Livia, our beloved team technician, grew up in Peru and moved to Minnesota as an adult. Livia has worked in the Betty Crocker Kitchens for many years, sharing her love of fresh foods and special talents with everyone she meets. Her sister Evelina, who still lives in Cuzco, Peru, is visiting Livia this winter. While here, we talked Livia and Evelina into preparing their tasty cuisine for all in the Betty Crocker Kitchens to experience.
Peruvian food is known as the new Thai, as it boasts of culinary influences from Spanish, Basque, African, Chinese, Japanese, Italian, French and British immigrants. 2009 Package Facts says that "Peruvian food will continue to quickly gain widespread appeal for its fresh and familiar ingredients prepared with new flavor and spice combinations." And yet another source, Bon Appetit recommends that we "Look south-to Peru- for the next big ethnic cuisine. This gastronic capital of the Americas boasts 4000 varieties of potatoes and 2000 species of fish."
What did Livia and Evelina prepare? The foods they are accustomed to: Ceviche, citrus-marinated seafood, served as an appetizer. Minestrone Soup, quite different than the Italian version. It's creamy and hearty at the same time, with lots of veggies, pasta, spinach and basil. Though I loved everything, the soup was my favorite! Causa Rellena, a main dish made from seasoned mashed potatoes molded around a mix of cooked seasoned shredded beef, Greek olives and raisins and deep fried. Saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry made with thinly sliced beef, onions, tomatoes, red jalapeno, red wine vinegar and soy sauce was totally tasty, but hot when you bit into the japaleno slices. And for dessert, Livia's all-time favorite which she prepares from time to time for special occasions and we never tire ot, Arroz con Leche, rice pudding made with milk, sugar, vanilla, coconut water, egg yolks, spices and raisins.
Though not yet available, check http://www.bettycrocker.com from time to time for the recipes. Like all great cooks, the recipes are in Evelina's head, soon to be published.
The photos boast of the foods and fun time we had.
Since everything is made from scratch, Evelina is hard at work!
Livia and Evelina explain what they've prepared. Evelina speaks in her native Peruvian and Livia translates for us. Causa Relleno and Minestrone.
The ceviche, wonderful and savory! Served with red onions and sweet potatoes.
The stir-fry. savory and hot, especially when you bite into a red jalapeno slice!
Curious, hungry tasters line up....
We all agree, everything is wonderful! So fresh, so tasty, every ingredient specially selected and prepared from scratch, with love from Livia and Evelina. What a terrific learning experience.