Peruvian Chicken with Plums

Peruvian Chicken with Plums Recipe

Region / culture: Peru | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Peruvian Chicken with Plums is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the sweetness of fresh California plums. This recipe is a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, making it a favorite among many food enthusiasts.

History

This recipe is inspired by traditional Peruvian cuisine, which is known for its bold flavors and unique ingredients. The combination of chicken and plums is a popular choice in Peruvian cooking, as it creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

3.5 lb (1.59 kg) skinned chicken, cut up
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup onions, chopped
1 cup diced green bell peppers
2 tsp garlic cloves, minced
1 x tomato, chopped
1 x seeded, diced fresh jalapeno pepper
0.25 tsp powdered saffron, Optional
3.5 cup low sodium chicken stock
1 x bay leaf
4 x quartered fresh California plums
4 cup cooked brown rice

How to prepare

Saute the chicken in oil in a large nonstick skillet, turning it often until it becomes golden brown on all sides, which should take about 12 minutes.
Next, add the onion, green pepper, and garlic to the skillet and saute for an additional 2 minutes.
After that, add the tomato, jalapeno, saffron, stock, and bay leaf to the skillet.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Now, add the plums and rice to the skillet.
Finally, heat the dish before serving.

Variations

You can add other fruits such as apricots or peaches for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the chicken well before adding the other ingredients, as this will help to develop a rich flavor in the dish.

- Be sure to use low sodium chicken stock to control the saltiness of the dish.

- Adjust the amount of jalapeno pepper to suit your spice preference.

- For a richer flavor, you can add a pinch of powdered saffron to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

This dish can be served with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

This dish is cooked using sauteing and simmering techniques.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use boneless chicken thighs instead of skinned chicken for a juicier result.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Per serving, this dish contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Per serving, this dish contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Per serving, this dish contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Per serving, this dish contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This dish contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

Peruvian Chicken with Plums is a nutritious dish that is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a well-balanced meal that is both delicious and satisfying.

Summary

Peruvian Chicken with Plums is a delightful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its unique combination of flavors and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is a must-try for any food lover.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was during my travels in Peru, a country known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. I was wandering through a bustling market in Lima, surrounded by colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handmade textiles.

As I made my way through the maze of vendors, a sweet aroma wafted through the air, leading me to a small food stall tucked away in a corner. There, a kind elderly woman was busy cooking up a storm, her hands moving with practiced ease as she prepared a dish that looked and smelled absolutely divine.

Intrigued, I approached the woman and struck up a conversation with her. She told me that she was making Peruvian Chicken with Plums, a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations in her family. Curious to learn more, I asked if she would be willing to share the recipe with me.

To my delight, the woman agreed, and we spent the next few hours in her humble kitchen, where she patiently guided me through the steps of preparing the dish. I watched intently as she seasoned the chicken with a blend of fragrant spices, marinated it in a tangy mixture of lime juice and vinegar, and finally simmered it with plump, juicy plums until it was tender and bursting with flavor.

As we sat down to enjoy the meal together, I was struck by how a simple dish could tell such a rich and colorful story. The Peruvian Chicken with Plums was a perfect reflection of the country itself – bold, vibrant, and full of warmth.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to recreate the dish for my own family and friends. I made a few tweaks and adjustments to the recipe, adding my own personal touch while still staying true to the traditional flavors of Peru. The result was a dish that quickly became a favorite among my loved ones, who couldn't get enough of the savory-sweet combination of tender chicken and juicy plums.

Over the years, I have continued to make Peruvian Chicken with Plums, each time recalling the sights, sounds, and smells of that bustling market in Lima. It has become a special dish for me, a reminder of the kindness and generosity of the people I met on my travels, and the joy of discovering new flavors and culinary traditions.

I often think back to that day in Peru, when I stumbled upon a hidden gem in a bustling market and was welcomed into a stranger's kitchen with open arms. It was a moment that changed me, that opened my eyes to the beauty of sharing food and stories with others, and that taught me the true power of a simple recipe to connect us across cultures and generations.

So whenever I make Peruvian Chicken with Plums, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit of adventure, knowing that each bite carries with it a piece of the vibrant tapestry that is the world of food and flavors. And I hope that as you savor this dish, you too will be transported to faraway lands, where the taste of tradition and the warmth of hospitality are always present.