Causa Limeña Recipe (Peruvian Layered Potato Dish)
Causa Limeña is a traditional Peruvian cold potato dish made with mashed yellow potatoes seasoned with lime and chili, then layered with creamy fillings like chicken, tuna, or avocado. This authentic causa limeña recipe is refreshing, flavorful, and perfect for warm weather or elegant starters.
Why You’ll Love This Causa Limeña Recipe
- Authentic Peruvian flavors 🇵🇪
- Naturally gluten-free
- No cooking required after boiling potatoes
- Perfect as an appetizer or light main
What Is Causa Limeña?
Causa Limeña is a classic Peruvian potato dish that dates back to pre-Columbian times. It uses ají amarillo chili paste and lime juice to flavor mashed yellow potatoes, which are then layered with savory fillings and served chilled.
Ingredients
Potato Base
- 2 lbs (900 g) yellow potatoes, peeled
- 3 tablespoons ají amarillo paste
- ¼ cup fresh lime juice
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
- Salt to taste
Filling (Classic Chicken)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Layers & Garnish
- 2 ripe avocados, sliced
- Hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- Black olives
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
How to Make Causa Limeña (Step-by-Step)
1. Cook the Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain and mash while hot until smooth. Let cool slightly.
2. Season the Potato Mixture
Mix mashed potatoes with ají amarillo paste, lime juice, oil, and salt. Knead gently until smooth and vibrant yellow.
3. Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper until creamy.
4. Assemble the Causa
Line a mold or ring with plastic wrap. Press a layer of potato mixture, add avocado slices, then chicken filling. Top with another layer of potato. Press gently.
5. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. Unmold, garnish with eggs, olives, and herbs before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve causa limeña as:
- A cold appetizer
- A light lunch
- A party platter dish
Pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or ceviche.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: up to 24 hours
- Best served chilled but not ice-cold
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is causa limeña served hot or cold?
Causa limeña is traditionally served cold, making it perfect for warm climates.
What can I use instead of ají amarillo?
You can substitute with mild chili paste plus a pinch of turmeric for color, but authentic flavor comes from ají amarillo.
Can I make causa limeña vegetarian?
Yes. Use avocado, vegetables, or chickpea salad as the filling.
Is causa limeña gluten-free?
Yes. It is naturally gluten-free.
Popular Causa Limeña Variations
- Tuna Causa – made with canned tuna
- Seafood Causa – shrimp or crab
- Vegetarian Causa – avocado and veggies
- Quinoa Causa – modern healthy twist
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
- Peruvian Chicken (Pollo a la Brasa)
- Peruvian Ceviche
- Papa a la Huancaína
- Brazilian Farofa
- Latin American Potato Dishes

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