Sazón Escabechado
Introduction to Sazón Escabechado
Sazón Escabechado is a flavorful and vibrant Latin American dish rooted in rich history and tradition. The word "escabechado" originates from the Arabic "al-sikbaj," which translates to "simmered in vinegar". Throughout centuries, the dish has evolved by incorporating various cultural influences and is enjoyed in many households across Latin America. This dish primarily features meat or fish, marinated and cooked in a seasoned mixture of vinegar and spices, creating a tangy and spicy flavor profile.
Typically served during celebrations or family gatherings, Sazón Escabechado brings people together with its inviting aromas and delightful tastes, representing a culinary heritage that continues to thrive. In this version, we focus on a vibrant chicken-based escabechado with influences from across Latin America, introducing a tangy twist to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 3-4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup vinegar
- 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 green bell pepper, julienned
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
- 1 packet of sazón seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 cups water
Preparation
1. Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and black pepper. Set the chicken aside and allow it to come to room temperature while you prepare the marinade.
2. Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients: vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, thinly sliced onions, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, carrots, bay leaves, peppercorns, and one packet of sazón seasoning. Stir to thoroughly combine the ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are fully immersed. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow maximum flavor absorption.
Cooking Process
4. Cooking the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to cook it. This allows the chicken to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking. Preheat a grill or large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid. Reserve the marinade for cooking. Cook the chicken for approximately 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
5. Prepare the Escabechado Sauce
After cooking the chicken, reduce the heat to medium and add the reserved marinade to the skillet. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes to reduce the sauce and soften the vegetables.
6. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, coating it with the vinegar and spice sauce. Cover and let it simmer with the sauce for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and enrich the dish.
7. Check Cooking Time
Throughout the cooking process, ensure the sauce doesn't evaporate too quickly. If needed, add a little water to prevent burning and maintain the right consistency. Use a cooking timer to keep track of your intervals.
Enjoying the Meal
Your flavorful Sazón Escabechado is ready to be served! This dish pairs beautifully with warm rice, a crisp salad, or freshly baked bread. The tangy sauce can be drizzled over these sides to enhance the flavor experience.
Serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the explosion of vibrant flavors that take you on a journey through the rich tapestry of Latin American cuisine.
Sazón Escabechado is perfect for family meals or special occasions, bringing a touch of tradition and celebration to your table. Share this delightful dish with loved ones and create cherished memories with every bite.