Chactado guinea pig is one of the most popular dishes in Peru and highly valued by its inhabitants, both for its delicious flavor and for the proteins this animal contains.
Chactado guinea pig is a dish originating from the Andean region of Peru. The consumption of guinea pigs, or cavies, was common among pre-Columbian civilizations in the area, who considered them an important source of proteins.
Over the years, this peculiar animal became a fundamental ingredient of Peruvian cuisine. The term "chactado" refers to the technique of flattening and frying the guinea pig, which allows it to achieve a crispy texture on the outside and tender on the inside.
Now, we invite you to learn in detail how to prepare this delight. Enjoy your meal!
Guinea pig chactado
Ingredients
2 Eviscerated whole guinea pig
Juice of two lemons
2 teaspoons of Ground garlic
400 grams of Cornstarch
3 cups of Vegetable oil
1 Chopped garlic clove
½ Chopped red onion
2 tablespoons of Milled panca chili
2 teaspoons of Fresh oregano
½ Sweet potato in chunks
24 Cocotte potatoes in halves
2 cups of Vegetable broth
2 tablespoons of Toasted peanuts
1 pinch of Salt
Preparation
Step 1 : The guinea pigs are washed with plenty of water, carefully dried with absorbent paper, and left to rest at room temperature for about two hours.
Step 2 : Then, each is cut into four pieces and seasoned with lemon juice, ground garlic, and salt.
Step 3 : Next, the pieces are coated with cornstarch and browned in a skillet with three cups of hot oil over medium heat for six minutes, until crispy.
Step 4 : In a pot over medium heat, heat the remaining oil and sauté the chopped garlic and onion for four minutes.
Step 5 : Then, add the panca chili and cook for five minutes.
Step 6 : Add a teaspoon of oregano, the sweet potato, and the cocotte potatoes.
Step 7 : Season with a little salt, pour in the vegetable broth, and let cook for 10 minutes, or until the sweet potato and potatoes are cooked and slightly broken down.
Step 8 : Finally, add the remaining oregano and the peanuts.
Step 9 : Remove from heat and serve.
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