Pique macho facts for kids
Pique macho (pronounced pee-kay mah-cho) is a very popular and tasty dish from Bolivia. It's a big plate piled high with delicious food. Imagine a mix of small pieces of tender beef and crispy french fries. On top of this, you'll find fresh onions, sliced boiled eggs, and sometimes spicy peppers called locotos. It's often served with mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup.
A smaller version of this dish is simply called pique. But pique macho is known for being a huge serving. It's also traditionally quite spicy, often because of a special chili powder called pimentón.
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Why is it called Pique Macho?
There are a couple of fun stories about how this dish got its name.
The "Macho" Challenge
One popular story says that the name "pique macho" comes from a challenge. If you can eat a whole plate by yourself, you are considered "macho," which means strong or brave. However, most people usually share this giant meal with friends or family!
The Hungry Workers' Tale
Another interesting legend tells of a group of hungry workers late one night. They went to a restaurant, but the owner said she was closing and had no food left. The workers were very hungry and insisted they would eat anything she had. So, the owner chopped up all the leftover ingredients she had for pique macho. She made it extra spicy! As she served it, she challenged them, saying, "Piquen si son machos!" This means, "Eat it if you're man enough!" And that's how the name "Pique Macho" supposedly came to be.
The Real Creators
The "Pique Macho" or "Pique a lo Macho" was actually created by Mr. Honorato Quinones and his wife, Evangelina Gomez Quinones. They owned a restaurant called "Restaurante Miraflores" in the city of Cochabamba, Bolivia.
What's in Pique Macho?
Pique macho is made with simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a wonderful flavor.
Main Ingredients
- Beef: Thin slices of steak are usually cooked until tender.
- French Fries: Crispy, golden french fries are a key part of the dish.
- Onions: Sliced onions add a fresh, sharp taste.
- Boiled Eggs: Sliced boiled eggs are often placed on top.
- Peppers: Green and red peppers are common. Sometimes, spicier locoto peppers are used for an extra kick.
- Tomatoes: Fresh tomato slices add a juicy, tangy flavor.
- Olives: A few olives are often added for a salty touch.
Optional Additions
- Locoto (Chili): For those who love spicy food, extra locoto chilies can be added.
- Sausage: Some versions include slices of sausage or hot dogs.
Pique macho is a fantastic dish to try if you ever visit Bolivia!
See also
In Spanish: Pique macho para niños
