
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsAjiaco Bogotano is one of Colombia's most beloved traditional soups, originating from the capital city of Bogotá. This rich and creamy soup features tender chicken, three varieties of potatoes that create a naturally thick texture, fresh corn on the cob, and the distinctive guascas herb that gives it an authentic Colombian flavor. The soup is traditionally served with white rice on the side and garnished with capers, heavy cream, and fresh avocado slices. Each spoonful delivers layers of flavor and different potato textures - from creamy dissolved potatoes to tender chunks. This one-pot meal is deeply satisfying and represents the heart of Colombian home cooking, bringing families together around the table. The long simmering process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.
Instructions
step by stepRinse the chicken breasts and place them in a large stockpot with 10 cups of water. Add the garlic cloves, half of the chopped onion, and salt to taste. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 40 minutes until chicken is fully cooked.
While the chicken cooks, peel the potatoes. Cut the white potatoes into large chunks. Slice the red potatoes into rounds. Cut the yellow potatoes (papas criollas) in half if large, or leave whole if small.
Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Strain the broth and return it to the pot. Once chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Add the white potato chunks to the broth and bring to a boil. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. These potatoes will break down and thicken the soup.
Add the red potato slices, yellow potatoes, and corn pieces to the pot. Add the remaining chopped onion and cilantro. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for 20 minutes until all potatoes are tender.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir gently. Cook for 5 more minutes to heat the chicken through.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The soup should be thick and creamy from the dissolved white potatoes.
Serve hot in deep bowls, making sure each serving has chicken, all types of potatoes, and corn. Place capers, heavy cream, and avocado slices on the table for guests to add as desired. Serve with white rice on the side.
Ajiaco Bogotano
A hearty Colombian chicken and potato soup from Bogotá, made with three types of potatoes, corn, guascas herb, and served with capers, cream, and avocado. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 800 grams chicken-breast, whole, bone-in preferred
- 4 pieces potatoes, white potatoes, peeled and chunked
- 3 pieces potatoes, red potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 500 grams potatoes, yellow baby potatoes, halved
- 3 pieces corn, fresh corn on the cob, cut into thirds
Aromatics
- 1 pieces onions, medium, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed
- 3 tablespoons cilantro, fresh, chopped
Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
Garnishes
- 1/2 cups heavy-cream (optional)
- 2 pieces avocado, sliced (optional)