Aguadito de pollo is a traditional Peruvian chicken soup that is treasured for its comforting and nourishing properties. Translating to “little watered down” chicken, this soup gets its name from using a flavorful homemade chicken broth as the base. While recipes can vary, aguadito de pollo typically contains simple but delicious ingredients like chicken, cilantro, choclo corn, and red chili pepper. Understanding what goes into making authentic aguadito de pollo helps one appreciate the rich flavors and heritage of this iconic soup.
Main Ingredients
The primary components that make up aguadito de pollo are:
Chicken
Aguadito de pollo is named after its star ingredient – chicken! This soup is made using a whole cut up chicken or just chicken pieces like breast, thighs, and drumsticks. Chicken provides the rich flavor that permeates the entire broth. Using a whole chicken yields more gelatin and a heartier texture. The chicken meat also cooks until fall-off-the-bone tender and can be shredded back into the soup.
Chicken Broth
In place of water, aguadito de pollo is made with a homemade chicken broth. This is created by simmering raw chicken bones, meat, vegetables, and spices in a large pot of water for 1-2 hours. Once strained, the resulting chicken broth is light and concentrated in flavor. This provides the base of the soup.
Onion and Garlic
Aromatic onions and garlic form the flavor foundation of aguadito de pollo. They are cooked down at the start to release their savory sweetness into the broth. Red or yellow onions are commonly used.
Cilantro
Fresh cilantro adds herbal notes and signature Peruvian flair. It is typically added towards the end so the flavor stays vibrant. The verdant green color is also a visual marker of the soup.
Choclo
Choclo refers to large-kernel Peruvian corn. The starchy kernels and cobs are cooked in the broth and add sweet corn flavor. Canned or frozen kernels can substitute when fresh choclo is unavailable.
Red Chili Pepper
A defining ingredient is the Peruvian red ají chili pepper. It provides a mild to moderate spicy kick and red hue. Common types used include ají amarillo, ají limo, and ají panca. The seeds and ribs can be removed to control the heat level.
Classic Additions
In addition to the primary ingredients, these options are often added to round out aguadito de pollo:
- Rice – Cooked white rice is stirred in towards the end to make the broth heartier.
- Potatoes – Diced white or yellow potatoes provide starch and soak up broth flavors.
- Vegetables – Carrots, peas, green beans, chard add color and nutrients.
- Yuca – This starchy root veg is a common addition.
- Quinoa – Toasted quinoa sprinkled on top adds protein and texture.
- Cabbage slaw – Thinly sliced cabbage and onion in lime juice makes a zesty topping.
Seasonings
Beyond the main ingredients, aguadito de pollo is seasoned with:
- Salt – For overall seasoning.
- Pepper – Black pepper adds subtle heat.
- Cumin – Warm, earthy notes complement the chicken.
- Oregano – Dried oregano enhances the savory flavor.
- Bay leaf – Adds depth when simmered in the broth.
- Lime juice – Brightens up the flavors.
Steps to Make Aguadito de Pollo
While recipes can vary, aguadito de pollo is generally made following these steps:
- Simmer the broth: Simmer chicken bones, meat, onion, garlic, vegetables and spices in water for 1-2 hours to extract flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Once broth is strained, add chicken pieces back to the pot along with choclo corn, potatoes, etc. Cook until chicken is tender.
- Season: Add salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, lime juice and other seasonings to taste.
- Finish with cilantro: Turn off heat and stir in fresh chopped cilantro just before serving.
- Toppings: Ladle soup into bowls and top with items like cabbage slaw, quinoa, avocado, or chili sauce.
Nutrition
Aguadito de pollo is packed with nutrition from its vitamin-rich ingredients:
| Ingredient | Key Nutrients |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Protein, B vitamins |
| Onion | Fiber, vitamin C |
| Garlic | Antioxidants |
| Choclo Corn | Fiber, vitamin C |
| Potatoes | Potassium, vitamin C |
| Cilantro | Vitamin K, phytonutrients |
With chicken, vegetables, and legumes, this soup provides a balance of protein, carbs, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The chili pepper also increases metabolism. Overall, aguadito de pollo makes for a light yet truly satisfying and nutritious meal.
Variations
There are many ways cooks put their own spin on the traditional recipe:
- Seafood: Shrimp, mussels, or whitefish can be added along with the chicken or replace it entirely.
- Meat: Beef or lamb complements the rich broth as well.
- Grains: Beyond rice, try quinoa, barley, or pastas like orzo or angel hair.
- Beans: Beans like cannellini or butter beans add protein.
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan or feta on top lend saltiness.
- Eggs: Poached or hard-boiled eggs make the soup heartier.
The flexibility of the recipe allows for endless creativity based on preferences and what’s on hand!
Cultural Significance
Beyond just a comforting homemade soup, aguadito de pollo holds cultural meaning in Peru:
- It has ancient indigenous roots as the predecessor to modern Peruvian cuisine.
- The mix of native and Spanish influenced ingredients reflects Peru’s cultural history.
- It remains a staple family meal in households across Peru.
- Locals and tourists alike enjoy it as an authentic taste of Peru.
- It represents the rustic, hearty foods central to Peruvian gastronomic identity.
For Peruvians, aguadito de pollo evokes nostalgia of home, loved ones, and national pride. It connects people to the past while remaining a simple, everyday comfort.
Where to Enjoy
While best at home, you can also try authentic aguadito de pollo in Peru at:
- Local mom-and-pop restaurants known as “quinta” in Lima.
- Roadside stops called “picanterias” while traveling through Peru.
- Authentic Peruvian eateries in food hubs like Lima and Cusco.
- Upscale Peruvian restaurants as a starter or side.
Outside of Peru, search for it in restaurants offering authentic Peruvian cuisine. Many Peruvian chefs proudly feature their version of aguadito on menus internationally as a taste of home.
How to Make at Home
To make authentic aguadito de pollo at home:
- Use quality chicken and fresh vegetables.
- Simmer the broth long enough to extract rich flavor.
- Include key ingredients like choclo corn, chili pepper, and cilantro.
- Stir in starchy vegetables or rice to thicken.
- Adjust flavors like salt, lime juice, and cumin to taste.
- Garnish with classic toppings like cabbage slaw, quinoa, avocado.
Follow a tested recipe from a Peruvian chef or cookbook. Cooking the soup using the traditional technique and ingredients ensures homemade aguadito de pollo that captures the iconic flavors of Peru.
Conclusion
Aguadito de pollo has earned its place as a beloved staple of Peruvian cuisine. At its core, this soup contains chicken, homemade broth, aromatic vegetables, chili pepper, and cilantro. Hearty additions like rice, potatoes, or beans make it a complete meal. The flexibility of the recipe allows for personalization based on preferences. Beyond just nourishment, aguadito de pollo represents Peru’s rich cultural heritage. Recreating this iconic dish at home provides comfort and a taste of Peru no matter where you are.