Spicy Bolivian Quinoa Chicharrón with Aji Sauce

Name: Spicy Bolivian Quinoa Chicharrón with Aji Sauce
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: Quinoa; Water; Salt; Smoked paprika; Ground cumin; Cayenne pepper; Oil for frying; Aji amarillo peppers; Cilantro leaves; Garlic; Greek yogurt; Lime juice; Salt; Red onion; Fresh cilantro leaves

A Crispy Delight with a Tangy Twist

Discover the unique fusion of crispy quinoa and zesty aji sauce, embodying the vibrant flavors of Bolivia.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Quinoa Chicharrón

Quinoa

1 cup, rinsed well

Water

2 cups

Salt

½ teaspoon

Smoked paprika

1 teaspoon

Ground cumin

1 teaspoon

Cayenne pepper

½ teaspoon

Oil for frying

as needed

For the Aji Sauce

Aji amarillo peppers

2, seeded and chopped

Cilantro leaves

¼ cup, chopped

Garlic

1 clove, minced

Greek yogurt

¼ cup

Lime juice

1 tablespoon

Salt

to taste

For the Garnish

Red onion

¼ cup, thinly sliced

Fresh cilantro leaves

1 tablespoon

Preparation

Preparing the Quinoa

Rinse quinoa

Rinse quinoa under cold water.

Cook quinoa

In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat.

Preparing the Aji Sauce

Blend peppers, cilantro, and garlic

Blend aji peppers, cilantro, and garlic in a food processor until smooth.

Season sauce

Add Greek yogurt, lime juice, and season with salt. Blend until well combined.

Chill the sauce

Chill the sauce until ready to serve.

Cooking Process

Dry the quinoa

Spread cooked quinoa on a baking sheet to cool and dry for at least 30 minutes.

Ensure quinoa is thoroughly dried before frying to prevent oil splatter.

Fry the quinoa

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and fry quinoa in batches until golden and crispy.

Use a slotted spoon to remove fried quinoa to ensure excess oil drains.

Blend the sauce

Ensure the sauce is smooth before serving for the best texture.

Plating & Serving