During my week-long stay in the Peruvian capital, Cusco, I not only indulged in street snacks at the market every day but also overcame psychological barriers to try two local dishes: Alpaca and Cuy.
◦ Alpaca
In Peru, alpacas are not only left in tourist spots for photo opportunities, but they are also valued for their warm wool, which is often regarded as one of the finest materials worldwide. Even the meat of alpacas, which has a taste that falls somewhere between beef and lamb, is considered a delicacy. While alpacas may be ideal pets for us, they are seen as the "walking gold" by the people of Peru.
Before entering the restaurant, I tried to erase the image of the adorable pets from my mind. The chef's skills were commendable, as the alpaca meat had almost no gaminess. However, due to minimal fat, some parts even a bit dry. Therefore, the sauce played a crucial role. If given another chance, I think choosing a medium-rare option would be a better choice.
◦ Cuy
In the tribes of the Andes, the guinea pig (cuy) is an ideal source of meat and has become an indispensable dish during festivities. Upon arriving in Peru, I decided to fully immerse myself in the local culture and started to change my perspective on guinea pigs as food.
After mentally preparing myself, I ordered a half-roasted guinea pig at the restaurant and asked the chef to remove the head. The crispy and fragrant skin provided a texture similar to that of roasted suckling pig. Marinated in spices and herbs, the meat was tender, juicy, and surpassed my expectations in terms of deliciousness!
Peru, undoubtedly, is a culinary paradise!