Potatoes to Pisco Sours- A gastronomical experience of Peruvian cuisine

“You have to taste a culture to understand it” –

 Deborah Cater

One of the greatest perks of travelling is the opportunity taste different cuisines and there is no better way to understand a country than through their food. Peruvian cuisine is very unique and considered to be one of best gastronomical experiences. Known as the Creole food due to the multi-cultural influences including Spanish, Chinese, Italian, African and of course Incan culture, Peruvian cooking incorporates various cooking techniques and ingredients from various parts of the world creating a colorful tapestry of flavors and taste. No matter which part of Peru you are, you can try unique cuisine from that area. The touristy places like Olly, Machu Picchu, Cusco, and Lima have restaurants that offer potatoes (Incan cuisine) to stir fry (Chinese influence) to Ceviche that is almost synonymous with Peru.

Potatoes are now universal but originated in Peru and spread around the world when Spaniards brought it to rest of the world. Peru is supposed to have around 3000 variety of potatoes and when we were there, we ordered Potatoes with every one of our meals with Pisco Sour. It became an on-going joke with the kids that I would order Potatoes and Pisco Sours in every restaurant, and I did.

Pisco Sour: Pisco sour is the national drink of Peru and it is made with a grape brandy (Pisco), lime juice, egg whites and bitters. Like all other dishes of Peru, this drink has a complex flavor with sour, sweet and bitter notes. I prefer Chilian version of pisco sours over the Peruvian version, but you should at least try it to see what the fuss is all about.

Ceviche : You can’t miss the national dish of Peru- Ceviche which is made with raw fish/shrimp or squid infused with lemon juice and served with local spices and hot Peruvian Chile, Plantain chips. As vegetarians, we didn’t try the traditional Ceviche but were able to try vegan version with Mushrooms at the Green Point Restautant in Cusco. This restaurant is so good that you will forget you are earing vegan food and mushroom Ceviche with toasted corn and sweet potato definitely hits the spot.

Arroz chaufa : This dish is made with either white or brown rice, vegetables and meat which are stir fried together is a good representation of Chifa cuisine a blend of Chinese-Peruvian hybrid cuisine. Chifa cuisine is an example of cross cultural influences of Peruvian cuisine through Asian immigration in 19th century.

Chica Morada : Chicha morada is a traditional Peruvian purple corn drink that is not only beautiful to look at but really tasty. You can find it in every restaurant as well as a street food. San Pedro Market in Cusco is a good place to try this drink.

Cuy: No Peruvian cuisine scene is complete without mentioning Cuy- the fried Guinea pig. I prefer Guinea pigs as pets but in Peru, it is considered as a delicacy and if you are the adventurous type and want to try it, you try it pretty much in every place including food stall in San Pedro market.

I would highly recommend a food tour if you are in Lima and want to try some of the bold, tasty, and unique, multi-cultural cuisines of Peru. You can find multiple options here . Bon Appetite and happy travels!!!