Five Bizarre Foods in Peru
Five Bizarre Foods in Peru will give the adventurous traveler a few ideas to explore during their next wellness vacation to Peru. Getting passed the mundane and into the unusual can make a vacation one to remember for a lifetime. In addition to giving you photo opportunities and stories to tell to anyone that will listen for years to come. Once you’ve explored the west side South America, you may want to head east to its neighbor, Brazil for some tasty treats to explore. Unusual foods in Brazil are equally abundant and awaiting your tasting pleasure. While you are visiting Peru, make sure to explore beyond the food and learn some of the cultural norms of the area to expand your horizons.
Known for its mix of ancient cultures and prime location along the breathtaking Andes Mountains, Peru is a traveller’s dream. It is also an up and coming travel destination for its exciting culinary scene, and the recipient of the 2012 award for South America’s leading culinary destination at the World Travel Awards. Aside from the tasty and elegant delicacies that tourists expect when visiting Peru, the country also has a more interesting and strange side to its cuisine. Bizarre foods in Peru are easy to come by; just head to any of the local markets and you will be sure to see some of these strange food specialties.
Octopus Ceviche
Ceviche is raw fish or shellfish that is sliced into small pieces and marinated in fresh lemon, lime and orange juice. The citric marinade cures the fish, making it perfectly safe for consumption. Octopus ceviche is one of Peru’s signature ceviche dishes and is a must try when in Peru.
Tripe Stew
Cau cau is a popular tripe stew that is made with various cow organs, including stomach (tripe). Not for the faint of heart, it is a common dish served in Peruvian homes and is described as a Peruvian comfort food. If it sounds too bizarre for you, try a version with chicken or shrimp instead.
Fried Guinea Pig
Cuy is the name for a guinea pig in Peru, but Peruvians do not tend to keep them as pets. Guinea pig is actually a very traditional Peruvian food that used to be served only on special occasions. You can now find it in many restaurants, from casual and inexpensive local eateries to gourmet fine dining establishments. A food in Peru you would amiss not to try during your visit.
Alpaca Steak
Alpaca is an animal related to the llama and the camel that is widely bred in Peru. Its meat was once considered a poor man’s meal, but is now the shining star in Peru’s new, modern cuisine. High in protein, low in fat, tender and flavourful, it is sure to become more popular as the word spreads. Talk about bizarre foods and Alpaca steak definitely makes the list.
Beef Heart Skewers
Anticucho de corazón is beef heart that is marinated in vinegar, cumin, pepper paste and garlic, and then grilled and served on a stick. A common food on the streets of Peru, you can easily find this delicacy being offered in many Peruvian food markets and street-carts. If you weren’t certain before, these options should give you clarity on the foods in Peru offering you a flair for the bizarre.
It is clear that Peru is a culinary adventure for those willing to experiment and try new things. A culinary adventure may be the wellness vacation you need to renew, revive or rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Exploring new lands, new foods and meeting new people can give you the boost necessary to increase your productivity and remove yourself temporarily from your daily routine. When you return home you will have many stories to share about bizarre foods in Peru you tried and the photos to bring your stories to life. So what are you waiting for? Book your Peru flights now and you can start tasting your way around this foodie mecca. And when you do, make sure to return to Abundant Journeys blog to share your experiences with the rest of us.
Citations:
- 1. cc flickr photo by 26813293@N05
- 2. cc licence flickr photo by underwaterguy
- 3. cc licence photo by lwy
About the Author: Lauren Aloise eats, tweets and writes her way around the world.
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