Are you a fan of BBQ chicken? If you haven’t tried Santa Maria style grilled Pollo Asado, you’re missing out on an incredible flavor experience. This classic dish from the Santa Maria Valley in California is known for its simple preparation and bold, smoky taste. In this post, we will explore the rich history and unique ingredients of Santa Maria style Pollo Asado, and show you how to recreate this mouth-watering meal at home. Get ready to elevate your grilling game with Santa Maria style Pollo Asado!
Introduction
When it comes to outdoor grilling, nothing beats the tantalizing aroma and taste of grilled chicken infused with delicious seasoning. While there are many ways to season and grill chicken, there’s one recipe that stands out from the rest – Santa Maria Style Grilled Pollo Asado. This dish is a beloved favorite of many Mexican food enthusiasts, and for a good reason. In this article, we will delve into the secrets of this sumptuous dish and uncover how to prepare it to perfection.
What is Santa Maria Style Grilled Pollo Asado?
Santa Maria Style Grilled Pollo Asado is a Mexican dish that consists of marinated chicken seasoned with a mixture of Achiote and Mexican spices and grilled over an open flame. This dish is favored for its moist, juicy, and succulent taste that is sure to hit just the right spot. To prepare this mouth-watering dish, you don’t need to be a professional chef, and with a little bit of practice, you can create an authentic grilled Pollo Asado in your backyard.
Getting started: The Marinade
The secret to creating a delicious Pollo Asado lies in the marinade. To make the marinade, you’ll need Achiote, a mix of herbs and spices including olive oil, oregano, black pepper, cumin, chili powder, garlic, and lime juice. Combine all these ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk thoroughly to create a homogenous mix.
Once the mix is complete, add orange juice and Achiote paste to it and mix again. The Achiote paste gives the marinade a deep red color that stains the chicken and adds a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. After whisking the marinade, rub it all over your chicken and refrigerate it for an hour to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Grilling the Chicken
After marinating the chicken, it’s time to cook it on the grill. For an authentic Santa Maria Style Grilled Pollo Asado, you’ll need a Weber kettle grill with a Santa Maria attachment, which will allow the chicken to cook evenly and produce a succulent and smoky flavor. Additionally, you’ll require hickory chunks, which add a slightly smoky flavor to the chicken.
To begin grilling, remove the chicken from the marinade and allow any excess liquid to drain off. Place the chicken quarters on the grill and cook over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes. Next, turn the chicken quarters over and cook on the other side for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the desired internal temperature is reached.
The internal temperature of the chicken should be around 175-185°F for thighs and 160-165°F for breasts. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, or if you prefer to check it manually, make sure the juices of the chicken run clear when pierced with a fork.
Serve Hot, Fresh off the Grill
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the meat to reabsorb some of its juices and ensures optimal tenderness and taste. After resting, serve the chicken hot and fresh off the grill, garnished with your favorite toppings.
Conclusion
Santa Maria Style Grilled Pollo Asado is a perfect dish for those who love to grill chicken or desire to bring a touch of the Mexican flavor into their backyard. The juicy and succulent taste will make your taste buds dance, leaving you craving for more. Follow the tips highlighted in this article and you can be sure to create an authentic and mouthwatering Pollo Asado in the comfort of your home.
5 Unique FAQs about Santa Maria Style Grilled Pollo Asado
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What is Achiote, and can I substitute it in the recipe?
A: Achiote is a natural orange-red food coloring and seasoning that has a slightly nutty and sweet taste. You can easily substitute Achiote with paprika or turmeric, although the taste may differ slightly. -
How long should I marinate the chicken?
A: It’s recommended to marinate the chicken for an hour to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat thoroughly. -
Can I grill Pollo Asado without a Santa Maria attachment?
A: While it’s recommended to use a Santa Maria attachment for the most authentic flavor, you can grill Pollo Asado using a regular grill. However, the taste may differ slightly from the traditional recipe. -
What are the best toppings for Pollo Asado?
A: The best toppings for Pollo Asado include cilantro, lime, avocado, and onions. -
How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is fully cooked. The internal temperature should be around 175-185°F for thighs and 160-165°F for breasts. Alternatively, you can pierce the chicken with a fork, and if the juices run clear, then it’s fully cooked.
