How could we be so negligent? Last Saturday, Peru celebrated National Potato Day. Peruvians are very proud of the potato - it was supposedly cultivated here first (though the Chileans try to claim it too). They have thousands of varieties, and you will rarely be served a Peruvian dish without some kind of papa. (note - articles do matter: "la papa" is potato, "EL Papa" is the Pope. I'm sure I've made some blunders with that one). Anyway, they love their potatoes, and in part because it's something they have given to the world. Because of a strong cultural underdog mentality, living in the shadow of wealthier and more influential countries, Peruvians are thrilled for anything they can bring to the international table or do at a worldwide level. Food is right at the top in this regard. Visitors are most likely to be asked what dishes they have tried, even before what cities they have visited.
So it's a little late, but Happy Potato Day! Eat a spud and think of Peru.
So it's a little late, but Happy Potato Day! Eat a spud and think of Peru.
1 comment:
Have you checked out the National Museum yet? Over half of the museum (literally!!) is devoted to the potato! It really does have some amazing potato exhibits!
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