Anticuchos de Corazon is one of Peru's most beloved street foods - grilled beef heart skewers that have been marinated in a flavorful paste of aji panca (Peruvian red pepper), garlic, vinegar, and spices. While the idea of eating heart might seem unusual to some, this dish transforms what was historically a humble cut of meat into something truly extraordinary.

The origins of anticuchos can be traced back to the 16th century during Peru's colonial period. African slaves, who were given less desirable cuts of meat like beef heart, created this dish by developing special marinades and grilling techniques to make the meat tender and delicious. Today, it's celebrated as an important part of Peru's African-influenced cultural heritage.

The secret to perfect anticuchos lies in the preparation. The beef heart is first cleaned and cut into uniform cubes, then marinated for several hours or overnight in a paste made from aji panca, garlic, cumin, vinegar, and other spices. The meat is then threaded onto skewers and grilled over high heat until charred on the outside but still tender and juicy inside.

While beef heart is traditional, some modern variations use regular beef, chicken, or even fish. The marinade can also be adjusted to be more or less spicy by varying the amount of aji panca. Some cooks add oregano or beer to their marinades for additional flavor complexity.

In Peru, anticuchos are typically served hot off the grill from street carts or at anticucheras (specialized anticucho restaurants). They're commonly accompanied by boiled potatoes or corn, and a spicy sauce called aji. The dish is particularly popular as a late-night snack and during festivals and celebrations.

From a nutritional standpoint, beef heart is incredibly nutrient-dense, being high in protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12. It's also relatively lean compared to other cuts of beef. However, those with high cholesterol should consume in moderation. The dish is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for many dietary restrictions.