Peru Package: Culinary Tour of Peru

Relatively unknown only a few years ago, Peruvian gastronomy has since been recognized as one of the most refined and exquisite cuisines in the world. Travelers to Peru cannot miss out on some of the hundreds of dishes which comprise Peruvian food. There are many specialties, some more common than other: from to roast goat to guinea pig, don't be afraid to try and you will without a doubt be surprised. Learn about this country's marvelous culinary traditions, and don't worry about the pound or two you will gain; it's worth it!

Gastronomes will revel in the myriad excellent dishes available throughout the country. If you want to learn more about Peruvian cuisine, and eat as much as you can before you have to go home to your hamburgers and chips, why not take a culinary tour around the country? Each major regions of Peru boasts its own specialties.

In the North, favorites include pato a la naranja en almibar (honey-glazed duck in orange sauce) and cabrito al horno (roast goat). The Arequipeña cuisine is celebrated in the entire country, with specialties such as ocopa arequipeña (boiled potato slices in a slightly spicy cheese sauce), and rocoto relleno (stuffed bell peppers).Mountain cities such as Ayacucho and Huancayo are renowned for their hearty stews and creative dishes made from animal organs. Cuy (guinea pig) is largely confined to the Andes. Don't forget to try Chifa, a fusion cuisine combining Peruvian and Chinese influences.

Once you try this excellent cuisine, you will want more. Make sure to bring back some cooking books, and try to master the rocoto relleno or the lomo saltado receipes at home. The best way to do that would be to take some cooking lessons with true Peruvian chefs that will show you the unique techniques they use to create these amazing dishes and ravish your taste buds. Even if you don't have much time in Peru, you will not regretting taking the time to learn how to cook some of the best meals you will ever have. And this is probably one of the greatest ways to gain insight into the fascinating Peruvian culture. The ways of the stomach always tell what people's way of life really is like.