Among the many culinary delights of Peru, deep-fried guinea pig stands out as one of the strangest.
Peruvian cuisine surged into the consciousness of foodies around the world in the past few years. New York, London and other world cities are now home to Peruvian restaurants serving up ceviche (a starter based on raw fish) and anticuchos (marinated cow’s heart), but the famous cuy (guinea pig) has so far not made it on to many menus.
Travelers making their way around Peru will, however, get the chance to try the local delicacy. In fact, guinea pig is such a specialty there are entire restaurants, known as cuyerias, dedicated to it. The dish is a staple part of the rural diet, and has also been transferred to major cities such as Lima, Arequipa and Cuzco as migrants moved there in search of work.
More squeamish travelers may wish to decline the offer to pick out their cuy from a pen, and just wait for it to be served up on a plate. The guinea pig is usually served whole, with its head intact, either deep-fried or roasted. If you manage to overcome the initial discomfort of eating an animal more commonly known as a household pet, you may be surprised by the tasty flavor, which is reminiscent of fowl.
Common side dishes include potatoes and side salads, although a cold local beer such as Cuzquena or Arequipena may prove to be the perfect accompaniment. Upscale restaurants in tourist areas do offer cuy, but head to a local cuyeria in the suburbs for a more authentic experience.
Read This Next
He’enalu: The Ancient Art of Surfing
Adventure
Oct 27, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedHotel
Jan 29, 2025Hotel San Luis Obispo Launches Offer for Winter Refresh
Hotel San Luis Obispo invites guests to unwind and reset with a restorative escape along California’s Central Coast. The hotel’s new offer, Winter Refresh Getaway, helps guests kick off the new year feeling their best.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Hotel
Jan 29, 2025“The Traitors”-Inspired Stays in Scotland
Are you a fan of the reality show The Traitors? With the third season currently airing, traveling fans of the show can enjoy themed stays in Scotland at Glenapp Castle and Edinburgh’s The Witchery.
Cruises
Jan 28, 2025What Are the Mental Health Benefits of Cruising?
If you’ve ever cruised before, you’ve probably come back feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and, while sad the cruise is over, prepped to take on the demands of daily life anew. However, this was probably just a feeling, a vibe. You didn’t have a study to back it up — until now.
Sponsored Content
Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City
Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.
Hotel
Jan 28, 2025Spend Valentine’s Day in Mexico at These Luxury Resorts
Solmar Hotels & Resorts in Mexico invite travelers to celebrate Valentine’s Day at its properties in Cabo San Lucas. With a variety of romantic offerings available at each property, there is something for every sweetheart.
ShareThis