Ajiaco de Pollo y Yuca
A hearty and comforting chicken and root vegetable stew, featuring tender chicken, starchy yuca, corn, and a rich broth seasoned with Cuban spices.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 lbs Chicken pieces (bone-in, like thighs and drumsticks)
- 1.5 lbs Yuca (cassava)(peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 3 ears Corn on the cob(cut into 2-inch pieces)
- 2 green Plantains(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 lb Malanga (or taro root)(peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks)
- 1 large Yellow onion(chopped)
- 1 large Green bell pepper(chopped)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 8 cups Chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1.5 tsp Cumin
- 1 tsp Oregano
- 1 leaf Bay leaf
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Fresh cilantro or parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil (optional, if chicken is fatty) over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken pieces on all sides. Remove chicken and set aside.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 2
Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes - 3
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Return the chicken to the pot. Add the chicken broth, yuca, corn, plantains, malanga, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
💡 Tip: Ensure all ingredients are submerged in the broth. - 6
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the root vegetables are cooked through and soft. Stir occasionally.
⏱️ 1 hour 15 minutes💡 Tip: The broth will thicken as the starches from the vegetables release. - 7
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
💡 Tip: The stew should be thick and hearty. - 8
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
💡 Tip: Traditionally served with a side of white rice.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Yuca can be found fresh or frozen in Latin American markets. If using frozen, thaw it first.
- ✓Malanga can be substituted with more yuca or potatoes if unavailable.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use a mix of chicken and vegetable broth.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add chunks of beef or pork along with the chicken.
- Include other root vegetables like sweet potatoes or ñame.