engler3

=Mealtime Traditions=

__Spices:__
The Peruvian cuisine is mostly spicy dishes that started out as a blend of Spanish and surrounding ingredients. Dishes with these ingredients are "referred to as //Criolla//, or Creole." [4] The most popular spice in Peru is Chile. Chiles are used to give extra flavor to all dishes along with "mint, oregano, basil, parsley, and cilantro" [4].

__Staples:__
Some general foods eaten everyday in Peru include: Potatoes Rice Beans Fish Other various grains

"Peruvians are extremely hospitable and enjoy preparing and eating meals with company." [4] Often times, meals are eaten with guests on a more regular basis than just eating with a single family alone.

Villagers are usually in charge of all their own land and they spend a large portion of their day tending to it. The day of a typical villager begins early, usually when the sun rises. "The woman of the house will begin her day preparing an herbal tea called //mate// (MAH-tay) and various foods for her family." [4]

All the meals have signifigance to the day in the eyes of a Peruvian civilian. For example, lunch is important because without it, workers will be hungry while working in the fields. "It may consist of a thick broth of potatoes, corn, and barley, //palta aji// sauce (avocado chili sauce) with vegetables, and cool beverages." [4] Dinner in Peru is usually the most filling meal, especially for Peruvian children who don't eat at school.

[4] "Food in Peru." 24 Apr 2008 < [|http://www.nationsencyclopedia.com/Americas/Peru-AGRICULTURE.html>.]