Cusco's Mystica Treat

About Cusco's Mystica Treat

Originating from the heart of Peru, Cusco's Mystica Treat is a revered dish that weaves together the vibrant flavors of the Andes. Enriched with history and tradition, this dish dates back to the time of the Inca Empire. It was traditionally prepared during important festivals and used as an offering to the gods. Today, it stands as a symbol of cultural identity and culinary excellence, capturing the mystique and spirit of ancient Cusco.

Ingredients

• Quinoa - 1 cup
• Chicken - 500g, diced
• Sweet Potato - 2, medium-sized
• Red Pepper - 1, diced
• Onion - 1, finely chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Lime - 1
• Cilantro - a handful, chopped
• Cumin - 1 tsp
• Paprika - 1 tsp
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Olive Oil - 2 tbsp
• Water - 2 cups

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

• Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness and set it aside.
• Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
• Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
• Dice the red pepper and set aside with other ingredients.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

• In a bowl, mix the diced chicken with juice of the lime, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
• Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Cooking the Quinoa

• In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
• Add the rinsed quinoa and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is fluffy and the water is absorbed.
• Fluff the quinoa with a fork and set aside.

Step 4: Sautéing the Vegetables

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
• Stir in the red pepper and sweet potatoes. Cook for about 10-12 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender but not mushy.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken

• After removing the vegetables, in the same skillet, add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-8 minutes until it is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Combining Everything

• Mix the cooked quinoa, sautéed vegetables, and chicken together in the skillet.
• Gently toss all ingredients until well combined and heated through.

Enjoying Cusco's Mystica Treat

This rich and hearty dish is a celebration of Peruvian tradition and culture. Serve it warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top. For added authenticity, enjoy it with a side of freshly prepared lime wedges. Perfect for family occasions, let the spirit of the Andes fill your dining table with joy and warmth.

For optimal enjoyment, allocate approximately 1 hour 15 minutes for the cooking timer to capture both the preparation and cooking phases. Savor the cultural blend of spices and the hearty satisfaction of this remarkable dish!