Ajiaco
The term ajiaco means different things in different parts of Latin America, but in Colombia the name refers to a chunky chicken soup thickened with papas criollas, a native potato. The tiny yellow tubers break down completely, giving the broth a rich, silky mouthfeel. If you can't find papas criollas in your supermarket's freezer section, grated russets achieve pretty much the same effect. Yukon Gold and red boiling potatoes contribute contrasting texture, and a handful of briny capers punches up the flavor.
Chicken can be cooked 1 day ahead and chilled in broth, uncovered, until cool, then covered. Skim off fat if desired before reheating.
Recipe information
Total Time
2 hr
Yield
Makes 8 servings
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Put chicken in a 6- to 8-quart pot and add water, broth, onion, guascas, and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt. Bring to a boil, skimming foam, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, until chicken is cooked through, 30 to 40 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly (reserve broth).
Step 2
Add papas criollas to reserved broth (if using russet potatoes, peel and coarsely grate first) and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are falling apart and beginning to thicken broth (mash if necessary), 20 to 30 minutes.
Step 3
Meanwhile, peel Yukon Golds and boiling potatoes and cut into 1-inch pieces, then add to pot and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until almost tender, 10 to 15 minutes.
Step 4
Add corn, 1/4 cup cilantro, and 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper and simmer, covered, until corn is tender, 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 5
While corn cooks, coarsely shred chicken, discarding skin and bones.
Step 6
Add chicken to stew and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Season with salt.
Step 7
Serve stew with crema, capers, avocados, and remaining 1/2 cup cilantro, each in separate bowls (or add them to stew in pot just before serving).
