Sharing today, I’m not only going to tell you how to prepare a traditional recipe from Peruvian cuisine, but also about the characteristics and origin of one of the main ingredients in this dish. It’s called olluquito con charqui, a traditional food from the Peruvian Andes that is very popular throughout Peru. In addition to charqui, the recipe features olluco, a type of potato whose name comes from the Quechua word 'ulluku,' meaning 'smooth potato,'...
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Wash the ollucos thoroughly, cut them horizontally, and slice them into thin strips.
Place the charqui in a skillet and toast it on both sides.
Remove it from the skillet, shred the meat, and place it in a bowl covered with water to rehydrate.
In a pot, heat a little oil and sauté the chopped onion and garlic.
Season with black pepper, cumin, and ají panca.
Add the rehydrated charqui to the pot, along with the chalona, which should be cut into thin strips and previously fried.
Cook for five minutes over low heat.
Add the sliced ollucos to the pot, along with a little water.
Continue cooking for 15 to 20 minutes or until the ollucos are tender.
Remove from heat and adjust the salt if necessary.
For a more authentic flavor, use freshly made ají panca paste instead of store-bought.
If you cannot find ollucos, you can substitute with a similar starchy root vegetable, but the flavor will differ.
Serve with freshly cooked rice to balance the flavors of the dish.
What is charqui?
Charqui is dried salted meat, typically beef, that is a traditional ingredient in Peruvian cuisine.
Can I substitute olluco with another ingredient?
If you cannot find olluco, you can use a similar starchy root vegetable, but the flavor and texture will differ.
What is ají panca?
Ají panca is a Peruvian red chili paste made from dried red peppers. It has a mild heat and a smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the charqui and chalona and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
What side dish pairs well with olluquito con charqui?
Traditionally, this dish is served with cooked rice, which complements the flavors and textures well.
