Dreaming of El Pan del la Chola... by Cheyenne Rogers

I’ve been thinking about Peru food a lot lately. It actually feels more like the idea of Peru and its food has been standing out to more and more as we get closer to our trip. I looked in my fridge earlier and an artichoke jar had “made in Peru” on the label which I found entertaining.

Also, last night at dinner I had some awesome bread from an Italian restaurant and it got me thinking where the best bread in the world is made (I intend for my future travels to be dictated by food more than sights or tourist attractions). One of the best bread places listed in an article I found was Lima, Peru. What a coinkidink as we are landing in Lima! The Bakery is called El Pan de la Chola which means the Bread of the Chola (chola can mean various things, but I have always known it be somewhat of a female gangster). The name alone is enough to peak my interest and make me want to visit. Putting this out there in hopes that our traveling group by happy chance runs across this bakery during our travels.

Anyways, food is something I look forward to more than anything on this trip because I have yet to try food from a Peruvian restaurant. I am a little worried that I will try authentic Peruvian food and be forever haunted by the delicious meal that no Peruvian restaurant in the states will be able to satisfy my cravings.

Just kidding. I am a lot worried by this.

A popular dish I must try is Aji de Gallina, which I think is a stew like chicken dish? From my understanding it is the spices and chilis that really make this dish what it is.

Next up is the Peruvian ceviche. As an avid eater and bit of a ceviche snob I am very nervous/excited for this dish. In my region of Mexico it is made with shrimp, limes, red onions, serrano chiles, and cucumber. The shrimp is cooked by the limes acid and salt is added after. Add a couple more serrano chilies and you get aguachilies. Anyways, everytime I try other variations of ceviche from other regions of mexico or other countries its really hit or miss for me. The simplicity of my ceviche is what I love and some ceviches are to overpowering with all their ingredients. From looking at Peruvian ceviche it reminds me a little like Poki. It uses fresh fish, red onions, and potatoes….WHAT! That in my opinion will not mesh, but we shall see!

Peruvian food I am coming for you!!!





#TravelingFoodie



UPDATE: We went to El Pan de La Chola!