National Dish Paraguay: Bori Bori de Pollo (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Bori Bori de Pollo, one of Paraguay’s most comforting classics! This nourishing chicken soup is studded with tender cornmeal dumplings that give it a wonderfully hearty texture and a homely, satisfying flavour. Whether you serve it at a festive gathering or as a warming family supper, this dish carries a deep connection to Paraguayan culture in every spoonful. Bring a taste of South American tradition straight to your own kitchen.
About Bori Bori de Pollo
Bori Bori de Pollo is a traditional dish from Paraguay that has won hearts far beyond its borders. This distinctive chicken soup is enriched with cornmeal dumplings, which lend the dish its characteristic body and comforting flavour. It is a meal that is not only filling but also represents a deep bond with Paraguayan culture. Whether at festive occasions or in the everyday home kitchen, bori bori is always a culinary highlight.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 500 g chicken breast
- 1 litre water
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 150 g cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, to garnish
Shopping for the ingredients
Gathering the ingredients for bori bori de pollo is refreshingly simple. Many of the items you need are available in any well-stocked supermarket. In particular, cornmeal and fresh vegetables can also be found at local markets, where the quality is often higher. When buying the chicken, look for fresh produce to guarantee the best possible flavour in your soup.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, all the ingredients should be prepared. That means the chicken is cut into pieces and the vegetables are washed and chopped. This groundwork is crucial for making the cooking process easier and ensuring the flavours come through at their best. A well-organised kitchen is the first step towards a delicious result.
Step-by-step instructions
- Bring the water to the boil in a large pot and add the chicken.
- Add the chopped onion, diced potatoes and carrots.
- Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- In a separate bowl, mix the cornmeal with a little water to form a dough.
- With wet hands, shape small dumplings and drop them into the boiling soup.
- Cook for a further 10 minutes, until the dumplings are done.
- Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh parsley.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Bori bori de pollo can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free cornmeal. The traditional ingredients are also naturally lactose-free, so no further adjustments are needed to create a lactose-free version. You can additionally make sure that all the other ingredients used, such as the chicken breast, are likewise free from gluten and lactose. That way the dish remains suitable for every dietary need.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For a vegan or vegetarian version of bori bori de pollo, you can simply replace the chicken with vegetable stock and extra vegetables. Use tofu or seitan as a protein source and adjust the cooking time accordingly. These changes preserve the delicious flavour of the original while catering to a plant-based lifestyle. Be creative and try different vegetables to discover new flavour combinations, much as you would in a bowl of Vori Vori de Verduras.
More tips and tricks
To refine your bori bori, you can add various seasonings such as garlic or paprika. These bring extra layers of flavour to the dish and make it even more aromatic. Another option is to vary the vegetables according to the season and what is available. Do not be shy about experimenting with the flavours and textures to develop your own favourite version of the recipe.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The beauty of bori bori de pollo lies in its adaptability. If, for instance, you prefer a slightly spicy flavour, you can add a touch of chilli or hot pepper paste. The dumplings can also be varied in size and consistency to suit your personal taste. Whether larger or smaller, the main thing is that they are well seasoned and pair perfectly with the soup.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have potatoes to hand, they can be swapped for parsnips or pumpkin, which also lend a creamy texture. If you want to make the dish even more nourishing, add green beans or peas — the same hearty additions that work well in a Guiso de Gallina. You can also give your imagination free rein with the seasonings and try new herbs such as thyme or oregano to work your own note into the recipe.
Drink pairing ideas
A hearty dish like bori bori de pollo is best paired with light, refreshing drinks. A glass of cold, homemade lemonade or a crisp white wine harmonises beautifully with the flavour of the soup. Non-alcoholic alternatives such as sparkling water with lemon can also offer a welcome refreshment. Experiment with different drinks to find the perfect companion.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation can considerably enhance the enjoyment of your dish. Serve the bori bori de pollo in attractive bowls and garnish it generously with fresh parsley. A few crisp croutons or a generous squeeze of lemon can lift the dish and bring out the colours. A well-laid table turns the meal into a special occasion.
A bit of history
The roots of bori bori de pollo lie in Paraguayan culture and reflect a close connection to nature and regional produce. The dish has evolved over generations and today is a firm part of the traditional kitchen. It is often served at festive occasions and symbolises hospitality and togetherness. This cultural significance makes bori bori de pollo not merely a dish but also an experience of Paraguayan identity, one of the treasures of Paraguayan cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Bori Bori de Pollo
Bori bori de pollo is a versatile and flavourful dish that is easy to prepare and perfectly suited to sociable occasions. With its combination of chicken and cornmeal dumplings, it offers an unmistakable taste experience. The adaptability of the recipe lets you tailor it to your own personal preferences. Let the Paraguayan kitchen inspire you and enjoy this delicious soup to the full.
