By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on July 9, 2023 | Last Updated on November 4, 2023
Are you looking for a new seafood dish to try in the kitchen? Look no further than Pescado a lo Macho!
This classic Peruvian dish is full of flavor and can be enjoyed by the whole family. The combination of the ingredients makes this dish a delicious and unique culinary experience.
In this article, we will provide you with the ingredients, step-by-step instructions on how to make Pescado a lo Macho, as well as tips and nutrition information. So let’s get cooking!
What is Pescado a lo Macho?
Pescado a lo Macho is a traditional Peruvian dish that originated in the coastal regions of Peru.
It is typically made with white fish, mussels, shrimp, squid, clams, octopus, and potatoes all cooked in an aromatic sauce full of flavor. The combination of the ingredients gives this dish a wonderful balance of flavors.
What does it taste like?
Pescado a lo Macho has a light and slightly sweet flavor that is complemented by the spiciness of the chili peppers.
The fish and shellfish are cooked perfectly in the sauce, giving them a tender texture, while the potatoes add an extra layer of heartiness to the dish.
How did I first get introduced to the Pescado a lo Macho?
I first got introduced to the Pescado a lo Macho dish at Seafood Grill & Rooftop Bar Pescado, in the United States. As soon as I stepped into the restaurant, I was captivated by its unique atmosphere and incredible views of the city.
The smell of freshly cooked seafood filled the air, and my mouth was watering as soon as I saw their menu.I decided to order the Pescado a lo Macho, which is one of their most popular dishes.
When it arrived, I was amazed by the presentation. The white fish and seafood were cooked to perfection in a creamy sauce with red chili peppers and lime wedges.
I took my first bite of the dish, and it was one of the best things I had ever tasted! The flavors were so unique and complex, yet balanced.
The fish was tender, and the potatoes added a nice texture to it. I could taste the sweetness of the white wine and the acidity of the limes, and I was hooked right away.
How to make Pescado a lo Macho?
Making Pescado a lo Macho is not difficult, but it does require some preparation and planning. Here are the ingredients & step-by-step instructions you will need:
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Ingredients
- Whitefish: This is the main ingredient for this dish, and it can be any type of white fish. Trout, cod, haddock, or halibut are all great options!
- Mussels: Mussels offer a unique sweetness to the dish and make it more flavorful.
- Shrimp: Shrimp adds a nice texture and its flavor pairs well with other ingredients in the dish.
- Squid: Squid is tender, juicy, and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients in this dish.
- Clams: Clams have a briny flavor that balances out the other flavors in the dish.
- Octopus: Octopus is chewy and has an umami flavor that adds complexity to the dish.
- Onion: Onions add depth of flavor to any recipe, and they are especially important for this one!
- Garlic: Garlic gives the dish a subtle hint of sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
- Tomato: Tomatoes add a bright and fresh flavor to the dish, making it even more delicious.
- Aji Amarillo molido/ají panca molido: These are two types of Peruvian chili peppers that give the dish a unique spicy kick.
- White Wine: White wine adds acidity and helps to enhance the flavors of the fish.
- Pisco: Pisco is Solido’s popular Peruvian liquor made from grape brandy that adds complexity and depth to the dish.
- Cream: Cream adds richness and creaminess to the dish, making it even more decadent.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are hearty and offer a nice contrast in texture to other ingredients.
- Limes: Limes add a zesty flavor and acidity that brings out the flavors of the fish.
- Salt, pepper, and cumin: These spices are essential for this dish, they help to elevate the other flavors in the dish.
- Vegetable oil: Vegetable oil is used for frying and helps to make a delicious crispy crust on the outside of the fish.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1
Start by heating some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2
Once the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Step 3
Add the tomato, chili peppers, wine, pisco, cream, salt, pepper, and cumin to the skillet. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4
Add the fish, mussels, shrimp, squid, clams, and octopus to the sauce in the skillet. Gently stir everything together and cover it with a lid. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
Step 5
Add the potatoes to the skillet and stir everything together. Allow to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 6
Remove from heat and squeeze the limes over the dish. Serve immediately with some white rice and enjoy!
Tips
-If you don’t have access to any of the Peruvian chili peppers, you can substitute them with regular red chili flakes.
-For a richer flavor, try adding some tomato paste or chopped tomatoes to the sauce.
-Make sure that the fish is cooked through before serving. If it’s not cooked enough, cover and continue to simmer for a few more minutes.
-If you want to add some heat, try adding some hot sauce or chili powder to the dish.
Pescado a lo Macho Recipe
Equipment
- Skillet
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil for sautéing the ingredients to perfection
- 1/2 tablespoon of “aji Amarillo molido ” a vibrant Peruvian chili pepper paste
- 3 medium-sized shrimp carefully selected for their sweetness and tender texture
- 3 oz of boiled octopus artfully sliced into small, bite-sized pieces
- 1 fillet of succulent white fish sourced from the pristine waters of the sea
- 1/4 white onion finely chopped, adding a delicate pungency to the dish
- 3 oz of tender squid expertly cut into delightful rings
- 3 clean clams meticulously prepared for a delightful briny flavor
- 2 cloves of garlic finely chopped, releasing their aromatic essence
- 1/4 cup of exquisite white wine chosen for its delicate notes and complexity
- 1/2 oz of authentic Pisco Peruvian lending a touch of sophistication to the dish
- 2 plump mussels freshly harvested from coastal shores
- 2 tablespoons of luscious cream adding a creamy and velvety texture
- 1/2 tablespoon of “ají panca molido ” a rich and smoky Peruvian chili pepper paste
- 1 medium-sized golden potato peeled, boiled, and seared to perfection, cut in half
- 1.5 limes cut into 4 pieces each, providing a zesty burst of citrus
- Salt to your discerning taste, accentuating the flavors harmoniously
- Pepper freshly ground to add a hint of warmth and complexity
- Cumin carefully measured to impart its earthy and aromatic essence
- 1/2 tomato peeled, deseeded, and finely chopped, imparting a subtle tanginess
Instructions
- Start by heating some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the tomato, chili peppers, wine, pisco, cream, salt, pepper, and cumin to the skillet. Stir everything together and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the fish, mussels, shrimp, squid, clams, and octopus to the sauce in the skillet. Gently stir everything together and cover it with a lid. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
- Add the potatoes to the skillet and stir everything together. Allow to cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and squeeze the limes over the dish. Serve immediately with some white rice and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Information
Calories: 500 kcal
Fat: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Protein: 49 g
Sodium: 443 mg
Cholesterol: 68 mg
What to serve with Pescado a lo Macho?
Pescado a lo Macho is best served with some white rice and/or potatoes. It’s also great with crusty bread or roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peppers.
For an even more filling meal, you can add a side of beans or some guacamole. Also, don’t forget to serve it with a glass of white wine or a Pisco sour for the perfect end to your meal.
How to store leftover Pescado a lo Macho?
Leftover Pescado a lo Macho should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply place the dish in a skillet over medium heat and stir until warmed through.
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat Pescado a lo Macho. However, it is important to make sure that all of the ingredients are cooked through before consuming.
Additionally, be sure to keep an eye on alcohol intake when eating this dish. As always, consult with your doctor or nutritionist for more information about what is safe for you and your baby.
FAQs
Does Pescado a lo Macho contain gluten?
No, this dish does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients and is safe for those with gluten sensitivities or allergies.
What can I use instead of white wine in Pescado a lo Macho?
If you don’t have access to white wine, you can substitute it with dry white vermouth or vegetable broth. Just be sure to adjust the amount of liquid added accordingly.
Does Pescado a lo Macho have dairy?
Yes, this dish does contain dairy in the form of cream. If you are looking for a non-dairy version, you can substitute the cream with vegan alternatives like coconut milk creamer or almond milk.
Wrapping Up
Thank you for taking the time to learn about Pescado a lo Macho. This traditional Peruvian dish is sure to please everyone in your family!
With its mix of flavorful ingredients and hearty proteins, it’s a great meal option that can easily be made with ingredients found at home. Follow the recipe above and enjoy this delicious dish!
Please share this article with your friends and family if you found it helpful. Also, don’t forget to leave a comment below with any questions or thoughts!
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
