On our last Sunday in Peru, the folks at El Manantial Baptist Church had a "pachamanca" for our "despedida" or farewell dinner. A pachamanca is a traditional Peruvian dinner from the Andes Mountains. Since most of our folks have moved to Lima from the mountains, it is something they enjoy preparing for special occasions.
A fire is made in a hole in the ground to heat the stones or bricks that line the hole. After the fire dies down, the food (meat, potatoes, sweet potatoes, corn and beans) is placed in the hole, covered with herbs and dirt, and cooked.
Removing the food.
Separating the beans and potatoes.
Placing the meat in a pot to keep warm.
Taking the food to church.
DELICIOUS! Most often a pachamanca is eaten with your fingers. I don't know how a fork showed up in this picture!
