Flavorful, Comforting Ajiaco Colombiano Soup

There’ nothing quite like a bowl of hot, flavorful soup to comfort and nourish — and when it comes to easy Colombian food recipes, the iconic Ajiaco recipe stands in a league of its own. This traditional Colombian chicken and potato soup is a rich, hearty dish brimming with flavor, soul, and history. Known as Ajiaco Colombiano, it’s a beloved staple in Bogotá and across Colombia, and a must-try for anyone diving into South American soup recipes.

Whether you’re new to Colombian soup or grew up with it simmering on your grandmother’s stove, this dish is warm, filling, and satisfying. Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or impressing guests with your culinary range, Ajiaco is more than a meal — it’s a comforting experience steeped in tradition.

What Is Ajiaco Colombiano? A Hearty Colombian Stew Explained

Ajiaco Colombiano is a chicken-based soup loaded with three types of potatoes, herbs, and corn on the cob, traditionally topped with capers, cream, and avocado. What makes it especially unique is the addition of guascas, an herb native to Colombia that gives the soup its signature earthy taste.

Unlike lighter broths, this Colombian stew is thick and satisfying thanks to the starchy potatoes that break down into the soup, giving it a creamy texture without the need for dairy. It’s one of the most iconic Columbian soup recipes — balancing freshness, comfort, and depth of flavor in every spoonful.

For another warming, hearty dish perfect for cooler days, try this rich carne desmechada (Colombian pulled beef) — another gem from Colombian cuisine.

Why This Ajiaco Recipe Is One of the Best Colombian Soup Recipes

If you’re looking to expand your collection of Colombian soup recipes, this one deserves a spot at the top. Here’s why:

• Nutrient-dense and hearty: Packed with potatoes, corn, and protein-rich chicken
• Naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for various diets
• Deeply flavorful yet simple: Only a handful of core ingredients create robust taste
• Culturally rich: A true taste of Colombian heritage and culinary pride

Whether you’re exploring South American soup recipes or just want a cozy, healthy dish, this Ajiaco recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Ajiaco: Traditional Colombian Soup Essentials

To create an authentic Ajiaco Colombiano recipe, you’ll need these traditional ingredients:

• 3 bone-in chicken breasts (skinless)
• 12 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 ears of corn on the cob, cut into thirds
• 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 2 large red potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 4 small yellow potatoes (or papas criollas), halved
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried guascas (available online or in Latin grocery stores)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving:

• Sliced avocado
• Capers
• Heavy cream or crema
• White rice (optional, served on the side)

If you’re looking to include another traditional favorite with your Ajiaco, consider pairing it with garlic mushrooms and cauliflower for a veggie-packed side.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Ajiaco Colombiano at Home

Making Ajiaco is a simple process, but it’s important to layer the ingredients to build depth. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Start the base: In a large stockpot, add water or broth, chicken breasts, scallions, garlic, and corn. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 30 minutes, skimming off any foam.
2. Add the potatoes: Add sliced russet and red potatoes. Continue to simmer for another 30–40 minutes until they start to break down.
3. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
4. Add papas criollas and guascas: Stir in the yellow potatoes and guascas. Simmer another 20 minutes until everything is tender and the soup thickens.
5. Season and serve: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Serve hot with avocado slices, cream, and capers.

Want something sweet to round off the meal? Try these buttery-soft apple butter streusel muffins as dessert.

Best Potatoes to Use in Colombian Chicken and Potato Soup

One of the defining features of Ajiaco Colombiano is its use of three different types of potatoes, each adding something special to the dish:

• Russet potatoes: Break down easily and give the soup body
• Red potatoes: Hold their shape and add texture
• Papas criollas (yellow potatoes): Provide richness and creaminess

If you can’t find papas criollas, try using baby Yukon golds for a similar creamy texture.

Essential Kitchen Tools for This South American Soup Recipe

To make this flavorful Colombian chicken soup at home, you’ll need:

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Tongs or slotted spoon
• Ladle for serving
• Small bowls for toppings

Simple tools, simple cleanup — perfect for anyone looking to expand their collection of easy Colombian food recipes.

Tips for Perfect Ajiaco Every Time (Texture + Flavor Secrets)

Here’s how to elevate your Ajiaco Colombiano recipe:

• Simmer low and slow for better flavor
• Use bone-in chicken to create a rich broth
• Don’t skip guascas — it’s the heart of the dish
• Add toppings just before serving for the best texture contrast

Looking for a cozy weekend treat? Pair this with a warming drink like chai spiced hot chocolate for a satisfying combo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Colombian Stew Recipes

Avoid these missteps when making Colombian chicken and potato soup:

• Cooking on high heat: Toughens the chicken
• Using one type of potato: Misses the creamy complexity
• Skipping guascas: Changes the flavor entirely
• Over-shredding chicken: Makes the texture too fine

These are common issues in many Colombian stew or South American soup recipes, so following the proper steps makes a big difference.

Ajiaco Variations: Regional Twists on This Colombian Classic

There’s more than one way to enjoy Ajiaco:

• Spicy Ajiaco: Add fresh chili or hot sauce
• Creamier version: Mix in crema or soft cheese
• Vegetarian Ajiaco: Use mushrooms and veggie broth
• Ajiaco with plantains or yuca: Adds a sweet-savory twist

If you’re in the mood to try another Latin American dish, give this carne desmechada (Colombian pulled beef) a go — it’s also a family favorite.

What to Serve with Ajiaco: Toppings, Sides & Meal Ideas

Traditionally, Ajiaco is served with:

• Avocado slices
• Capers
• Cream or crema
• White rice
• Arepas or toasted bread

Want to add more sides? Try parmesan crusted brussels sprouts or garlic parmesan sweet potato wedges for a delicious fusion twist.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers from Ajiaco Soup

Like most stews, Ajiaco tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
• Freeze: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months
• Reheat: Simmer gently over the stove, adding water or broth as needed

Freeze in single-serving batches for easy meals on busy days.

Why Ajiaco Belongs in Every Easy Colombian Food Recipes List

This dish ticks all the boxes for the best easy Colombian food recipes:

• Simple ingredients
• One-pot convenience
• Deep, layered flavors
• Meal-prep friendly
• Family approved

Whether you’re new to Latin cooking or looking to celebrate Colombian culture, Ajiaco is one recipe you’ll want to make on repeat.

FAQs About Colombian Chicken and Potato Soup

Can I make Ajiaco in a slow cooker?
Yes, just add all ingredients (except guascas) and cook on low for 6–7 hours. Add guascas in the last hour.

What’s a substitute for guascas?
Oregano is a possible replacement, but nothing truly mimics guascas’ unique flavor.

Can I make this with boneless chicken?
Yes, though bone-in gives a richer broth.

How spicy is Ajiaco?
Not at all — it’s mild and family-friendly. Spice can be added to taste.

Final Thoughts: The Rich Tradition of Ajiaco in Colombian Cuisine

Whether you’re new to Columbian soup recipes or just craving something hearty, this Ajiaco recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s a soup, a stew, a cultural experience — and a dish that brings people together around the table.

Warm, filling, and full of authentic Colombian flavor, Ajiaco is everything you want in a meal. Try it once, and you’ll understand why it’s beloved across generations.

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