RecipesEcuadorCaldo de Gallina Criolla

Caldo de Gallina Criolla

A hearty and flavorful soup made with free-range chicken (gallina criolla), vegetables, and herbs, often considered a restorative dish.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time1 hour 50 minutes
Servings6
DifficultyMedium
Caldo de Gallina Criolla - Ecuador traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 1 whole Gallina Criolla (free-range chicken)(cut into serving pieces)
  • 3 liters Water
  • 1 large Onion(chopped)
  • 4 cloves Garlic(minced)
  • 1 bunch Cilantro(chopped)
  • 1/2 bunch Parsley(chopped)
  • 1 tbsp Achiote (annatto) paste or oil
  • 4 medium Potatoes(peeled and quartered)
  • 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
  • 1/2 cup Peas
  • 2 ears Corn on the cob(cut into sections)
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 1 tsp Cumin

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  2. 2

    Add the chicken pieces and achiote paste/oil. Brown the chicken on all sides.

  3. 3

    Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.

  4. 4

    Add salt, pepper, and cumin. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is tender.

  5. 5

    Add the potatoes, carrots, and corn. Cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

  6. 6

    Stir in the peas and cook for 5 more minutes.

  7. 7

    Just before serving, stir in most of the chopped cilantro and parsley. Reserve some for garnish.

  8. 8

    Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Using a free-range chicken (gallina criolla) adds a richer flavor to the broth.
  • Adjust the amount of achiote for desired color.
  • For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes against the side of the pot.

🔄 Variations

  • Add other root vegetables like yuca or sweet potato.
  • Include a bay leaf during simmering for added aroma.

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