Pique de Cebra
A unique and visually striking dish from Bolivia, 'Pique de Cebra' translates to 'Zebra Stripes' and refers to the alternating layers of white rice and a dark, flavorful meat sauce, often made with beef or pork, creating a striped effect when served. It's a comforting and savory meal.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef or pork(cut into small cubes)
- 3 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 2 medium Yellow onions(finely chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 medium Tomatoes(peeled and diced)
- 2 tbsp Aji panca paste
- 1 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Oregano
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1.5 cups Beef broth or water
- 4 cups Cooked white rice(prepared separately)
- 0.5 cup Green peas(optional, for color)
- 2 large Hard-boiled eggs(sliced, for garnish)
- 0.25 cup Black olives(for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Brown the cubed meat on all sides. Remove meat and set aside.
- 2
Add chopped onions to the same skillet and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- 3
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the diced tomatoes, aji panca paste, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- 5
Return the browned meat to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in the beef broth or water.
💡 Tip: Ensure the liquid partially covers the meat. - 6
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has reduced to a rich consistency.
💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 7
If using, stir in the green peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- 8
Prepare the white rice according to your preferred method. Ensure it is fluffy and ready to be layered.
💡 Tip: Use good quality long-grain rice for best results. - 9
To serve, spoon a layer of white rice into a serving dish. Top with a layer of the meat sauce. Continue alternating layers of rice and meat sauce, creating a striped effect. Garnish with sliced hard-boiled eggs and black olives.
💡 Tip: The key is to create distinct layers for the 'zebra stripe' appearance.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Aji panca paste provides a mild heat and a deep, smoky flavor. If unavailable, substitute with a mix of paprika and a touch of chipotle.
- ✓Ensure the meat sauce is thick enough to hold its shape between the rice layers.
- ✓For a vegetarian version, use firm tofu or mushrooms instead of meat.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a splash of red wine to the meat sauce for added depth of flavor.
- Serve with a side of pickled onions or a simple salad.