Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. of smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 plantains, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 cup of water
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp. of cumin
- 1 tsp. of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp. of vegetable oil
- 1 tbsp. of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the sliced plantains, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, cumin, and dried oregano. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the plantains are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat for browning the sausage
- Low heat for simmering the ajiaco
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 370
- Fat per serving: 22g
- Carbohydrates per serving: 30g
- Protein per serving: 14g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of smoked sausage, you can use chorizo or any other type of sausage.
- If you don't have plantains, you can use sweet potatoes or yams instead.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes or carrots for extra vegetables.
- Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a heartier flavor.
- Add a can of black beans for extra protein.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to slice the plantains thinly so they cook evenly.
- If the ajiaco is too thick, add more water or chicken broth to thin it out.
- Serve with rice or crusty bread to soak up the broth.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover ajiaco in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the ajiaco in a pot over low heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the ajiaco in individual bowls, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Pairings:
- Serve with rice or crusty bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Green salad
- Grilled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the ajiaco is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.
- If the plantains are not tender, let them simmer for a few more minutes until they are soft.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the sausage to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
Food history:
- Ajiaco is a traditional soup from Colombia, but this version with plantains and sausage is a popular variation in Costa Rica.
Flavor profiles:
- Smoky, savory, and slightly sweet from the plantains.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve hot as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
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Region: Costa Rican