Description
Learn how to make delicious Sancocho Colombiano with our comprehensive guide. Discover tips, variations, and serving suggestions for this traditional Colombian stew.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make Sancocho Colombiano:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 2 lbs beef shank or 2 lbs fish fillets)
- 2 ears of corn, cut into pieces
- 2 green plantains, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 yuca roots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 bunch cilantro, chopped
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 8 cups chicken or beef broth (or fish stock)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground achiote (annatto)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to make your Sancocho Colombiano:
- Prep the Ingredients: Chop all vegetables and meats into appropriate sizes. Peel and cut the plantains, yuca, and potatoes into chunks.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large stockpot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and tomatoes. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Brown the Meat: Add the chicken pieces (or beef shank) to the pot. Brown the meat on all sides to develop flavor.
- Add Broth and Spices: Pour in the chicken or beef broth (or fish stock) and add the ground cumin, ground achiote, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 1 hour if using chicken or fish, or 2-3 hours if using beef shank. This allows the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld.
- Add Vegetables: Add the corn pieces, plantains, yuca, and potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 30 minutes.
- Finish with Cilantro: Stir in the chopped cilantro and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the sancocho into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of meat, vegetables, and broth. Serve with lime wedges on the side.
Notes
- Meat Alternatives: For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and additional root vegetables.
- Broth Alternatives: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly stew.
- Yuca Alternatives: If yuca is not available, you can substitute it with potatoes or sweet potatoes for a different texture and flavor.