Long before the Incas established their empire, the inhabitants of ancient cultures had already mastered the art of utilizing the land's bounty. This deep connection to the land has given birth to many dishes that have stood the test of time, albeit with variations and innovations. One such dish is the traditional Inchicapi, a culinary treasure with a rich historical significance.
History of Inchicapi
The Inchicapi is of pre-Hispanic origin, long before the Spanish conquest. It was first prepared in the jungle area of Peru and has not stopped being made since; its consumption has spread to other regions of the country.
The name inchicapi comes from the Quechua inchic (peanut) and api (porridge). It is known that regions such as Loreto, Ucayali, and San Martín are where it specifically originated. And when it spread throughout the country, it became an emblematic dish of Peruvian cuisine.
The traditional recipe for inchicapi
- Four pieces of chicken.
- One and a half liters of water.
- 200 grams of roasted peanuts.
- A tablespoon of garlic.
- Two sweet peppers.
- One onion.
- 100 grams of corn flour.
- 10 cilantro leaves.
- Food coloring to taste, optional.
- Salt to taste.
Preparation
- To prepare the chicken broth, boil the chicken pieces in water with a bit of salt for an hour. When they are soft, set them aside.
- Blend the cilantro, garlic, sweet peppers, onion, roasted peanuts, and food coloring if you use it.
- While the broth is still hot, if it is not, heat it again, and add the corn flour previously dissolved in a bit of water.
- Stir well for one or two minutes.
- Add the blended mixture to the broth and stir constantly with the help of a spoon for about ten minutes.
- After this time, stir and taste to determine whether it is cooked to perfection or if the necessary amount of salt needs to be added.
- You should serve it hot with the chicken pieces to each diner.
Where to try Inchicapi in Peru
Lima
Mar y Selva cocina: is located Avenida Tomás Marsano 1195 - Surquillo. Each dish in this restaurant is a tribute to Peruvian cuisine. From its famous dishes to the fresh fish and seafood, it offers an incomparable experience of tradition and creativity.
It stands out because its ingredients are fresh and from local producers. This delicate selection guarantees an authentic flavor that corresponds to the essence of the country's cuisine.
Cusco
Amazonia Restaurant: Located at Calle Ruinas 463 in front of the Hotel Ruinas, Cuzco, Peru. It offers a menu of varied Peruvian flavors from the jungle and mountains.
Whether you're looking for vegetables, fish, or different meats, Amazonia offers an extraordinary variety of Peruvian cuisine, all made with the best and freshest local ingredients.
Being in Peru is the experience of knowing the history, tradition, customs, and delicacies of one of the best cuisines in the world. So it is not just about walking but about appreciating, in all its breadth a country that has a lot to offer you.
