Cuy Chactado is a typical dish from the Andean region of Peru and a true emblem of Peruvian cuisine. Its origin is in the most profound culinary traditions of many centuries of the Andean cultures of the country.
Its characteristic preparation, its texture and its combination of flavors have made cuy chactado a delicacy that delights those who try it for the first time. This delicious dish has transcended the borders of Peru and in many countries it is appreciated as another wonder of Peruvian gastronomy.
History of cuy chactado
It is known that the breeding of this little animal dates back 4000 years before our era. For the Incas, it was one of their favorite foods. Not only was it a primary food for them, but it was also an offering to the gods of their beliefs. They roasted it on very hot stones, especially on days when celebrations and thanksgiving to Pachamama or Mother Earth were celebrated. For the curacas or chieftains of the Incas, roasted guinea pig was a source of energy and vitality necessary to better fulfill their functions.
Ingredients of the traditional recipe for chactado guinea pig
- The number of guinea pigs you need will depend on the number of diners.
- Garlic.
- Yellow chili.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Lemon, essential for the marinade due to its refreshing and citrus touch.
- Corn flour should be used so that they are golden and crispy when chactado or fried.
Preparation
- Wash each guinea pig very well and then dry them.
- Marinate them for at least an hour with the mixture of chili peppers, garlic, pepper, salt, and lemon juice.
- Pass them very well, completely covering them, using corn flour so that they are golden and crispy when fried.
- Fry them in plenty of very hot vegetable oil.
- You can accompany them with any salad of your choice, steamed or fried potatoes, and a chili sauce to enhance their flavor.
Where to try cuy chactado in Peru
Cuy is offered and consumed throughout Peru. There are many places where you can enjoy it as a national specialty. Here we recommend some establishments where you can try cuy chactado if you haven't already done so.
Arequipa
La Nueva Palomino: Located at Leoncio Prado 122, Yanahuara, Arequipa, this spicy restaurant is known for offering dishes originating from this region of Peru. Its menu has a wide variety of exquisite starters, such as shrimp soup and stuffed rocoto, among others. At La Nueva Palomino, you can't miss that ancient delicacy called cuy chactado, which has the best sides. As a drink to enjoy, you can accompany it with a chicha de jora or non-alcoholic chicha morada.
Cusco
Pachapapa: In an old house in the San Blas neighborhood, Carmen Bajo 120, in the city of Cusco, you will find a famous restaurant. The main feature of their kitchen is the wood-burning oven on their patio. Their menu offers a wide variety of typical Cusco dishes such as chicharrones, ají de gallina, ceviche, and roasted guinea pig.
When you are in Cusco, take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy all of the delicacies that are cooked in their clay oven, including the tasty house pizzas.
Mr. Cuy: A restaurant located in the historic center of Cusco, where you will find the most emblematic dishes featuring guinea pig.
Machu Picchu
Cuy Chef: Located on Ave Pachacutec, Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu 08681 Peru, they have a menu rich in traditional food, including the chactado guinea pig.
Pueblo Viejo Machupicchu: Located on Av. Pachacutec S/N, Aguas Calientes 08681 - Machu Picchu. This is the perfect place to eat typical Andean dishes fused with other Peruvian delicacies. Be sure to try the chuy chactado (fried rice) served at this restaurant.
