How to Prepare a Traditional Indian Dish- The Art of Cooking Old Indian Curry

Cómo preparar un indio viejo, a traditional dish from the Andean region, is a culinary adventure that combines rich flavors and cultural heritage. This dish, also known as “ancient Indian,” is a staple in many Peruvian households and is celebrated for its unique taste and historical significance. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing this delicious meal, ensuring that you can enjoy the authentic flavors of this Andean delight.

The preparation of an indio viejo begins with selecting the right ingredients. The dish is traditionally made with chicken, potatoes, and corn, all of which are native to the Andes. The chicken is slow-cooked with a blend of spices, herbs, and vegetables, creating a tender and flavorful meat. The potatoes and corn are also cooked until they are soft and can be easily mashed or pureed.

To start, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
– 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
– 1 cup of corn kernels
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– 1 teaspoon of oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 4 cups of chicken broth or water

Once you have all the ingredients ready, follow these steps to prepare an indio viejo:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the whole chicken to the pot, along with the cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is well-coated in the spices.
3. Pour in the chicken broth or water, ensuring that the chicken is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Let the chicken cook for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until it is tender and falls off the bone. Skim any foam or impurities from the surface of the broth during this time.
5. While the chicken is cooking, prepare the potatoes and corn. Place the potatoes in a separate pot and cook until they are tender. Drain and set aside.
6. In the same pot, cook the corn kernels until they are soft. Drain and set aside with the potatoes.
7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred the chicken meat into bite-sized pieces.
8. In a separate bowl, mash the potatoes and corn until they are smooth. You can use a potato masher or a food processor for this step.
9. Add the shredded chicken to the mashed potatoes and corn, and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
10. Serve the indio viejo hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime juice. This dish is traditionally served with rice or bread, and it pairs beautifully with a cold beer or a glass of pisco.

By following these steps, you can prepare an indio viejo that captures the essence of Andean cuisine. Enjoy the rich flavors and the cultural experience that this traditional dish brings to your table.