Experience the authentic taste of Pachamanca OR Peruvian Party Food , a cherished Andean dish blending meats and vegetable , slow-cooked in an earthen oven .

Uncover the ancient techniques and savor tender meats, robust potatoes, and colorful vegetables seasoned with fragrant herbs and spices. Immerse yourself in Andean culture with this detailed Pachamanca recipe, ideal for festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:

 - 1/4 cup of aji amarillo paste (Peruvian yellow chili paste) or substitute with a mix of yellow chili powder and paprika

 - 1/4 cup of vegetable oil

 - 4 cloves of garlic, minced

 - 1 tablespoon of ground cumin

 - 1 tablespoon of dried oregano

 - Salt and pepper to taste

For the Meats and Vegetables:

 - 1 lb (450g) of beef, cut into chunks

 - 1 lb (450g) of pork, cut into chunks

 - 1 lb (450g) of chicken, cut into pieces

 - 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into quarters

 - 4 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

 - 4 ears of corn, husked and halved

 - 1 lb (450g) of fresh fava beans or lima beans, shelled

 - Banana leaves or aluminum foil for wrapping

Instructions:

1-Prepare the marinade by combining the aji amarillo paste (or substitute), vegetable oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well.

2-Place the beef, pork, and chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the meats, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

3-Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using an earthen oven, prepare it according to its instructions.

4-Take a large, deep baking dish or a clean spot in your earthen oven. Line the bottom with banana leaves or aluminum foil.

5-Arrange the marinated meats, potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn, and fava beans (or lima beans) on the banana leaves or foil. Try to layer them evenly.

6-Once everything is arranged, cover the meats and vegetables with more banana leaves or foil, creating a packet or wrapping them securely.

7-Place the baking dish or wrapped packet in the preheated oven or earthen oven. Bake for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meats are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

8-Carefully unwrap the packet and serve the Pachamanca hot, allowing everyone to dig in and enjoy the delicious flavors of this traditional Andean dish.

9-Optionally, serve with a side of aji sauce or salsa criolla for an extra burst of flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Pachamanca, a delightful taste of Andean cuisine!

Nutritional Values :

For the Marinade:

1. Aji Amarillo Paste (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: 60

  - Fat: 2g

  - Carbohydrates: 12g

  - Protein: 1g

benefits: Contains capsaicin, which may help reduce inflammation and improve metabolism. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, boosting immune function and protecting against oxidative stress.

2. Vegetable Oil (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: 488

  - Fat: 54g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits: Provides essential fatty acids that support heart health and brain function. Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that promotes healthy skin and immune function.

3. Garlic (4 cloves)

  - Calories: 18

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

  - Protein: 1g

benefits: Has antimicrobial properties that may help fight infections and support immune health. Contains compounds like allicin, which may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

4. Ground Cumin (1 tbsp)

  - Calories: 22

  - Fat: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 4g

  - Protein: 1g

benefits: Contains antioxidants that help fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. May aid digestion and improve nutrient absorption due to its carminative properties.

5. Dried Oregano (1 tbsp)

  - Calories: 5

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants, including rosmarinic acid and thymol, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Contains compounds that may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.

For the Meats and Vegetables:

1. Beef (1 lb)

  - Calories: 840

  - Fat: 48g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 92g

benefits: Excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Provides important nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are vital for energy production and overall health.

2. Pork (1 lb)

  - Calories: 1040

  - Fat: 88g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 72g

benefits:Excellent source of high-quality protein and provides important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins for energy production and overall health.

3. Chicken (1 lb)

  - Calories: 960

  - Fat: 48g

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 128g

benefits: High-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair and growth. Provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins that support overall health.

Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes:

1. Potatoes (4 large)

  - Calories: 672

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 156g

  - Protein: 16g

benefits: Rich in carbohydrates, providing energy for physical activity and brain function. Good source of fiber, supporting digestive health and maintaining a feeling of fullness.

2. Sweet Potatoes (4)

  - Calories: 400

  - Fat: 0g

  - Carbohydrates: 96g

  - Protein: 8g

benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin and vision. High in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.

3. Corn (4 ears)

  - Calories: 352

  - Fat: 6g

  - Carbohydrates: 72g

  - Protein: 12g

benefits:High in fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestive health and protecting against chronic diseases. Contains carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health.

4. Fava Beans (1 lb)

  - Calories: 352

  - Fat: 1g

  - Carbohydrates: 63g

  - Protein: 26g

benefits: Excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, helping regulate blood sugar levels and promote satiety. Rich in folate, manganese, and magnesium, important for heart health and energy metabolism.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands, cuts of meat, and cooking methods.