Sol de Sabor
Introduction to Sol de Sabor
The dish Sol de Sabor originated in the vibrant streets of Medellín, Colombia. Known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors, this delightful dish is a celebration of Colombian culinary traditions. The name translates to "Sun of Flavor," capturing its essence of warmth and zest. It combines an eclectic mix of ingredients, drawing from the country's diverse topography, which includes lush rainforests, majestic mountains, and sprawling plains. Each bite of Sol de Sabor tells a story of passion, history, and an amalgamation of cultural influences.
Ingredients
- Chicken - 500g
- Bell Peppers - 2 (red and yellow)
- Onion - 1 large, chopped
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Tomatoes - 4, diced
- Cumin - 1 teaspoon
- Coriander - 1 teaspoon
- Lime - juice of 1
- Cilantro - a bunch, chopped
- Rice - 2 cups
- Black Beans - 1 can, drained
- Avocado - 2, sliced
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper to taste
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
Preparation
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the lime juice, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare your vegetables by chopping the onion and bell peppers, mincing the garlic, and dicing the tomatoes.
Cooking the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces and sear until they are golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
Cooking the Vegetables
In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the onion and sauté until translucent. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and cumin, stirring for another 2-3 minutes until everything is fragrant and softened. Mix in the tomatoes and coriander. Let it simmer until the mixture becomes slightly thickened, about 8-10 minutes.
Cooking the Rice
In a separate pot, prepare the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, stir in the drained black beans and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Assembling the Sol de Sabor
Now, slice the rested chicken and return to the pan with the vegetables. Stir to combine and ensure the chicken is well-coated with the flavorful sauce. Serve a generous portion of the rice and black beans mixture on each plate, and top with the chicken and vegetable medley. Garnish with fresh cilantro and slices of avocado.
Enjoying Sol de Sabor
To fully enjoy Sol de Sabor, gather around the table with friends and family, and embrace the joyful atmosphere of Colombian dining. The vibrant colors and bold flavors of this dish evoke a sense of warmth and celebration. Pair it with a refreshing tropical drink like Lulo juice or a traditional Colombian beer to complete this authentic culinary experience.
Bon appétit!
Feel free to set a cooking timer to ensure every step is perfectly timed.