Ingredients

3 dried red aji peppers
1/2 cup hot water
1 onion , quartered
5 cloves garlic
1/2 can or bottle beer
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cumin
3 pounds boneless pork loin roast , fat trimmed off
1 cup water , or as needed to cover
3 whole allspice berries
1 tablespoon dried oregano
3 onions , cut into strips
Adobo Arequipeno is a traditional Peruvian dish hailing from the city of Arequipa in the southern part of the country. It is a slow-cooked pork dish that is typically served with rice or potatoes and a side of salad. The dish is characterized by its use of dried aji peppers, which give it its distinct sweet and spicy flavor. Adobo Arequipeno is notable for being a hearty meal that is perfect for colder weather, as it is both warming and satisfying. While the dish may be unfamiliar to those outside of Peru, it is a staple in Peruvian cuisine and a beloved comfort food for many.

Instructions

1.Preheat oven to 350°F.
2.Cut the dried aji peppers in half, and remove the seeds and stems. In a small bowl, soak the aji peppers in the hot water for at least 15 minutes.
3.In a blender or food processor, combine the soaked aji peppers and their soaking water, quartered onion, garlic, beer, salt, and cumin. Puree until smooth.
4.Cut the trimmed pork loin into 2 inch cubes.
5.In a large oven-safe dutch oven or pot, combine the pureed aji pepper mixture and the pork cubes. Add enough water to cover the pork.
6.Add the allspice berries and dried oregano to the pot.
7.Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
8.Bake for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
9.In a frying pan, cook the sliced onions over medium heat until brown and caramelized.
10.Serve the Adobo Arequipeno hot with the caramelized onions on top.

PROS

This dish is rich and flavorful, with a unique spicy-sweet taste from the aji peppers.

The pork cubes are tender and melt-in-your-mouth, making for a satisfying meal.

CONS

Adobo Arequipeno is a moderately difficult dish to prepare, requiring some prep work and a long cooking time.

The dish is relatively high in calories and fat due to the pork and oil used in the recipe.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this dish is not particularly diet-friendly, it does contain protein and iron from the pork.
The aji peppers in the recipe have been linked to aiding in digestion and boosting metabolism.

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