Aji de Gallina (Creamy Chicken)

Every country has their own favorite comfort meal. That comes in the shape of the tasty Aji de gallina for Peruvians. Aji de gallina is essentially a chicken stew. However, the synthesis of multiple elements creates a remarkable meal with a variety of textures and flavors.

The dish is thought to have been introduced to Peru by Africans imported by the Spanish in the 16th century. It was a dish made from chicken scraps and potatoes that was eaten by the poorest people in the country. The formula has developed over the years. Peruvians nowadays cook tender chicken with chili, walnuts, and spices. The meal gets its name from the use of aji amarillo peppers, which are known for their yellow hue and spicy flavor.

If that isn't enough to whet your appetite, Peruvians dish the delectable stew with rice or potatoes. As a finishing touch, olives and boiled eggs are added towards the end. Aji de gallina is unlike any other stew. It's a Peruvian cuisine that soothes both the stomach and the soul, and it's loved by millions across the country.