Authentic Pollo a la brasa Recipe Lima, Peru

Pollo a la brasa is a beloved dish in Peru, considered the classic Peruvian dish, surpassing dishes like ceviche. It is considered the national heritage of Peru and is celebrated annually on the third Sunday of July. The preparation begins with creating the marinade—a vital component that infuses the chicken with its characteristic flavors. The marinade typically consists of garlic, cumin, oregano, rosemary, Peruvian aji panca (a type of chili pepper), salt, pepper, soy sauce, vinegar, and beer. Still, it can also include chicha, huacatay, and even pisco. These ingredients are blended together and used to marinate the chicken, which is thoroughly cleaned beforehand. For the best results, the chicken should marinate for several hours, ideally overnight, allowing the spices to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat. Traditionally, pollo a la brasa is cooked in a rotisserie known as rotombo by roasting over embers. The slow rotation ensures even cooking and helps keep the ... Read more