BY DANIEL PARIS
In this new world of social distancing and mandated isolation we still have access to great take-out cuisine to transport us to the better times ahead. Pollo Doky provides a ticket to a cultural experience in a box ready to pick up or be delivered by Doordash or Ubereats. Peruvian recipes are a fusion of Spanish, European, Asian and indigenous Incan flavors. The star of the show is the Incan rotisserie chicken marinated in a vinegar, white wine, lime, aji chile, cumin and paprika paste and served with the fragrant, spicy aji verde sauce. This sauce’s base is the Peruvian Aji chile, which has a spicy, fruity aroma . It is blended with cilantro, Serrano chile, olive oil, and lime juice into a smooth complex sauce. Slathered on the moist, flavorful chicken it provides your taste buds with a quick trip to an exotic destination.
Pollo Doky is owned and run by a delightful Peruvian couple who when the ban is lifted will explain the Peruvian dishes in loving detail. In addition to the other-worldly rotisserie chicken they off a an extensive array of Peruvian favorites such as : mahi-mahi ceviche, Lomo Saltido, a combination of strips of grilled filet mignon fries, rice and beans or a choice of many other sides. Marinated red onions accompany most entrees. Be sure to add a can of Inka Cola.
Peru has over one thousand varieties of potatoes of every shape and color. It is also the origin of the high-protein grain Quinoa. Peru has a seafood-rich coastal cuisine and indigenous Incan and Amazonian influences.
I encourage you to work your way through the extensive take-out menu for a welcome change from the ordinary. It is exotic comfort food at a modest price. We need to keep supporting the network of small family-run restaurants to ensure their survival of the present crisis.
Pollo Doky is open for pick-up and delivery from 11am – 6pm Tues. – Sun.
760 832-6878. 68718 E Palm Canyon Dr, Cathedral City, CA 92234.
