"Discovering the Heart and Soul of Lima, Perú, : A Gastronomic Journey"

Welcome back to my blog! In this post, I want to dig a little deeper into what it truly means to cook with love. Recently, while I was driving on the highway, I noticed a car that passed by me with a bumper sticker that read, “cocinar es amor.” In English, it translates to “cooking is love,” and almost immediately, it provoked fond memories of shared meals with family or friends. I could vividly recall my grandmother cooking pigeon peas and rice, potato salad, cornbread, and whatever meat choice she decided on. That meat choice could vary depending on the amount of people she was cooking for or the guest themselves. I remembered that although she may not have had plenty of money, she enjoyed cooking for others, and that was one way she demonstrated her love. Fast forward to the present day, and I have a very close friend that expresses herself in this same way. She goes all out on meal prep and uses the freshest ingredients, and everyone leaves the table satisfied. This is all I’m going to say about said friend because I may have to bubble wrap her and preserve her at all costs. LMBO.

Food is not just sustenance; it’s a reflection of traditions, values, history, and the very essence of a community. The way people prepare, share, and enjoy their meals often reveals intricate details about their way of life, their beliefs, and their identity. Food not only tells a story about a people, language, history, or region—it discloses the soul. Deborah Cater, travel writer and blogger, passionately declares that, “You have to taste a culture to understand it.” So, let’s start this foodie journey together; don’t forget to bring your tastebuds and an open mind.

**FOOD ALERT!! Throughout this post, I’m going to plaster travel food pics from Lima, Perú, so if you are HUNGRY, save this and come back after you have eaten!! HAHA!!**

Lima has earned its reputation as a prominent player in the global gastronomic arena. The city's culinary scene has gained international recognition for the diverse flavors, innovative techniques, and exceptional quality of its cuisine. Lima is known for its abundant seafood, fusion of traditional and modern cooking methods, and its ability to showcase the rich biodiversity of ingredients that Peru offers. As an added note of interest, it is worth mentioning that Le Cordon Bleu has established a campus in this city to educate aspiring chefs.

From renowned restaurants to street food stalls, Lima's culinary landscape offers a wide range of experiences that cater to both locals and visitors. Its chefs have not only embraced traditional Peruvian flavors but have also pushed the boundaries of creativity, earning the city a place among the world's culinary elites. While out and about in the city, you will also notice a large Asian influence infused in some of the cooking techniques and dishes.

**Below is a photo of a dish called Chaufa (Peruvian fried rice) served at Siete Sopas. And no, not all those beverages were mine. LOL**

Travel Tip #1 Avoid Restaurants that Are Located Near Tourist Areas

Restaurants located near major tour attractions often cater to a broad palate, and more times than not, they dilute the local flavors and traditions. I want to experience every sweet, spicy, and mouthwatering experience that each travel destination offers. If you don’t see a local eating there, that may be a good indication of that restaurant’s authenticity. Engaging locals and asking them about the places that they like to eat will save you money and give you the opportunity to taste genuine flavors and gain a personal insight into their culture. Cesar Chavez said, “The people who give you their food give you their heart.”

Prior to my trip to Lima in 2020 I did a little research on TripAdvisor, scouting out the local restaurants, dives, and holes-in-the-walls. You know those “hole-in-the-wall” spots. They are those off-the-beaten-path, hidden gems where the locals go, and you wouldn’t know that they existed unless someone told you. Don’t they ALWAYS have the best food? YES, and YUP.

My TripAdvisor hunt pointed me to a small establishment named “Al Toke Pez.” But let me tell you, there was nothing “small” about this place. BABY. NOTHING. The seating was limited and we had a short wait, but who cares when the food was that great. In the words of the younger generation, the food was “fooding.” LOL! The locals greatly outnumbered the tourists, so I was super excited about that. I decided to order the combination plate (ceviche, seafood rice, and fried calamari), which is easily shareable. The seafood was so fresh, I could’ve sworn I was eating beachside. And let’s not even get started on the amazing flavor combinations. WHEW!!

Sidebar: Al Toke Pez is featured in a series on Netflix called, “Street Food: Latin America” (episode 4)

Travel Tip #2 Resist the Temptation of the Persuasive Outsider

If someone is following you and urging you to patronize their establishment, this seems odd, so use your best judgment. Trust your instincts and choose places you discover on your own or that come highly recommended. Your dining experience should be based on your preferences, not on high-pressure tactics. Even the places that have decent ratings don’t employ these types of tricks. It’s okay to politely decline and move on. As I said before, “BE UNBOTHERED” and make choices that suit your personal preferences.

Travel Tip #3 Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone and Try New Foods

As previously mentioned in reference to Al Toke Pez, I discussed the freshness of the seafood, and it inspired me to try something new—ceviche. Truth be told, that was actually my first-time eating it. For many years, I was apprehensive of this dish because the fish used in making the ceviche isn’t technically cooked. It is marinated in citrus juices and other seasonings before being refrigerated. I know it may come as a shock to you, but I found it amusing how my hesitation quickly disappeared after the first bite. I realized that trying unfamiliar dishes bridges cultural gaps and provides you with a deeper understanding of the local way of life. Some of my most cherished travel memories revolve around sharing unique food experiences with someone. So don’t be afraid to try unfamiliar foods while traveling; however, keep in mind your personal dietary restrictions and allergies when choosing different foods. **The photo immediately below is not from Al Toke Pez, however it is ceviche**

In conclusion, food is the portal to understanding different cultures and traditions. It can provide you with a deeper connection to the places you visit. If you want to have your palate challenged and taken to another level, I highly recommend visiting Lima Perú,. There are so many options to choose from, and honestly, I don’t recall eating anything that was just “ok.” Located on the Pacific coast, the city has access to a diverse range of fish and shellfish. From ceviche to picarones, from pisco sours to causa, Peruvian cuisine offers a plethora of dishes that can truly excite the taste buds.