We really don't like the word "Blog" but we have to admit that the Editors Corner is the LimaEasy Blog. Things change, new content gets published, an article doesn't seem to fit into any of our categories or we as the editors of LimaEasy would like to air our opinions (and you are welcome to comment on them) - This is the place you'll find all that...
South America's biggest gastronomic fair, Mistura, kicks off in less than 2 months here in Lima expecting half a million visitors. Under this year's motto "Diversity and Nutrition" Mistura brings together small farmers, producers, food sellers, chefs, bakers, confectioners, restaurants, food enthusiasts, Limeños and visitors from all over the world for the country's biggest gastronomic folk festival. Next to 10 days full of Peruvian flavors and colors visitors can also expect having a good time with cultural performances such as typical Peruvian dances and live music, exhibitions, workshops and much more.
On the 30th of May is National Potato Day; a time to celebrate one of the most important food crops in the world originating in Peru.
Throughout this week countless restaurants around Lima pay homage to the famous root vegetable by offering special menus and drinks using the great variety of native Peruvian potatoes.
Over the last months there have been many don't drink & drive campaigns in Lima due to an increment of traffic accidents. Many districts in the city have been actively engaged and surprised with some well thought out approaches.
The Chilcano (or also known as Chilanito) is a traditional Peruvian cocktail based on Pisco (grape brandy). The Chilcano has lately become very popular and can be found in nearly every bar and restaurant in the country. References mentioning the drink date back to the early twentieth century. In Peru every year the Chilcano is celebrated with a week dedicated to the cocktail where variations with different fruit juices or soft drinks are presented.
Once again Lima's traditional wine district Surco is celebrating its culture and customs with the Festival Vendimia de Surco 2014.
This year's festival starts already on the 16th of March, the Sunday before the main festivities with the Grand Parade of the Grape Harvest (Gran Corso de la Vendimia) introducing the wine queen candidates to the public; expect colorful decorated floats, traditional Peruvian costumes and folkloric dance performances.
On 1st of February 2014 is National Pisco Sour Day
As every year on the first Saturday in February, Peru celebrates on the 1st of February 2014 its most popular cocktail with the "Dia Nacional del Pisco Sour" (National Pisco Sour Day). Even though the Pisco Sour will be honored throughout the country, celebrations will be most energetic in Lima and the Pisco producing regions in the south of Peru.
The mayor for metropolitan Lima, Susana Villarán, was actually known for wanting to „clean up" the city, fight corruption and trying to solve Lima's chaotic traffic situation. Seems she got on the wrong side of some people. After a months-long smear campaign for alleged inefficiency and corruption Susana Villarán had to face a recall referendum in March 2013. While she survived the attempt to drive her out of office, 22 of the 40 city council members, including the deputy mayor weren't so lucky.
The EU finally decided: Pisco has its Origins in Peru
After an age-old dispute between Chile and Peru about the origin of Pisco the European Union has finally decided: the geographical origin of the fruit brandy produced by the fermentation of grapes and following distillation is the city of Pisco around 250 km south of Lima and thus Peru the birthplace of the alcoholic beverage produced and popular in both countries.
As most of our frequent visitors know we have an absolute dedication to Peruvian food and try to share our passion by frequently publishing new temptations with home tested recipes.
There are some great pages out there promoting the Peruvian Cuisine but sometimes the recipes focus more on the "Cuisine" part then on what in reality the Peruvian kitchen stands for: Great ingredients combined in a delicious way and mostly easily prepared.
One of the most popular cocktails in Peru is the Pisco Sour. It is based on the Pisco (kind of brandy) and the first creation originated in Lima in the early 1920s. There are many stories who created it first and even international discussions (between Peru and Chile), but nevertheless it is a must for every Peru visitor.
