Tayta Cuzco

Tayta Cuzco, a traditional Peruvian dish, comes from the Andean region, most notably Cuzco. It's a dish that reflects the rich tapestry of Incan heritage, utilizing local ingredients native to this region. The word "Tayta" translates to "father" in Quechua, symbolizing the dish's revered status as a staple in familial and cultural gatherings.

Ingredients for Tayta Cuzco

• Potatoes - 2 large
• Quinoa - 1 cup
• Chicken Breast - 500 grams
• Aji Amarillo Paste - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 large, finely chopped
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Tomato - 2 medium, chopped
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Cumin - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Cilantro - for garnish, chopped

Preparation

1. Prepping the Potatoes

Begin by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into large chunks. These potatoes should be roughly similar in size for even cooking.

2. Cooking the Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any bitterness. In a saucepan, combine the quinoa with two cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it stand for about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

3. Preparing the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Cooking Process

1. Sautéing the Base

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent. Add the aji amarillo paste and tomatoes, stirring for about 3 minutes until fragrant.

2. Cooking the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the pan, stirring well to coat them in the sauce. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through.

3. Combining Ingredients

Add the pre-cooked potatoes into the skillet, folding them gently into the mixture to absorb the flavors. Next, incorporate the cooked quinoa and stir to combine. Season with additional cumin, salt, and black pepper as needed.

How to Enjoy Tayta Cuzco

To truly enjoy Tayta Cuzco, savor each bite with a side of fresh cilantro sprinkled on top for an added flavor punch. This dish pairs well with a refreshing chicha morada, a traditional Peruvian drink made from purple corn. Embrace the cultural essence by enjoying this meal with family or friends, engaging in warm conversations and appreciating the richness of Peruvian cuisine.

Be sure to set your cooking timer to ensure perfect timing of each step, culminating in a beautifully harmonious culinary experience.