Recipe to prepare Guinea Pig: A delicious culinary pleasure

Gastronomy is a journey that leads us to explore flavors and traditions of diverse cultures around the world. One of the most precious and emblematic culinary jewels of the Andean region is the guinea pig, also known as guinea pig or guinea pig . This small but tasty creature has been an essential part of the diet of Andean populations for centuries.

Origins and Cultural Significance of the Guinea Pig

The guinea pig, Cavia porcellus , is native to South America and has been domesticated by the ancient inhabitants of the Andes since time immemorial. In pre-Columbian civilizations, the guinea pig had important cultural and ceremonial significance, as well as being an essential protein source in the diet. Their upbringing became a vital domestic activity for families, and their meat was considered a delicacy reserved for special occasions.

Essential Ingredients

Before diving into the preparation process, it is important to know the basic ingredients required for this traditional guinea pig recipe:

2 clean and eviscerated guinea pigs
4 crushed garlic cloves
1 tablespoon ají panca (red chili paste)
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons chicha de jora or dark beer
Potatoes and vegetables to taste (carrots, corn, broad beans)

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinade and Marinade

• In a bowl, mix the crushed garlic, ají panca, cumin, black pepper, salt, and vegetable oil to create an adobo paste.
• Generously spread each guinea pig with this paste, making sure to cover it completely.
• Place the marinated guinea pigs in a bowl and cover them with transparent plastic. Let marinate in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld deeply.

Step 2: Traditional Cooking

• Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Remove the guinea pigs from the refrigerator and place them in a baking dish.
• Pour the chicha de jora or the dark beer over the guinea pigs.
• Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and falls easily from the bone.

Step 3: Andean Accompaniments

• While the guinea pigs are baking, you can prepare the traditional accompaniments.
• Boil the potatoes and vegetables to taste in salted water until tender. Drain them and reserve them.

Step 4: Presentation and Tasting

• Once the guinea pigs are done, remove them from the oven and discard the foil.
• Serve each guinea pig on a plate accompanied by potatoes and cooked vegetables.
• The guinea pig is traditionally served whole, allowing diners to enjoy its juicy and tender meat.

The recipe to prepare guinea pig is a tribute to the rich history and culture of the Andes. This traditional dish allows us to connect with the ancestral roots of the region and experience the flavors that have been passed down from generation to generation. The combination of spices and slow marination result in a tender meat full of flavor, which perfectly complements the Andean accompaniments.