Pique a la Llajua
A hearty and flavorful dish from Cochabamba, Bolivia, featuring a generous portion of thinly sliced beef, chorizo, fried potatoes, and a spicy llajua (salsa). It's a popular and satisfying meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef steak(thinly sliced)
- 200 g Chorizo(sliced)
- 500 g Potatoes(cut into thick fries)
- 1 medium Onion(chopped)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(chopped)
- 2 small Locoto peppers(finely chopped (adjust to spice preference))
- 1/4 cup Cilantro(chopped)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the llajua: In a bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, locoto peppers, cilantro, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
- 2
Fry the potatoes: Heat 2 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the potato fries until golden brown and crispy. Remove from skillet and drain on paper towels. Season with salt.
- 3
Cook the beef: In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp of oil if needed. Add the thinly sliced beef and cook until browned and tender. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- 4
Cook the chorizo: Add the sliced chorizo to the skillet and cook until browned and slightly crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- 5
Sauté the onions: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 6
Assemble the dish: On a large platter, arrange the fried potatoes. Top with the cooked beef and chorizo. Spoon the prepared llajua generously over the top. Serve immediately.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The key to a good llajua is fresh ingredients, especially the locoto peppers for heat.
- ✓Slice the beef very thinly to ensure quick cooking and tenderness.
- ✓Adjust the amount of locoto peppers to your personal spice preference.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add some fried eggs on top for an even heartier meal.
- Some variations include adding sliced hard-boiled eggs.