Crispy Andean Delight

Ingredients

• 2 guinea pigs, cleaned and quartered 2 guinea pigs, cleaned and quartered
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cumin powder 1 tablespoon cumin powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 4 golden potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges 4 golden potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
• Aji sauce, for serving Aji sauce, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin powder, paprika, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Rub the spice mixture all over the guinea pig quarters, ensuring they are evenly coated. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more intense flavors.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan or deep fryer to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Carefully place the marinated guinea pig quarters into the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy, about 10-12 minutes per side. Ensure the meat is cooked through.
5. 5.
   While the guinea pig is frying, heat another pan with vegetable oil and fry the potato wedges until golden and crispy.
6. 6.
   Once cooked, remove the guinea pig quarters from the oil and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the Cuy Frito hot, accompanied by the crispy golden potatoes and aji sauce.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Guinea pig — Ensure the guinea pig is thoroughly cleaned before marinating. If guinea pig is not available, you can substitute it with rabbit or chicken for a similar texture and flavor.
• Aji sauce — Adjust the spiciness of the aji sauce according to your preference by adding more or less chili peppers.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy texture, you can double-fry the guinea pig quarters. After the first fry, let them rest for a few minutes, then fry them again until they reach the desired crispiness.
• Serve the Cuy Frito with a side of fresh lime wedges to add a tangy citrus element to each bite.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of smoked paprika in the spice mixture.

Serving advice

Serve the Cuy Frito on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Accompany it with the crispy golden potato wedges and a generous bowl of aji sauce for dipping.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden-brown guinea pig quarters on the platter, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Place the crispy potato wedges around the meat, creating an appealing contrast of colors. Drizzle some aji sauce over the guinea pig and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.