Cuy Chactado
A classic Andean fried guinea pig marinated with garlic, chili, and cumin, pressed flat under a heavy weight for exceptionally crispy skin.
Ingredients
- 1 whole dressed guinea pig, flattened
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp aji amarillo paste
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup fine cornmeal
- 2 cups vegetable oil
Instructions
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1
Mix 6 minced garlic cloves, 2 tbsp aji amarillo paste, 2 tbsp fresh lime juice, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp fine sea salt, and 1/2 tsp ground black pepper in a bowl to form a smooth paste.
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2
Rub paste thoroughly over 1 flattened whole dressed guinea pig and rest for 15 minutes.
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3
Coat 1 flattened whole dressed guinea pig with 1/2 cup fine cornmeal on all sides, shaking off excess.
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4
Heat 2 cups vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
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5
Fry 1 flattened whole dressed guinea pig skin side down under a heavy weight for 12 minutes per side until skin is golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.