Aguadito

Name: Aguadito
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 1 L cilantro broth; 300 g chicken; 200 g rice; 1 handful cilantro; 1 aji; to taste fine sea salt

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 chicken

Aguadito emerges from the quiet haze of a Peruvian morning, a restorative salve for those who seek comfort after a night of joyous overindulgence. Each household has its own version, unwritten rules passed down through years of practice, where salt is pinched with instinct and fat is a friend, not a foe. This is the bowl that appears at the family table, a ritual of recovery and warmth.

As you spoon into Aguadito, expect a vibrant green broth, its color and aroma a gift from the cilantro. Tender chicken and soft rice create a satisfying texture, while aji peppers offer a gentle heat that whispers rather than shouts. It's a dish meant to be shared, but it also knows how to stand alone, offering solace in its depth and simplicity.

Ingredients

1 Lcilantro broth
300 gchicken
200 grice
1 handfulcilantro
1aji
to tastefine sea salt

Method

Begin by placing a large pot over medium heat. Add a generous amount of oil to coat the bottom of the pot. Once the oil is shimmering, add finely chopped onions, garlic, and aji. Stir frequently, allowing the aromatics to soften and release their fragrance, ensuring they do not brown or burn.
Introduce the chicken pieces (300 g) to the pot, stirring to coat them in the aromatic base. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides, which will help lock in flavor and add depth to the broth.
Pour in the cilantro broth (1 L) and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will infuse the chicken with the herbal notes of the cilantro. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged in the broth for even cooking.
Add the rice (200 g) to the pot, stirring to distribute it evenly. Continue simmering, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the flavors of the broth. The rice should be soft but not mushy, maintaining a slight bite.
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with fine sea salt to your preference. The broth should be well-seasoned, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken and cilantro.
Finish the dish by stirring in a handful of freshly chopped cilantro. This will add a burst of fresh, herbal aroma and a vibrant green color to the Aguadito. Serve immediately, ensuring each bowl has a generous portion of both chicken and rice.