Uchu Jacu facts for kids
Uchu Jacu (say "OO-choo HAH-koo") is a special kind of flour. Its name means "hot flour" in the Quichua language. This traditional flour comes from the Cayambe area in northern Ecuador. It is made from six different grains. For a while, people almost forgot how to make it. But now, an organization called UNOPAC is making it again. Even though not many people know about Uchu Jacu, it is very popular with local communities.
How Uchu Jacu Is Made
Making Uchu Jacu is a careful process. It uses six main ingredients:
- Wheat
- Barley
- Corn
- Peas
- Lentils
- Field beans
First, workers sort the grains by hand. This makes sure they are very clean. Then, they toast the grains. After toasting, they add special spices. These spices are garlic, annatto (a reddish spice), and cumin. Finally, this mix of grains and spices is ground into a fine flour. The flour is sieved one more time. Then, it is ready to be packed.
How to Use Uchu Jacu
Traditionally, Uchu Jacu is used to make a very healthy soup. This soup is full of nutrients. The full traditional recipe includes:
- Potatoes
- Onions
- Hominy (dried corn kernels)
- Eggs
- Cream cheese
- Guinea pig
You can change this recipe if you like. Uchu Jacu soup looks a lot like potato soup. It also has a similar thick texture. But it has its own unique and delicious flavor.
See also
In Spanish: Uchu Jacu para niños
