Crispy Roasted Guinea Pig with Chinese-inspired Flavors

Ingredients

In the original Peruvian dish, Cuy al palo, the guinea pig is typically marinated with local Peruvian ingredients such as aji panca (Peruvian red pepper) and cooked over an open flame. In this adapted recipe, we incorporate Chinese flavors by using soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and Chinese five-spice powder. The cooking method is also modified to roast the guinea pig in the oven, resulting in a crispy texture. We alse have the original recipe for Cuy al palo, so you can check it out.

• 1 guinea pig, cleaned and dressed 1 guinea pig, cleaned and dressed
• 4 tablespoons soy sauce 4 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons ginger, grated 2 tablespoons ginger, grated
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder 1 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for brushing Vegetable oil for brushing

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 0g, 0g
• Protein: 50g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, Chinese five-spice powder, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Place the guinea pig in a large baking dish and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more intense flavors.
4. 4.
   Brush the guinea pig with vegetable oil to promote crispiness.
5. 5.
   Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through.
6. 6.
   Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
7. 7.
   Carve the guinea pig into serving portions and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Guinea pig — Ensure that the guinea pig is thoroughly cleaned and dressed before marinating. If guinea pig is not available, you can substitute it with rabbit or Cornish game hen.
• Chinese five-spice powder — If you don't have Chinese five-spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a crispier skin, you can increase the oven temperature to 220°C (425°F) for the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Serve the roasted guinea pig with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a dash of chili oil or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the guinea pig before roasting.

Serving advice

Serve the Chinese-inspired crispy roasted guinea pig as the main course of a festive dinner. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables.

Presentation advice

Present the roasted guinea pig on a large platter, showcasing its crispy skin. Arrange the carved portions neatly and garnish with sprigs of fresh cilantro. Serve with the side dishes on separate plates for an elegant presentation.