What is Choritos a la Chalaca?

Choritos a la Chalaca is a delicious Peruvian-style mussel dish. It features fresh mussels topped with a vibrant salsa known as Chalaca, made from tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and spices. The result is a burst of flavours that perfectly complements the natural taste of the mussels.

Where can I find fresh mussels for this recipe?

You can typically find fresh mussels at your local seafood market or well-stocked grocery store. Look for tightly closed mussels or those close when tapped, indicating freshness. Make sure to clean and debeard them before cooking.

Can I use frozen mussels for this recipe?

While fresh mussels are recommended for the best flavour, you can use frozen mussels as a convenient alternative. Thaw the chill mussels according to the package instructions before cooking. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly from fresh mussels.

Can I customise the Chalaca salsa to suit my taste preferences?

Absolutely! The beauty of Chalaca salsa lies in its versatility. Please feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities to achieve the balance of flavours you want. Some prefer more heat with additional chilli, while others might enjoy extra lime for a tangier kick.

How do I clean and debeard fresh mussels?

Scrub and wash mussels under cold running water to remove debris or barnacles. Check for any open mussels and tap them; discard them if they don't close. To debeard, pull the fibrous "beard" protruding from the shell using a firm, outward motion. This step ensures your mussels are clean and ready for cooking.

Can I prepare Choritos a la Chalaca in advance?

While it's best to enjoy Choritos a la Chalaca immediately after cooking for the freshest taste and texture, you can prepare specific components in advance. Clean and debeard the mussels ahead of time, and you can also prepare the Chalaca salsa a few hours before serving. Assemble the dish just before you're ready to enjoy it to maintain its vibrancy.

What are some suggested side dishes to serve with Choritos a la Chalaca?

Choritos, a la Chalaca, pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the flavourful juices. A simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can also complement the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mussels and salsa.

Choritos a la chalaca - Peruvian-style mussels recipe

Name: Choritos a la chalaca - Peruvian-style mussels recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 24 mussels; 2 chopped red onions; 1 tomato, peeled and chopped; 1 rocoto pepper, chopped; 1 cup of cooked corn; 1/3 cup of lime juice; 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil; coarse salt and pepper; 1/2 teaspoon chopped coriander

Description

You will find this appetiser in every “Cevicheria” around Peru. It is refreshing and will be a perfect way to entertain in warmer water.

Ingredients

Units Scale

24 mussels
2 chopped red onions
1 tomato, peeled and chopped
1 rocoto pepper, chopped
1 cup of cooked corn
1/3 cup of lime juice
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
coarse salt and pepper
1/2 teaspoon chopped coriander

Instructions

Clean and debeard the mussels, discarding the hair attached to them under cold water.
Steamed the mussels in a large pot, covering them with water, and let them cook until they open. Discard the mussels that don’t open. Let them cool down for 15 minutes.
Carefully open the mussels and remove the top shell from each mussel.
Prepare the “Chalaca” sauce by mixing chopped onions, tomato, “rocoto” pepper, and corn kernels. Season them with lime juice, chopped coriander, oil, salt and pepper.
Serve the “Chalaca” sauce over each mussel and enjoy them at room temperature or cool. Pair it with a nice cold beer or cold beverage.

Keywords: Choritos a la chalaca, peruvian mussels, chalaca mussels