Rocoto
Rocoto, a spicy pepper found at altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 meters above sea level in regions such as Ancash, Arequipa, Ayacucho, Cusco, Huánuco, Junín, Moquegua, and Puno, is recognized for its health benefits. Rich in capsaicin, Rocoto exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that can help manage hypertension. Additionally, it provides essential vitamins A and C, which support immune function and skin health. However, individuals sensitive to spicy foods or those with gastrointestinal issues should exercise caution, as Rocoto may cause stomach irritation or exacerbate acid reflux symptoms.
| AREAS – MASL | RICH IN |
| 1,500 TO 3,000 MASL -ANCASH – AREQUIPA – AYACUCHO – CUSCO – HUÁNUCO – JUNÍN – MOQUEGUA – PUNO | – Capsaicin (anti-inflammatory) – Vitamin A – Vitamin C |
| BENEFITS | CONTRAINDICATIONS |
| Rocoto is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to help manage hypertension. | Rocoto can cause stomach irritation or worsen acid reflux in individuals who are sensitive to spicy foods or who suffer from gastrointestinal issues. |
RECIPE – Rocoto and Avocado Salad
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the avocado and finely chop the rocoto pepper, removing seeds for less heat if desired. Thinly slice the red onion and chop the cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the Salad: In a mixing bowl, combine the avocado, rocoto, red onion, and cilantro.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish, or let it chill for 10 minutes in the fridge for the flavors to meld.
- Leveraging capsaicin’s anti-inflammatory properties and getting a boost of vitamins A and C, this recipe is designed to balance the spiciness of rocoto with soothing ingredients like avocado.
- This Rocoto and Avocado Salad is rich in anti-inflammatory capsaicin, while the avocado provides healthy fats to help balance the heat of the rocoto. The vitamins A and C in rocoto and lime juice boost immune function and help support skin health, while olive oil provides additional anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s a flavorful way to benefit from the health properties of rocoto without overwhelming the palate!