmeric, cumin, and black pepper. Cook all for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

  4. Add the bread and milk mixture, followed by the reserved chicken broth, ground walnuts, and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously.

  5. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it becomes thick. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 4: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

  1. Add the shredded chicken into the sauce and mix well.

  2. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, ensuring the chicken absorbs all the rich flavors.

Serving Aji de Gallina

  1. Place a portion of white rice on one side of the plate.

  2. Arrange boiled potato slices on the other side.

  3. Spoon the creamy Aji de Gallina mixture over the potatoes.

  4. Garnish with hard-boiled egg slices, black olives, and fresh parsley.

  5. Serve hot and enjoy the authentic taste of Peru!

Tips and Variations

• If you can't find ají amarillo, substitute with a mix of yellow bell peppers and a dash of chili powder.

• For a richer flavor, you can add a little more Parmesan cheese or a splash of cream.

• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less ají amarillo to suit your taste.

• You can store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Aji de Gallina is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of Peru’s culinary heritage. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and mild spice makes it a favorite among both locals and international food lovers. Whether served at family gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a comforting meal, Aji de Gallina never fails to impress.

Now that you have the authentic recipe, try making it at home and enjoy a delicious taste of Peru!

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Here are some Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) of Aji de Gallina of Peru

FAQ 1 : What is Aji de Gallina?

Aji de Gallina is a traditional Peruvian dish made with shredded chicken in a rich, creamy yellow chili pepper sauce. The dish is typically served with white rice, boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and black olives. It is known for its comforting texture and flavorful blend of spices.

FAQ 2 : What is the key ingredient that gives Aji de Gallina its distinct color and flavor?

The key ingredient is ají amarillo (Peruvian yellow chili pepper). It gives the dish its vibrant yellow color and mild, slightly fruity heat, which is essential to authentic Peruvian cuisine. If ají amarillo is not available, yellow bell peppers with a dash of chili powder can be used as a substitute.

FAQ 3 : Can I make Aji de Gallina without spicy peppers?

Yes, you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of ají amarillo or substitute it with yellow bell peppers for the color without the heat. This way, you can still enjoy the creamy texture and rich flavors of the dish.

FAQ 4 : What type of chicken is best for Aji de Gallina?

Traditionally, hen meat (gallina) was used, but most modern recipes use boneless chicken breasts or chicken thighs because they cook faster and are easier to shred. You can choose any part of the chicken as long as it is tender and easy to pull apart.

FAQ 5 : How long does it take to make Aji de Gallina?

On average, preparing Aji de Gallina takes about 1 hour, including boiling the chicken, making the creamy sauce, and combining the ingredients. It is relatively simple, and the time can be shortened by using pre-cooked or leftover chicken.

FAQ 6 : What are some common side dishes served with Aji de Gallina?

Aji de Gallina is traditionally served with white rice and boiled potatoes. It is garnished with hard-boiled eggs, black olives, and fresh parsley. Some people also enjoy it with toasted bread or a side salad for added texture.