Tacu Tacu

Tacu Tacu

Tacu Tacu (TAH-koo TAH-koo)

Rice and Bean Cake

Prep Time 15 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
2
🔥 Calories 412 kcal

A crispy pan-fried cake of leftover rice and beans, golden-crusted outside and creamy within, served with a fried egg and salsa criolla.

Nutrition & Info

410 kcal per serving
Protein 15.0g
Carbs 52.0g
Fat 16.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

non-stick skillet spatula mixing bowl

Presentation Guide

Vessel: flat ceramic plate

Garnishes: fried egg, salsa criolla

Accompaniments: fried plantains

Instructions

  1. 1

    Sauté onion and garlic in 1 tbsp oil until softened. Add ají amarillo paste and cook 1 min.

  2. 2

    Add cooked beans, mash roughly with a fork. Fold in cooked rice, mixing well. Season with salt and pepper.

  3. 3

    Heat remaining oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.

  4. 4

    Press the rice-bean mixture into the pan, forming a thick cake. Cook 4-5 min until golden-crusted.

  5. 5

    Flip carefully and cook the other side until crispy, about 4 min.

  6. 6

    Serve topped with a fried egg and salsa criolla.

💡

Did You Know?

Tacu tacu comes from the Quechua word "takuy" meaning to mix — it was born from the genius of Afro-Peruvian cooks turning leftovers into a beloved staple.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • non-stick skillet
  • spatula
  • mixing bowl

Garnishing

fried egg, salsa criolla

Accompaniments

fried plantains

The Story Behind Tacu Tacu

Tacu tacu emerged from Afro-Peruvian communities who transformed leftover rice and beans into a crispy, satisfying dish. It reflects the African diaspora's profound influence on Peruvian cuisine and has evolved from humble origins into a restaurant-worthy classic topped with seafood or steak.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed lunch or brunch 📜 Origins: Afro-Peruvian, colonial era

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