On Day 2, we had the eye-opening opportunity to learn firsthand how to make traditional Peruvian food. Three Peruvian women—Delphina, Dexi, and Linda—welcomed us with open arms and shared their deep-rooted culinary traditions. Through this experience, we discovered that cooking in Peru is more than just preparing a meal; it is an act of love, a responsibility, and a way of preserving culture.
From a young age, girls in the villages begin learning to cook, as providing food is a crucial part of a woman's role in family life. As a girl myself, I noticed a contrast between their daily responsibilities and my own back home, where cooking is often a choice rather than a necessity. In the village, cooking is essential—an act of providing for one’s family. Despite this difference, I felt an incredible sense of connection as I worked alongside them, preparing dishes that have been passed down for generations.
One of the most memorable moments was learning to fold and wrap juanes—bundles of chicken, egg, rice, olives, and spices carefully enclosed in bijao leaves. The meticulous process of wrapping and tying the juanes felt almost like creating art, making me realize that, like art, food is a powerful form of expression in Peruvian culture. I also had the chance to cook and taste local dishes such as grilled fish, plantains, and even grubs—something I never imagined trying. But that’s what made this experience in Peru so special; I was constantly learning and stepping outside my comfort zone.
This experience made me feel like I was part of something much bigger than myself—a tradition woven into the identity of an entire community. As I shaped and folded each juane, I gained a deeper appreciation for cooking, not just as a way to sustain the body but as a means of bringing people together. As we cooked, we laughed and talked, sharing stories and forming connections. There was something deeply empowering about taking part in such an essential tradition—understanding the role of women in these villages and witnessing firsthand how food serves as a unifying force in the community.