Curious about Peruvian Polladas? Dive into the origins of this captivating tradition and discover the delectable dishes prepared for this unique social gathering.
What is a Peruvian 'Pollada'?
In its essence, a Pollada is a social gathering centered around a chicken-based dish. It's an occasion where friends, family, and neighbours unite to enjoy music and culinary delights, often with the purpose of raising funds for a specific cause.
Attendees typically contribute a nominal fee for their "ticket," gaining access to an afternoon filled with festivities, including music, dancing, games, and a hearty meal, usually hosted in the home of the organiser.
The term "Pollada" stems from the Spanish word "Pollo," meaning "Chicken." A typical Pollada feast features roasted chicken accompanied by potatoes, salad, and an array of sauces. Guests may also be encouraged to bring their own side dishes or desserts, creating a communal buffet-style experience.
What happens with the money raised at a Pollada?
The funds raised at a Pollada are typically directed towards charitable causes or community projects. While there are no strict rules regarding the purpose of a Pollada, it is often organised to support specific initiatives such as:
Medical: If a family member, or someone in the local neighbourhood, falls ill or sustains an injury, a Pollada may be organised to raise funds for their medical treatment and related expenses.
Education: Polladas can be arranged to support educational initiatives, including funding for school supplies, scholarships, extracurricular activities, or infrastructure improvements in schools.
Charitable Projects: Organisations or individuals may host Polladas to raise money for charitable projects aimed at assisting vulnerable populations, such as homeless shelters, orphanages, or hospitals.
How to Prepare a Traditional Peruvian Pollada Meal
Below is a video showing how to prepare a traditional Peruvian Pollada step-by-step:
Pollada Ingredients
1 whole chicken
6-8 tablespoons of aji panca paste
2 tablespoons of garlic paste
1-2 tablespoons of soy sauce
1-2 tablespoons of red or white vinegar
1/2 squeezed lemon
1/2 tablespoon of ginger extract (juice)
1/2 cup of dark or blonde beer
1 tablespoon of mustard
Salt, pepper and cumin to taste
1/2 teaspoon of oregano powder
1/2 teaspoon of sugar
Crema de Rocoto (Rocoto Sauce):
3 rocoto chillis
1 onion
2 cloves of garlic
2 slices of bread
Squeeze of lime juice (opcional)
Salt and pepper to taste