Introduction
Peruvian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of cultural influences, blending indigenous traditions with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese flavors. Among its many culinary treasures, one dish stands out for its bold, smoky, and irresistible taste—Pollo a la Brasa, or Peruvian rotisserie chicken. This dish, known for its crispy, spice-rubbed skin and juicy, tender meat, has transcended borders, becoming a beloved staple in many parts of the world.
With its signature blend of spices and slow-roasted perfection, making authentic Peruvian Chicken at home is easier than ever with Asabasa Spice Co.’s Peruvian Chicken Rub—a bold, handcrafted seasoning designed to bring the rich flavors of Peru straight to your grill or oven.
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The Origins of Peruvian Chicken
Pollo a la Brasa was born in the 1950s in Lima, Peru, thanks to a Swiss immigrant named Roger Schuler. Schuler, who owned a farm in the town of Santa Clara, initially raised chickens for commercial sale. However, he discovered that cooking whole chickens on a rotating spit over an open fire produced incredibly flavorful and succulent results.
To perfect this cooking method, Schuler and his business partner, Franz Ulrich, developed a custom-made rotisserie system, allowing the chickens to cook evenly while being continuously basted in their own juices. In 1950, they opened La Granja Azul, the first restaurant to specialize in Pollo a la Brasa. Initially, it was considered a high-end delicacy, reserved for the wealthy. However, as the popularity of the dish grew, it became more widely available, eventually turning into a national obsession.
The Signature Flavor Profile
What makes Peruvian chicken so irresistible is its complex marinade. Traditionally, the marinade consists of:
- Aji Panca: A mild, smoky Peruvian chili that adds depth without overwhelming heat.
- Garlic: A must-have for bold flavor.
- Soy Sauce: A nod to the influence of Japanese and Chinese immigrants, this ingredient enhances umami.
- Cumin & Oregano: These earthy spices provide warmth and richness.
- Vinegar or Citrus (Lime/Lemon): Adds acidity to balance the flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Beer or Chicha de Jora: Some variations include these fermented drinks to deepen the marinade’s complexity.
However, if you want all these authentic flavors in one easy-to-use blend, our Peruvian Chicken Rub is the ultimate shortcut. With its expertly crafted mix of aji panca, garlic, cumin, oregano, and a balance of umami and smoky spices, this seasoning makes achieving the perfect Pollo a la Brasa effortless.
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How to Use Asabasa Spice Co.'s Peruvian Chicken Rub
To make an authentic Peruvian-style chicken at home:
- Season the Chicken: Generously coat a whole chicken (or pieces) with Asabasa Spice Co.'s Peruvian Chicken Rub and let it marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better).
- Cook on a Grill or Oven: Roast over charcoal for that authentic smoky flavor or bake at 375°F (190°C) until crispy and juicy.
- Serve with Classic Sides: Enjoy with French fries, aji verde sauce, and a simple salad for the full Peruvian experience!
The Essential Sides
A plate of Peruvian chicken wouldn’t be complete without its iconic side dishes:
- Aji Verde: A creamy, spicy green sauce made with aji amarillo peppers, cilantro, garlic, and mayonnaise or cheese.
- French Fries: A reflection of Peru’s love for potatoes, which originated in the Andes.
- Salad: A simple mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, often with a light vinaigrette to refresh the palate.
- Arroz Chaufa: Some restaurants serve this Peruvian-style fried rice as an additional side, showcasing the country’s Chinese influence.
Peruvian Chicken Goes Global
As Peruvians emigrated worldwide, they brought their cuisine with them, leading to the rise of Peruvian chicken restaurants in the United States, Europe, and beyond. In places like Washington D.C., New York, and Miami, Pollo a la Brasa has gained a loyal following, often served in casual eateries known as pollerías. The dish’s international appeal lies in its perfect combination of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors, making it a favorite among food lovers of all backgrounds.
Conclusion
Peruvian chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of Peru’s rich culinary heritage and cultural fusion. Whether you’re enjoying it in a traditional Peruvian pollería or making it at home, our Peruvian Chicken Rub ensures you get that authentic, smoky, and spice-packed flavor without the hassle.
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