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DINNER

Bolivian Fricasé de Cerdo with Chuño and Potatoes

This hearty Bolivian Fricasé de Cerdo is a rich pork stew featuring tender pork, a spicy yellow aji pepper broth, and the unique texture of chuño (freeze-dried potatoes) alongside fresh potatoes. It's a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying dinner.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Season the pork cubes generously with 1 tablespoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.

02

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork in batches until golden on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the pork and set aside.

03

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, ají amarillo paste, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

04

Return the browned pork to the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 60 minutes, or until the pork is tender.

05

Add the rehydrated chuño and quartered fresh potatoes to the stew. Increase heat to medium-low, cover, and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

06

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

About This Recipe

This hearty Bolivian Fricasé de Cerdo is a rich pork stew featuring tender pork, a spicy yellow aji pepper broth, and the unique texture of chuño (freeze-dried potatoes) alongside fresh potatoes. It's a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Bolivian Fricasé de Cerdo with Chuño and Potatoes
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For best flavor, brown the pork well to develop a rich crust. Rehydrating chuño takes time; plan to soak it overnight or for several hours before cooking. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few pieces of potato or chuño against the side of the pot before serving.
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Easy Substitutions

If chuño is unavailable, you can use an additional 1 1/2 cups of regular potatoes, cut into smaller pieces. For a milder stew, reduce the amount of ají amarillo paste. Chicken or beef can be used instead of pork, adjusting cooking time as needed.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover fricasé in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to maintain consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Bolivian Fricasé de Cerdo with a side of fluffy white rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the stew. For an authentic touch, offer a small bowl of llajwa (Bolivian spicy salsa) on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.

Common Mistakes

Not browning the pork sufficiently: This step is crucial for developing deep flavor. Ensure the pot is hot and don't overcrowd the pan. Not rehydrating chuño properly: If chuño is not fully rehydrated, it will remain hard and unpalatable. Plan ahead for the soaking time. Overcooking the potatoes: Add the fresh potatoes and chuño only after the pork has had a good head start, to prevent them from turning mushy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this fricasé in a slow cooker?

Yes, after browning the pork and sautéing the aromatics, combine all ingredients (except fresh potatoes and chuño) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the chuño and fresh potatoes during the last 1.5-2 hours of cooking.

Where can I find ají amarillo paste?

Ají amarillo paste can typically be found in Latin American grocery stores or in the international aisle of larger supermarkets.

Is chuño necessary for this recipe?

While chuño adds an authentic texture and flavor, the recipe can still be made without it by simply increasing the amount of regular potatoes.
MORE TO KNOW
Chuño is a unique ingredient in Bolivian cuisine, made from freeze-dried potatoes. The process of making chuño involves exposing potatoes to freezing night temperatures and warm daytime sun, then trampling them to remove water. This results in a light, porous texture that rehydrates to a slightly chewy consistency, adding a distinctive element to stews like Fricasé de Cerdo. When rehydrating chuño, ensure it's fully submerged in water for at least 8-12 hours, changing the water once or twice, then peeled before use.
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