Peru Food and Drink

By Erin Helland

When the great culinary destinations of the world are discussed, Peru is not likely to be often mentioned. However, in recent years it has begun to be recognized as a place with an extremely diverse and delicious selection of cuisine. The country not only has an expansive variety of traditional fare, but also a unique selection of fusions. This is due to the country's unique geography, its openness to blend races and cultures, and its use of ancient cuisine techniques in modern dishes. Also, you tend to be able to get the most bang for your buck in Peru, with a fancy dinner running at around $20.

In fact, Peru's increasing recognition as a culinary destination has caused the amount of culinary tours available to skyrocket. Most begin in Lima, and go through the country to Cusco, where Machu Picchu is located. They boast to know the absolute best restaurants, some even claiming that the meals are free if they are not as wonderful as you expected. If you have a love of food, these are a great way to explore Peru and experience fine Peruvian cuisine.

There is a great variety of agriculture products in Peru, mostly due to its geographical diversity. This diversity of produce lends to the unique culinary dishes available in the country. Its varying climates make it possible for many different types of fruits and vegetables to be grown.

Peru has seen immigration from countries such as Spain, China, Africa Japan and Italy. The cooking methods and cuisine types from these countries has been mixed with traditional Peruvian methods, which has created very unique and flavorful dishes. The mixtures of cultures in cuisines are especially apparent in areas where people from a certain area settled. For example, on the coast, where many Moorish, African and Chinese people settled, you will find cuisine with these influences. One of the most popular mixed cuisine types in Peru is Chifa, or Chinese food. You will find many Peruvian dishes, such as Loma Saltado, which combine traditional Peruvian food with Chinese. Even the food that is considered to be 'true' Chinese food has definite Peruvian influences.

The most quintessential peruvian coast food is ceviche, although you can find it pretty much anywhere in Peru. Cerviche varies from place to place, but in general it is a type of seafood marinated in spices and citrus juice.

In the Andes the diet of indigenous people remains nearly the same as it has been for hundreds of years. Staples include corn, potatoes, and meats from animals such as alpaca and guinea pigs, or cuy. The idea of eating a furry little animal may seem repulsive to many foreigners, but cuy is a common food that is considered to be a delicacy. When in the area you are sure to walk down a street and see restaurant after restaurant roasting up guinea pig. If you are feeling brave, try one, it definitely will be an experience you will never forget. A pachamanca is a special banquet that is mean to be a celebration. It is made from a variety of meats, herb and vegetables, which are slowly cooked underground on heated stones. It is a rather tedious process, which requires the cook to be very skillful.

Fruits and vegetables make up the basis of a jungle diet. If you make a trip to the jungle, you are sure to encounter many types that are foreign to you. A popular fruit is Camu Camu, which is a small reddish purple fruit that resembles a cherry and has an extremely high vitamin C content.

Those with a sweet tooth will not be disappointed during their visit to Peru. There are many very popular and delicious deserts to choose from. Helados, or ice creams, are one of the most popular. Besides traditional ice cream flavors, such as chocolate and vanilla, you can find exotic flavors made with local fruits. Another common desert choice is Alfajores, which typically is a lemon flavored pastry that has a sweet creamy filling. Turrones, which are similar to fudge, are also very popular. They are most commonly made from almonds, although some are made from honey.

If your time in Peru leaves you a bit homesick, you will be glad to know that many fast food establishments are present in major cities. Kentucky Fried Chicken is in particular popular in Peru. There is even Starbucks in Lima, if you simply must have a Frappuccino.

The most popular drink in Peru is by far the Pisco Sour. It is made with Pisco, which is a type of brandy that is distilled from grapes. The brandy is them mixed with egg white, lemon, sugar syrup and spirits. The wine industry in Peru has recently been gaining more attention. In particular good wines can be found in the Inca region, which is to the west of Lima. Chincha is a popular drink in the Andes. It is made with fermented maize, or corn, and other herbs.

As for non alcoholic drinks, soft drinks are very popular, in particular Inca Kola. Fresh juices are also very prevalent. Just be careful, because they are often prepared with tap water. Most restaurants in touristy areas know to make the juice with purified or boiled water, but a hole in the wall probably won’t.

For many, food is a highlight of a trip. Peru is sure to not disappoint anyone looking for good culinary experiences during their holiday. Come with an open mind, and empty stomach, and experience the unique flavors of this culturally rich country.