Sazón Limeña

Introduction to Sazón Limeña

Sazón Limeña is a traditional Peruvian dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Lima's culinary palette. Known for its rich taste and aromatic spices, this dish traces its origins back to a fusion of indigenous ingredients and Spanish influence. Limeña, reflecting the style of cooking from Lima, showcases the diverse gastronomic heritage of Peru. This recipe invites you to explore the depth of Peruvian cuisine, providing a delightful blend of vegetables, spices, and protein that together create a symphony of flavors.

The history of Sazón Limeña is as rich as its flavor, dating back centuries when Peru began to develop its unique culinary identity. This dish, like many others from Peru, incorporates ingredients such as aji amarillo, a yellow chili pepper that is fundamental to Peruvian cooking, and cilantro, which adds freshness to the dish. Over time, this dish has evolved but remains deeply rooted in the tradition and culture of Peru.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast - 500g, cut into cubes
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Aji amarillo paste - 2 tablespoons
• Cilantro - 1/2 cup, chopped
• Lime - 1, juiced
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Quinoa - 200g, cooked
• Bell pepper - 1, diced
• Peas - 100g
• Carrots - 1, diced
• Corn kernels - 100g
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Begin by cleaning and dicing the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes. Finely chop the onion and cilantro, mince the garlic, dice the bell pepper and carrot. Finally, juice the lime and set these ingredients aside.

Step 2: Creating the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the lime juice with a tablespoon of aji amarillo paste, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes to this marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors fully.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Sautéing the Aromatics

In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 2 minutes, or until fragrant.

Step 4: Cooking the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken breast into the pan. Cook the chicken until it is fully cooked through and no longer pink inside, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Combining Vegetables and Aji Amarillo

Once the chicken is cooked, add the remaining aji amarillo paste, bell pepper, peas, carrots, and corn kernels to the pan. Mix well to combine all the components and allow the vegetables to cook until they are tender-crisp, approximately 5 minutes.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Stir in the cooked quinoa and chopped cilantro into the pan. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Ensure everything is well combined and remove from heat.

Serving Suggestions

Sazón Limeña is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. Serve it hot, garnished with a few extra sprigs of cilantro and a wedge of lime on the side for an added burst of freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or can be served on its own as a complete meal thanks to the protein and vegetable components.

Enjoying Your Meal

As you savor the flavors of Sazón Limeña, take a moment to appreciate its cultural significance. The use of aji amarillo and other native ingredients reflects Peru’s culinary history and the innovative spirit of its people. Whether inspiring your cooking or simply delighting in the delicious taste, Sazón Limeña is not only a meal but a connection to the rich tapestry of Peruvian heritage.