The Local Experience: Lima’s Food Markets
Aside from receiving workshops and lectures at Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola about the typical ingredients used in the Peruvian cuisine, a visit to Lima’s many food markets gave the students of Hotelschool The Hague a clear outlook on Peru’s culture and local lifestyle. One example is the Mercado de Surquillo, a food market that is just a five-minute walk away from the center of Miraflores. Upon entering this market, you are immediately confronted with a variety of bright colors and the smells of all the fresh fruits and vegetables; some of which you may have never even heard of. These markets are so large and filled with fresh ingredients that you will probably find most of the locals purchasing their groceries here, but not without attempting to bargain first of course.
As for the presentation, the vendors at these markets seem to have mastered the art of displaying their produce in such a precise and beautiful manner, making it impossible for visitors not to gaze for less than five seconds. If you would like a taste of any of these “foreign” fruits, most vendors allow you to freely sample from their selection before purchasing.
Aside from all the fruits and vegetables, some vendors have stalls dedicated solely to herbs and spices from all corners of the world, as well as stalls with an enormous variety of nuts and dried fruits for sale.