CNN Tries Chiclayo's Pope-Approved Dish: Is It Worth The Hype?

Michael

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Post on May 13, 2025

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CNN Tries Chiclayo's Pope-Approved Dish: Is It Worth the Hype?

Chiclayo, Peru, a city brimming with history and vibrant culture, recently found itself in the global spotlight thanks to a rather unexpected guest: Pope Francis. But it wasn't just the papal visit that captivated international attention; it was the humble, yet apparently divine, dish he sampled – seco de cabrito. Now, CNN has weighed in, sparking a renewed curiosity: is this Pope-approved Peruvian delicacy truly worth the hype?

The recent CNN report featured a journalist’s experience savoring seco de cabrito in Chiclayo, offering a glimpse into this traditional dish and its unexpected rise to international fame. The segment highlighted the dish's unique flavors and the culinary traditions surrounding its preparation. But did the global news giant find it as delicious as the pontiff? Let's delve into the details.

What is Seco de Cabrito?

Seco de cabrito, meaning "dry kid goat" in Spanish, is a hearty stew originating from the Lambayeque region of northern Peru. This flavorful dish is a cornerstone of Peruvian cuisine, particularly popular in Chiclayo. Its rich, complex flavors are derived from a combination of goat meat, aji panca (a type of Peruvian chili pepper), beer or chicha (a fermented corn beverage), and an array of aromatic herbs and spices.

The preparation is a labor of love, often involving slow cooking to tenderize the goat meat and allow the flavors to meld perfectly. This process results in a succulent, deeply flavorful stew, often served with rice and potatoes. The specific recipe varies from family to family, adding to the dish's unique charm.

CNN's Verdict: A Papal Approval Seal of Quality?

CNN's review, while positive, wasn't an unqualified rave. The journalist highlighted the richness and depth of flavor, praising the tender goat meat and the well-balanced blend of spices. However, the report also acknowledged that the strong flavors might not appeal to all palates. The strong taste of aji panca is a defining characteristic, and those unaccustomed to spicy food might find it overpowering.

Ultimately, CNN’s report suggests that seco de cabrito's appeal is subjective. While the Pope clearly enjoyed it, and CNN found many positive aspects, it's not a dish that will universally please everyone.

Beyond the Hype: Exploring Chiclayo's Culinary Scene

The Pope's endorsement propelled seco de cabrito to international attention, but Chiclayo's culinary scene boasts far more than just this one dish. The region is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, influenced by its rich history and geographical location. From fresh seafood dishes to other traditional stews and unique desserts, Chiclayo offers a culinary adventure for every taste.

Other Chiclayo delicacies to explore include:

• Arroz con pato: A flavorful rice dish with duck.
• Ceviche: Peru's world-famous seafood dish.
• Picarones: Sweet potato and pumpkin fritters.

Is it worth the trip?

If you're a food adventurer with a penchant for bold flavors, a trip to Chiclayo to try seco de cabrito (and the rest of the region’s delicious food!) is highly recommended. The rich cultural experience paired with the unique culinary offerings makes for an unforgettable journey. However, if you're averse to intensely spicy food, you might want to manage your expectations. Regardless, Chiclayo offers something for everyone beyond this single dish, proving its worth as a culinary destination.

Call to Action: Have you tried seco de cabrito? Share your experience in the comments below! Let us know what you thought of this Pope-approved Peruvian dish.