Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with Aguadito de Pollo, a traditional Peruvian chicken soup that's as comforting as it is delicious. This hearty soup combines tender chicken, rice, and vegetables, accented with the freshness of cilantro and lime. It's not just a soup; it's a meal that fills the soul with warmth and the heart with joy.
Delicious, Hearty, and Soul-Warming
Aguadito de Pollo is known for its rich and aromatic broth that combines classic Peruvian spices with fresh vegetables and succulent chicken. Perfect for any day of the year, this soup is especially beloved during the cold months and is often served at gatherings to revive the spirits. Let's embark on this culinary journey to create a pot of comforting Peruvian chicken soup.
Pro Tips for Crafting the Perfect Aguadito de Pollo
- Flavor Base: Start with sautéing onions and bell peppers until they are just soft, which helps to release their natural sweetness and flavors, enhancing the soup’s base.
- Spice Right: Cumin and paprika are essential for the authentic Peruvian taste. Cooking them with garlic for a minute helps unlock their aromas, infusing the broth with deep, smoky undertones.
- Freshness First: Adding cilantro early in the cooking process and a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving captures the essence of Aguadito de Pollo, giving it its distinctive fresh and zesty flavor.
- Texture Talk: For perfectly cooked rice, make sure to simmer it just until tender. This keeps the grains from becoming mushy while ensuring they soak up the flavorful broth.
- Pea Addition: Add the peas towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and slight crunch, enhancing the texture contrast in your soup.
Aguadito de Pollo Recipe:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
- Serving: 4 servings
- Equipment: Large pot
This soup is a beautiful way to bring the taste of Peru to your table, perfect for nourishing the body and delighting the senses.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup rice
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 1 cup peas
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Start the Sauté: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Spice it Up: Add the garlic, cumin, and paprika, and sauté for one more minute until it’s aromatic.
- Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and water, then bring to a boil.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix in the cilantro, chicken, rice, and carrot. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook until the rice is tender, which should take about 20 minutes.
- Final Touches: Add the peas and simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Finish with Flair: Remove from heat, stir in the lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you like, garnish with more cilantro.
Perfectly Comforting
Aguadito de Pollo is more than a meal; it’s a comforting treat that's bursting with flavor. Ideal for a family dinner or as a warming meal for chilly evenings, this soup will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Peru. Enjoy the vibrant, soul-soothing flavors of this traditional dish and let it become a beloved part of your cooking repertoire.
