Introduction
Pollo con crema is a popular dish in Guatemala that is loved by locals and tourists alike. The dish is made with chicken cooked in a creamy sauce made with sour cream, onions, garlic, and other seasonings. It is usually served with rice and beans, and sometimes tortillas. Pollo con crema is a perfect example of how Guatemalan cuisine combines different flavors and textures to create a unique and delicious dish.
History of Pollo con Crema Guatemalteco
The origins of pollo con crema are not clear, but it is believed to have originated in the highlands of Guatemala, where dairy products are widely used in cooking. The dish is a variation of a traditional Guatemalan chicken stew that usually includes vegetables like carrots and potatoes. The addition of sour cream to the recipe gives the dish a creamy and tangy flavor that is unique to pollo con crema.
Ingredients
The ingredients for pollo con crema are simple and easy to find. Here is a list of what you will need:
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Here is how to prepare pollo con crema:
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Add the onions and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth and stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the sour cream, stirring until it is well blended with the broth.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it with the sauce.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
- Stir in the cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with rice and beans, and tortillas if desired.
Variations
There are many variations of pollo con crema that you can try. Here are some ideas:
- Add diced tomatoes and green chilies for a bit of heat.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier version of the dish.
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve the dish with corn tortillas instead of rice and beans.
Conclusion
Pollo con crema is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The creamy sauce and tender chicken are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a taste of Guatemala in your own kitchen. Give pollo con crema a try and experience the flavors of this amazing dish for yourself!