Bolivia

Country - Bolivia

Cuisine Description - There are many similarities between the Bolivian cuisine and the one from Peru. These neighbor countries have influenced each other for a long period of time. One of the main reasons that determined the likenesses is the fact that they have almost the same relief.
The Bolivian cuisine is characterized by dishes that are appropriate to the climate. A multitude of spices are used and there can also be done a classification based on this criterion. The food in Bolivia can be served picante, medio picante or poco picante. The first one is the name given to the dishes that contain high quantities of condiments. Many types of peppers, as well as aji, are used. The potatoes and meats, along with Trout or trucha, as it is locally named, represent the main source of protein and carbohydrates in the altiplano regions, while in the plains people choose vegetables, freshwater fish and fruits, for these fundamental elements. People have made a goal from preparing consistent foods, in majority, because only these permit living in such an environment.
The tourists are recommended to consume light food at first, in order to accommodate to the elevation. Also, during the first days, people that are new to the Bolivian climate should keep away from alcoholic drinks. Bolivians have many traditional dishes, such as Empanadas, Sajta de pollo and Pique a lo macho, and also have beverages that represent their cuisine. Maté de coca is the name given to the coca leaf tea. Api is another type of Bolivian tea that includes corn, cloves, lemon and cinnamon. Chicha is a maze liqueur that is consumed, along with with maté de coca, during the festivals.
The fruit shakes are also popular. The Bolivian wines, although they cannot be compared to the ones made in Argentina or chile, are famous, but only locally.
Besides the fact that the country displays a very rich cuisine, the major cities also feature international restaurants.

Diversity is the word that best describes the Bolivian cuisine. This fact is due to the climate, mainly. The environment determined a certain lifestyle, which further means a certain style of cooking. Foreigners can be surprised by the multitude of dishes. Although the main ingredients are fish, meat and poultry, the Bolivians have used their creativity and they have created unique foods, in taste and in look. Bolivians from the higher regions have separate cooking styles and recipes that may differ from the ones that are specific to the lower regions. The altitude requires a certain diet. Copyright Recipes Wiki