Authentic & Heartwarming Colombian Ajiaco Recipe – The Soul of Bogotá in a Bowl

Few dishes embody the warmth and comfort of Colombian food quite like Ajiaco, a rich and creamy chicken and potato soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. This traditional recipe hails from the capital city, Bogotá, and is loved for its hearty texture, distinctive flavor, and satisfying combination of tender chicken, three varieties of potatoes, and guascas — a unique Colombian herb that gives this soup its signature taste.

Whether you’re craving comfort food on a rainy day or looking to explore the heart of South American soup recipes, this Colombian Ajiaco Recipe will transport you straight to the Andean highlands with every spoonful.

If you love cozy soups and stews, you might also enjoy our Slow Cooker Chicken Stew or the creamy Turmeric Chicken Soup, both of which share the same soul-warming depth as this classic Colombian dish.

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What Is Ajiaco?

Ajiaco Colombiano is a beloved Colombian stew made with shredded chicken, corn on the cob, and three different types of potatoes — each contributing a unique texture and flavor. Traditionally, it’s served with capers, cream, and avocado on the side, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to taste.

The dish dates back to the pre-Columbian era and has deep cultural roots, often served during family gatherings, holidays, and Sunday lunches. It’s particularly associated with Bogotá, where the cold mountain air makes this hearty soup an ideal comfort meal.

If you appreciate traditional Latin flavors, try our Colombian Carne Desmechada (Colombian pulled beef) — another dish rich in cultural history and slow-cooked flavor.

Why This Recipe Works

This Ajiaco recipe captures the authentic taste of Colombian home cooking while being simple enough for any home kitchen. Here’s why it works so beautifully:

• Three-potato blend: Creates the signature thick, velvety texture.
• Poached chicken: Adds tenderness and subtle richness.
• Guascas: The essential Colombian herb that gives Ajiaco its distinctive flavor.
• Toppings bar: Everyone can personalize their bowl — a fun, interactive touch!

For another flavorful family meal, try our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers — another comforting dinner that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make Ajiaco Colombiano the authentic way:

Main Ingredients

• 3 chicken breasts or thighs (bone-in for flavor)
• 10 cups water or chicken stock
• 2 corn cobs, cut into halves or thirds
• 1 pound papas criollas (Colombian yellow potatoes), peeled
• 1 pound russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
• 1 pound red potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon dried guascas (essential Colombian herb)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Traditional Garnishes

• 1 cup heavy cream (or crema de leche)
• ½ cup chopped capers
• 1 large avocado, sliced
• Cooked white rice, to serve on the side

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If you can’t find papas criollas, you can substitute them with small Yukon Gold potatoes. The combination of potatoes is key to creating that signature Colombian texture — similar to how our Scalloped Potatoes achieve creaminess through layering.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare your Colombian Ajiaco, you’ll need:

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife
• Ladle for serving
• Bowls and small dishes for toppings

If you love simple equipment-friendly meals, our Vegetable Casserole is another wholesome, one-pot favorite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make the perfect Colombian Ajiaco:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot, add chicken, water (or stock), onion, garlic, and cilantro. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 35 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Remove the chicken, shred it with forks, and set aside. Strain the broth and return it to the pot.

Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Corn

Add the three types of potatoes and the corn pieces to the broth. Simmer uncovered over medium heat for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to break down.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Add salt, pepper, and guascas. Continue to cook for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the soup thickens naturally from the potatoes.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the shredded chicken to the pot and simmer for 10 more minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with cream, capers, avocado slices, and white rice on the side.

If you enjoy building layers of flavor like this, check out our Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce — another cozy dish where slow simmering brings everything together beautifully.

The Three Potato Secret

What makes Colombian Ajiaco so unique is its three-potato blend:

• Papas criollas: Melt into the broth for thickness and color.
• Russet potatoes: Break down slightly for creaminess.
• Red potatoes: Hold their shape and add bite.

This trio creates the creamy yet chunky consistency that defines Ajiaco Colombiano. It’s a technique you’ll also find in other South American soup recipes, where texture is just as important as flavor.

How to Serve Ajiaco Soup

Traditionally, Ajiaco is served in deep bowls with small side dishes for garnishes. Each person adds their own cream, capers, and avocado to taste — a charming and interactive element of Colombian dining.

Serve it with a side of white rice, and you have a full meal. Some Colombians also enjoy a slice of buttered bread or an arepa on the side, making it even more satisfying.

Looking for another Latin-inspired comfort dish? Try our Colombian Carne Desmechada — it pairs perfectly with Ajiaco for a hearty, authentic feast.

Recipe Tips for Success

To get the best results from your Ajiaco Recipe:

• Don’t skip the guascas — they’re essential for authentic flavor.
• Simmer slowly to let the potatoes thicken naturally.
• Use bone-in chicken for richer broth.
• Add fresh cilantro just before serving for brightness.
• Prepare garnishes in separate bowls for easy serving.

For another dish that balances creamy comfort with bold flavor, check out our Pumpkin Chicken Chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-boiling the potatoes: This can make the soup gummy instead of creamy.
• Skipping guascas: Without this herb, it loses its authentic Colombian taste.
• Adding cream too early: Stir in cream right before serving to avoid curdling.
• Using pre-cooked chicken: It won’t absorb the flavors as well.

Avoiding these mistakes will help your Ajiaco Colombiano turn out as rich and flavorful as what you’d find in Bogotá’s traditional kitchens.

Variations You Can Try

Every region and family in Colombia has their own twist on Ajiaco. Here are some popular variations:

• Ajiaco de Pollo y Papa Criolla: The classic Bogotá version with all three potatoes.
• Ajiaco Vegano: Swap chicken for hearty vegetables like carrots and hearts of palm.
• Ajiaco Antioqueño: Made with beef instead of chicken.
• Creamy Ajiaco: Add a bit of milk or coconut cream for extra richness.

If you enjoy experimenting with Latin flavors, try our Vegetarian Pasta Primavera for a lighter twist on a hearty meal.

What to Serve with Ajiaco

For a full Colombian meal, serve Ajiaco with:

• White rice
• Fried plantains (maduros or tostones)
• Arepas (Colombian corn cakes)
• Fresh avocado slices
• A light cucumber salad

You can also pair it with our Cucumber Dill Salad for a refreshing balance to the creamy soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Ajiaco freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm slowly on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture.

If you love meal prep–friendly recipes, our Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches are another make-ahead favorite.

Health Benefits and Nutrition Notes

Ajiaco isn’t just delicious — it’s nourishing, too. It’s naturally gluten-free and loaded with vitamins from the potatoes, protein from the chicken, and antioxidants from fresh herbs. The creamy broth provides warmth and energy, making it the perfect dish for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.

For another healthy yet flavorful dish, check out our Healthy Veggie Egg Scramble.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of guascas?
You can substitute with dried oregano or thyme, though the flavor won’t be identical.

Can I make Ajiaco in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6–8 hours, then shred the chicken and add it back at the end.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
You can, but the soup will lose some of its rich homemade broth flavor.

What potatoes are best for Ajiaco?
Use a mix of starchy and waxy potatoes — russet, red, and yellow — to mimic the traditional texture.

How do I make it creamier?
Mash some of the potatoes against the pot as they cook to thicken naturally.

Make This Authentic Colombian Ajiaco and Taste the Soul of Colombia

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Colombian Ajiaco — comforting, filling, and steeped in history. Whether you’re Colombian or simply in love with Latin food, this dish connects you to a culture that celebrates flavor, family, and warmth.

Bring the magic of Bogotá to your own kitchen tonight — and don’t forget to share this recipe and subscribe for more authentic and easy Colombian food recipes, like our Colombian Carne Desmechada or hearty Witch’s Cauldron Beef Stew.

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