Embark on a taste adventure with Guam Kadon Pika, a traditional dish that encapsulates the rich culinary heritage of Guam. "Kadon Pika" translates to "spicy stew" in Chamorro, the indigenous language of the island. This dish, a fusion of local ingredients and culinary influences from Spanish, Filipino, and other Pacific Island cultures, delivers a bold and vibrant flavor experience.
Prepared with succulent pieces of chicken or beef, marinated in a blend of local peppers, onions, garlic, and spices, Kadon Pika is a dish that celebrates the essence of Guam's gastronomic tradition. The heat of the peppers, balanced with the earthiness of root vegetables like potatoes and carrots, creates a harmony of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.
Served hot over steamed rice, Kadon Pika is a staple at family gatherings, fiestas, and celebrations across the island. Whether enjoyed at a local eatery or prepared at home with a personal touch, this dish symbolizes the warmth of Guamanian hospitality and the fusion of cultures that define the island's culinary identity. Experience the fiery essence of Guam with every savory bite of Kadon Pika.
Here's a recipe for Guam Kadon Pika:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken, beef, or seafood (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups water or chicken/beef broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2-3 hot peppers (like scotch bonnet or habanero), minced (adjust according to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1- Heat the cooking oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2- Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
3- Add the diced tomatoes and bell pepper to the pot and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.
4- Now, add the chicken, beef, or seafood to the pot, and cook until it's browned on all sides (if using seafood, cook until it's opaque).
5- Once the meat is browned, pour in the coconut milk and water (or broth) into the pot. Stir well to combine.
6- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and hot peppers to the pot. Stir in the soy sauce and vinegar.
7- Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
8- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
9- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can let the stew simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
10- Once everything is cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the Kadon Pika hot over steamed rice.
11- Optionally, garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
Enjoy your spicy Chamorro stew, packed with the flavors of Guam!
Nutritional Values:
Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the main ingredients in Guam Kadon Pika:
Chicken (2 lbs, boneless, skinless):
- Calories: 1000
- Protein: 184g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
benefits:
- Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium, which support overall health.
Beef (2 lbs, lean cuts like sirloin or round):
- Calories: 2200
- Protein: 300g
- Fat: 100g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
benefits:
- High in protein, aiding in muscle growth and repair.
- Good source of iron, which is important for healthy blood circulation and preventing anemia.
- Contains zinc, which supports immune function and wound healing.
Seafood (2 lbs, mixed seafood like shrimp, fish, and squid):
- Calories: 600
- Protein: 120g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
benefits:
- Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health and brain function.
- Excellent source of lean protein.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, iodine, and selenium.
Coconut Milk (1 can, 13.5 oz):
- Calories: 720
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 78g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
benefits:
- Provides healthy fats, including medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can support weight management and provide energy.
- Contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties and may support immune health.
- Rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, magnesium, and potassium.
Vegetables (onion, garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, bell pepper):
- Calories: Approx. 500
- Protein: Approx. 10g
- Fat: Approx. 2g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 100g
benefits:
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific cuts of meat, cooking methods, and ingredient brands. Additionally, the values provided are for the entire recipe, so you would need to divide them accordingly based on your serving size.
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