Ajiaco is a beloved Colombian soup that perfectly represents the country's diverse culinary heritage. This hearty and comforting dish is particularly associated with the Bogotá region, where the cool mountain climate makes it an especially welcome meal. At its core, Ajiaco is a unique combination of three different types of potatoes, tender chicken, and corn on the cob, all flavored with the distinctive guascas herb that gives the soup its characteristic taste.

The use of three different potato varieties is what makes Ajiaco truly special. Papa criolla, a small yellow potato that dissolves and thickens the soup, is combined with two other local potato varieties that maintain their shape. This combination creates a rich, naturally creamy texture that's further enhanced by a dollop of heavy cream added just before serving.

Making Ajiaco is a labor of love that begins with simmering chicken until tender, creating a flavorful broth that becomes the soup's base. The three types of potatoes are added at different times to ensure proper cooking, while corn on the cob adds sweetness and texture. The crucial ingredient, guascas, is an herb unique to Colombian cuisine that gives Ajiaco its distinctive flavor - there's really no substitute for it.

In Colombia, Ajiaco is traditionally served in a clay pot and garnished with heavy cream, capers, and sliced avocado. These garnishes aren't mere decorations - they're integral to the dish, with each diner adding them to taste. The cream adds richness, the capers provide a salty tang, and the avocado contributes a creamy texture that complements the soup perfectly.

From a nutritional perspective, Ajiaco is a well-balanced meal. The chicken provides lean protein, potatoes offer complex carbohydrates, and the corn and avocado add healthy fats and additional nutrients. While it's not a low-calorie dish, especially with the cream, it's nutrient-dense and satisfying. Those watching their sodium intake should be mindful of the capers, which can be reduced or omitted. The soup is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.