Huacatay is a herb native to south america from the marigold and tarragon family. Huacatay was introduced to Europe during the Spanish conquests. It is often used as a companion plant in gardening because its roots produce a compound which keeps slugs, pests and weeds at bay. Huacatay leaves and oil are used to flavour food, tobacco, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks, including cola. Huacatay goes by many names throughout the world: Mexican marigold, black mint, Aymara wacataya (Peruvian Quechua), Tagetes minuta, Peruvian black mint, and so on... [More]

The history of pepper is essentially a story of the history of the European spice trade. So revered it is sometimes called the ‘King of Spices’. In origin, Black pepper is a tropical 'twining plant' from southern India. In the ancient world, the most important source of black pepper was India's Malabar Coast, the southwest coast of the country predominated by modern day Goa. These days black pepper is grown throughout all of South-East Asia. Though black pepper is a staple around the world, it was once so valuable it was used as currency. [More]

Aji is the Peruvian Hot Pepper and is usually the one constant in all good Pollo a la Brasa recipes. Aji is simply the peruvian word for chili so you can imagine this is a pretty broad category. Any pepper or pepper derivative claiming to be 'Aji' is undoubtedly grown in Peru. Flavors range broadly from fruity to pungent. Also, when the Aji was harvested also greatly affects flavor. [More]

"Wood!" you say..."that's not an ingredient!" You bet your sweet ass it is. When it comes to Pollo Perfection, even the wood matters. Although Pollo a la Brasa is never ment to be "smoked", a hot burning hard wood is essential for Pollo on the Grill.

Eucalyptus is a fast growing, aromatic, hardwood. In other words, it is sustainable and therefore generally grown to be harvested. So if you buy your wood from a reputable supplier, chances are fairly good that you alone are not responsible for the deforrestation of the Amazon. If in doubt, ask your supplier. They are generally familiar with their own source suppliers and should be happy to tout the sustainability and value of Eucalyptus. [More]