Peru Part 5: Causa, An Exercise in Creativity

aji amarillo

🥗Healthier: aji panca

💰Cheaper: bell pepper

aji panca offers a milder flavor while bell pepper is more accessible.

cooked chicken

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: canned tuna

tofu provides a plant-based option, while canned tuna is budget-friendly.

mayonnaise

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

hard-boiled eggs

🥗Healthier: avocado

💰Cheaper: chickpeas

avocado adds creaminess, while chickpeas are a cost-effective protein.

Boil yellow potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes.

Peel and mash the potatoes in a bowl.

Mix in lime juice, aji amarillo, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Divide the potato mixture into two portions.

Spread half of the potato mixture in a serving dish, pressing down firmly.

Layer sliced avocado over the potato base.

Combine cooked chicken with mayonnaise and spread it over the avocado.

Top with the remaining potato mixture, smoothing it out.

Chill the assembled causa in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Slice the causa into portions for serving.

Garnish with sliced hard-boiled eggs, black olives, and parsley before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens