Amazonian Appetizers

Have you ever watched Fear Factor and squirmed? What would you do if you had to eat some of those gross things? Would you go hungry? There are several unusual dishes that are eaten in Peru without a second thought or a grimace.

On the coast ceviche of course is the dish with its fish "cooked" only with lime. Then in the low mountains the favorite is "cuy" or as we call them guinea pigs. Yes, those cute little critters become a fried or barbecued delicacy. Then we get into the jungle cuisine. Some are not so unusual like pirahna (afterall they are plentiful) or fried alligator nuggets. Fried plantains are great especially the sweet ones. However there are some foods that take a bit to get used to.

These are grub worms that usually are found in the coconut tree. They are put on skewers and grilled. They really don't taste bad once you get over the thought of what they are. They taste like very greasy fatback. But they are full of protein.

This is a type of ant that the locals love to eat. They are usually around an inch long. One day a year these ants sprout wings and fly to form new nests. On this day they are caught and eaten. Some fry them while the natives love to eat them as is. Ken was told they taste like lemon so he ventured to try one and said there was no taste but they were crunchy like popcorn.

Fortunately there are more conventional foods available, too. We are very thankful of that.