Guinea Pig Peruvian Food Peru Food

When cooked guinea pigs tend to have an expression of either a maniacal joy or b blood curdling terror.

Guinea pig peruvian food peru food. Cuy pronounced kwee which is guinea pig. Guinea pigs are also high in protein and low in fat and cholesterol. While it might seem unconventional to tuck into furry critters better known as domesticated pets in the west this indigenous mammal has been a staple. In peru it s estimated that some 65 million guinea pigs are consumed each year.

It s not a regular meal for peruvians but is often served on special occasions such as holidays and birthdays. A traditional food guinea pig called cuy in peru has been served whole on special occasions since inca times. Believe it or not guinea pigs originated in the andean region colombia ecuador bolivia and peru and were originally raised specifically for eating. Eating cuy is such a tradition in fact an estimated 65 million guinea pigs are consumed annually in peru that there are festivals celebrating the humble beast with contests for the best dressed largest and of course best tasting guinea pig.

A typical meal of cuy guinea pig served with salad and potatoes one of the more unique delicacies in peruvian food is cuy a baked or fried guinea pig served with potatoes. It wasn t until the spanish came and started sending guinea pigs to europe that the furry creatures were treated as pets. Peruvians even declared a national holiday every second friday in october to celebrate the guinea pig. Ex pat bolivians and peruvians are prepared to pay 30 for a guinea pig that they eat on special occasions chopped up and deep fried a bit like chicken.

Even if you didn t the very sight of a roasted guinea pig can send shivers down your spine. Guinea pigs are cute and cuddly and eating one is like eating your pet dog. What they are is a delicious delicacy best served with potatoes and salsa. At first it was hard to get permission for.