Entree: Peru – Afro-Peruvian – Anticuchos (Skewered, marinated and grilled beef heart served with traditional Peruvian seasonings)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 20 min

Cook 12 min

Additional 2 hrs 30 min

Total 2 hrs 30 min

Ingredients

- 2 lb (900 g) beef heart, trimmed and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) cubes
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) aji panca paste (or aji panca rehydrated paste)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
- 3 tbsp (45 ml) vegetable oil
- 4 cloves (about 12 g) garlic, minced
- 1 tsp (5 g) ground cumin
- 1 tsp (5 g) smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 g) coarse salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
- 8–10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water 30 minutes
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) oil for grilling or brushing
- 1 lb (450 g) small wax or Peruvian potatoes (or baby potatoes), boiled until tender
- 1 ear (or 1 cup / 165 g) Peruvian choclo or corn on the cob, boiled (optional)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- For the spicy sauce (occasional accompaniment):
  - 3 tbsp (45 ml) aji amarillo paste
  - 2 tbsp (30 ml) mayonnaise or 2 tbsp (30 ml) plain yogurt
  - 1 tsp (5 ml) lime juice
  - Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Combine aji panca paste, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, vegetable oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice in a bowl to make the marinade. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add the beef heart cubes to the marinade, toss to coat thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight for best flavor.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat a grill or cast-iron pan to high heat.
4. Thread the marinated heart cubes onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
5. Brush skewers lightly with oil and grill over high heat 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare to medium, turning to develop a good char but avoid overcooking (adjust time for desired doneness).
6. While skewers cook, warm boiled potatoes and corn. Mix the spicy sauce ingredients if using and adjust seasoning.
7. Remove skewers from heat and rest 2 minutes. Serve anticuchos hot with boiled potatoes, corn, chopped cilantro, and the spicy aji sauce on the side.