Maria's World

One of the most memorable (and expensive!) meals we had in Peru was at Pachapapa Restaurant in Cusco, where we finally tried cuy (guinea pig) - the traditional national dish of the Peruvian Andes.

Guinea pigs have been raised and eaten in the Andes for thousands of years, dating back to the Inca civilization. Originally kept as a reliable source of protein in the harsh mountain environment, cuy remains an important part of Peruvian culture and is often served during celebrations and special occasions.

We decided to try it two ways: roasted and fried. The roasted cuy takes about an hour to prepare, but it was absolutely worth the wait. Both versions were delicious, each with its own unique flavor and texture. If you're wondering what it tastes like, I'd compare it to the darker meat of chicken, rich, flavorful, and surprisingly tender.

If you're visiting Cusco, I definitely recommend adding Pachapapa to your list. The atmosphere is beautiful, the live music creates the perfect setting, the service is fantastic, and the food is unforgettable.

So, be honest... are you an adventurous foodie willing to try something completely out of the ordinary? Let me know in the comments! 👇

Found this really cool vase at an antique shop. 🏺
When I looked inside, I found this note explaining the history behind it.
Apparently, wedding vases were used by many Native American tribes as part of traditional marriage ceremonies. The bride and groom would drink from the same vase at the same time, symbolizing their promise of love, unity, and lifelong happiness.

I love finding little pieces of history hidden in unexpected places.