Ajiaco – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Colombia Servings: Serves 6
Colombia Servings: Serves 6Ajiaco is a heartwarming and traditional Colombian soup known for its rich melding of flavors. Originating from the Andean region, particularly Bogotá, this dish is rooted in a cultural fusion blending indigenous Colombian ingredients with Spanish influences. It is celebrated for its complexity, combining different varieties of potatoes, tender chicken, and herbs, making it a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients
- chicken breasts – 2 lbs / 900 g
- yellow potatoes – 1 lb / 450 g, peeled and sliced
- white potatoes – 1 lb / 450 g, peeled and sliced
- creole potatoes – 1 lb / 450 g, peeled and sliced
- onion – 1 large, chopped
- corn on the cob – 2 ears, cut into pieces
- chicken stock – 8 cups / 1.9 liters
- guascas – 1 tbsp dried
- capers – 1/4 cup / 40 g
- cream – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- avocado – 2 ripe, sliced
- salt – to taste
- pepper – to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine chicken breasts, chopped onion, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat and simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 25 minutes. Remove the chicken, shred it, and set aside.
- Add yellow, white, and creole potatoes to the pot. Cook until they start to disintegrate, about 30 minutes.
- Return shredded chicken to the pot. Add corn on the cob pieces and guascas. Simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with capers, a dollop of cream, and slices of avocado.
Substitutions
- creole potatoes -> red potatoes
- guascas -> oregano
- cream -> sour cream
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a few cloves of garlic for enhanced flavor.
- Include a bay leaf during cooking for subtle depth.
- Use homemade chicken stock for a richer taste.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
