Fiesta Limena Peruvian Food

Of course, different regions of Peru are known for different things. The Huancayo region, which we recently visited, is known for its dairy products. Miles and miles of farms stretch through the countryside, producing a bounty of fresh milk, yogurt, butter and cheese. We were lucky enough to sample some fresh dulche de leche and soft serve ice cream too! Farm-fresh products are always delicious, and the use of these products in the Peruvian food served in the area made it taste that much better.

The purpose of this blog is not only to keep our customers updated, but also to inform those who are new to Peruvian food about the many wonders of Peru’s cuisine. On our most recent trip to Peru, we enjoyed a dish called Pachamanca. The word is a combination of the Quechua phrase meaning “earthen oven.” It’s an appropriate name both for this traditional food, and for the way its cooked. In order to create the “earthen oven,” stones are heated over a fire. Once they are hot, meat, potatoes and vegetables are laid over them. Then the hole is covered with grass and earth. After about an hour and a half, the meat is tender and the meal is ready. Although the process has evolved somewhat over time, it still mimics the way ancient civilizations of Peru cooked their meals. The picture to the left shows the Pachamanca where our meal was cooked. I recommend trying Pachamanca if you visit the Huancayo region of Peru, where it is often served in restaurants.

Mistura, a 6 day celebration of Peruvian food, is coming up again in Lima. Lasting from September 7th to September 12th, the event will bring together Peruvian chefs from a variety of restaurants who will show off their best creations. Everything from traditional street food to gourmet cuisine will be represented, and festival goers will have the chance to sample appetizers, entrees and desserts. The event also celebrates the farmers, fishermen and artisans who contribute the fantastic produce, meats, fish, cheese and bread that make Peruvian food so delicious. There will also be a focus on biodiversity, green living, and ethically produced products. The event is managed by internationally renowned Peruvian chef Gaston Accurio, who believes that Peruvian food is one of the countries greatest assets. It is a truly fantastic event, and a must for foodies! Last year was a wonderful success, and we’re looking forward to this year’s displays.

Have you ever tried Sopa de Gallina? It may sound unusual if you are unfamiliar with Peruvian food, but it’s actually something you’ve had before – chicken noodle soup. This classic food is different with a Peruvian twist, however. We serve it with a hard boiled egg, one large piece of chicken, and long noodles. So it may be different from the kind of soup you’re used to eating, but it is delicious! Ask your server for the Sopa del Dia, or Soup of the Day, and try Sopa de Gallina when you get the chance.

All of this rain seems to have affected our moods. The sunshine and warmth we had recently got everyone ready for spring and even thinking of summer. But now we’ve got heavy rain and wind, which is supposed to last through tomorrow, and everyone seems to want to hibernate until then! Luckily, Fiesta Limena is the perfect place to go for comfort food on a cold, wet day. Stop in for some delicious Peruvian food, like a hot plate of Pollo Saltado, or a bowl of hearty soup – we guarantee you’ll be feeling better in no time!

The Wisconsin State Journal featured an article about Peruvian food this week. Chris Martell starts off his article by writing, “Peruvians have begun to realize that they have a resource as valuable as oil is to the Middle East. Their cuisine.” Of course, at Fiesta Limena we know this is true. Peruvian cuisine is one of the best kept secrets in the culinary world, at least in the United States. But now, more and more Peruvian restaurants are popping up across the country, and Americans are getting a taste of this fabulous food.

When you’re looking for an interesting new restaurant to try in Fairfield County, Fiesta Limena is the perfect choice. If you have never tried Peruvian food, bring a few friends so you can all order different things. Lomo Saltado is a customer favorite, with stir fried strips of steak, rice and fries. Order it with extra juice if you like dipping your fries. You might also want to try Chaufa, Peruvian fried rice, or Tallarines, the Peruvian version of lo mein. If you’re more adventurous and enjoy seafood, ceviche is a great option. It is a raw fish dish that is “cooked” in a citrus marinade. The result is a light, fresh meal. Any of these options would be a great introduction to Peruvian cuisine.

Pisco Day has arrived, and we are happy to share our new drinks, the Pisco Limon, Peru Libre, and Primavera with you. The Pisco Limon is refreshing, the Peru Libre is a classic Pisco and Coke, and the Primavera is a tropical delight. We invite you to try them starting today, as we celebrate a great holiday. Pisco goes perfectly with Peruvian food!

We would like to wish all of our customers a Merry Christmas, or Feliz Navidad! Enjoy your holiday traditions with friends and family, and don’t forget to visit us for some Peruvian food when you’re sick of all of the leftovers!