Lomo saltado is a popular Peruvian dish known for its bold flavors and vibrant colors. Traditionally made with beef, this recipe puts a delicious twist on the classic by using succulent chicken instead.
The combination of tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and fragrant spices creates a mouthwatering dish that will delight your taste buds. The following, we will guide you through the preparation of this delectable chicken lomo saltado recipe.
Ingredients
For the chicken marinade, you will need:
1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the lomo saltado, gather the following ingredients:
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions
Step 1
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Step 2
Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 3
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
Step 4
Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 5
In the same skillet, add the sliced red onion and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 6
Add the tomato wedges to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 7
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Drizzle soy sauce and red wine vinegar over the mixture. Stir everything together and cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 8
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the lomo saltado with fresh cilantro leaves.
Secret Tips for Juicy Chicken
- For an extra touch of juiciness, try marinating the chicken overnight. This will result in even more flavorful and tender meat.
- When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the pan. Sauté it in batches to ensure each piece gets enough heat and browns evenly.
- Don’t overcook the chicken. Remember, it will continue cooking slightly after you remove it from the heat. Cook until it is no longer pink in the center, but still tender and juicy.
Origin of Lomo Saltado
Lomo saltado originated in Peru and is a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisines. It combines Chinese stir-fry techniques with traditional Peruvian ingredients, resulting in a unique and flavorful dish.
The name “lomo saltado” translates to “jumped loin,” referring to the quick cooking process that keeps the meat tender and juicy.
Nutritional Benefits of this Recipe
The chicken lomo saltado recipe not only offers a burst of flavors but also provides several nutritional benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients and their nutritional value:
Chicken
Lean chicken breasts are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which plays a crucial role in muscle repair and growth. It also provides essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, chicken is lower in fat compared to other meats, making it a healthier protein choice.
Vegetables
The lomo saltado recipe incorporates an array of vegetables, including onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. These vegetables are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Bell peppers, for example, are loaded with vitamin C, which supports immune function and acts as an antioxidant.
Soy Sauce and Red Wine Vinegar
The marinade for the chicken contains soy sauce and red wine vinegar, which not only enhance the flavor but also offer some health benefits. Soy sauce provides a modest amount of protein and iron, while red wine vinegar contains acetic acid, which has been associated with potential health advantages like improved digestion and blood sugar control.
Serving Suggestions
Lomo saltado is traditionally served with white rice or French fries. The combination of the juicy chicken and sautéed vegetables pairs perfectly with the starchiness of rice or the crispiness of fries. You can also serve it with a side of salsa criolla, a refreshing Peruvian onion and tomato relish, for an added burst of flavor.
Variations of this Recipe
Seafood Lomo Saltado
Replace the chicken with shrimp, scallops, or a combination of seafood for a delightful seafood twist. Sauté the seafood quickly to retain its tenderness and combine it with the sautéed vegetables and flavorful marinade.
Vegetarian Lomo Saltado
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or seitan. Marinate the tofu or seitan in the same flavorful marinade as the chicken to infuse it with delicious flavors. Sauté the marinated tofu or seitan along with the vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian lomo saltado.
Spicy Lomo Saltado
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some spice to your lomo saltado. Include sliced chili peppers, such as jalapeños or red chilies, during the sautéing process. Adjust the amount of chili peppers according to your preferred level of spiciness.
Proper Storage
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Lomo saltado will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet or microwave to warm it gently, ensuring the chicken remains moist and tender.
Additional Rice-Stuffed Eggplant Parmesan Recipe
Looking to try another delicious recipe? Consider making rice-stuffed eggplant parmesan. This hearty dish combines the goodness of eggplants, Minute Rice, and Parmesan cheese, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful vegetarian meal. https://minuterice.com/recipes/rice-stuffed-eggplant-parmesan/
The chicken lomo saltado recipe provides a delightful twist on the traditional Peruvian dish. With its juicy chicken, sautéed vegetables, and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to try the rice-stuffed eggplant parmesan recipe as well for a delightful vegetarian option.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal, the chicken lomo saltado recipe will never disappoint. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and culinary fusion of this delectable dish!
Also read: Two Easy Recipes That You Can Make with Tupelo Honey
