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Fusions in Peru

Susan Gilman is a Food Mafia Godfather who recently visited Lima, Peru. Below is an overview of her trip and links to all of her Peruvian reviews. Check out more from Susan’s blog, Food Euphoria.

My kids and I just got back from Peru where we were part a small group arranged and hosted by Liz Caskey of Liz Caskey Culinary & Wine Experiences. We loved Peru. The people are very friendly, the cuisine is world class and this country should be on everyone's bucket list.

Peru has a rich culture and history that includes the influences of several nationalities and regions. The food in Peru is considered to be some of the best cuisine in the world and arguably the best in South America with a mix of immigrant and indigenous influence including Japanese, Italian, French, African, Basque, British, Chinese and Andean. The Japanese influence created fusion cuisine known as Nikkei, a combination of sushi and ceviches. The celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa who opened his first restaurant in Peru is well known for his unique improvisation incorporating South American and Japanese ingredients. Dining in Peru is a major highlight when visiting this beautiful country.

Depending on the region you are in, one can find traditional dishes as well dishes that incorporate the influences of the country's immigrants. There is the traditional ceviche (raw fish marinated in lemon juice, pachamanca (meat and vegetables cooked in the ground with hot stones), soups, stews, meats, corn dishes, guinea pig, poultry, seafood and the use of aji chili peppers as well as a wide variety of fruits, tubulars and vegetables. Wines of Peru are becoming more popular as more wines are exported, but Pisco is abundant and everyone makes Pisco Sours differently depending on where you are or who your bartender or mixologist is. The culinary possibilities are endless and Peru is fast becoming a major culinary destination. It is no longer a well-kept secret!

We stayed at the Miraflores Park Hotel in Lima. Beautiful hotel located in the upscale Miraflores district on the Pacific Ocean, near great restaurants and a large outdoor mall and park. It never rains in Lima. The morning mist provides moisture for foliage and lifts so there is some afternoon sun. I have added Lima to my list of cities I could happily live in.