Peruvian cuisine has claimed a significant spot on the global gastronomic stage. Among its many culinary treasures, Peruvian ceviche is a vibrant and refreshing dish that has captivated palates worldwide. Peruvian ceviche’s unique preparation and cultural significance led to its inclusion on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
A Culinary Masterpiece On UNESCO’s Intangible Heritage List
🍽️🐟The ingredients and traditions of Peruvian ceviche have earned a place on the @UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Let's celebrate! 🇵🇪🎉#CevicheForHumanity pic.twitter.com/0mMI880iUs
— Embassy of Peru in India (@EmbaPeruIndia) December 8, 2023
While the UNESCO Heritage List is mostly focused on handicrafts, festivals, dance styles, and traditional knowledge, a few food-related additions stood out. One of them was an inscription of ceviche, a traditional Peruvian marinated seafood meal. Peruvian ceviche’s unique preparation and cultural significance led to its inclusion on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The roots of ceviche can be traced back to pre-Columbian times when indigenous communities along the Peruvian coast relied on abundant fresh seafood. The dish evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultural and culinary exchanges. The amalgamation of these diverse influences contributed to the unique character of Peruvian ceviche.
Iftar has also been added to UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. During the holy month of Ramadan, the tradition commemorates the completion of fasting each day. It frequently comprises traditional meals enjoyed by families and communities. Another list maintained by UNESCO is titled ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Protection.’ It has also included traditional knowledge, methods, and practices related to olive farming in Turkiye. Another inclusion is Xeedho, a Djiboutian cultural ritual referring to food provided by a mother-in-law to her son-in-law to commemorate the first week of her daughter’s marriage.
Efforts to preserve the dish and its cultural heritage include initiatives to promote responsible fishing, support local fishermen, and raise awareness about the importance of maintaining the ecological balance of marine ecosystems.
ALso Read: Peru: Machu Picchu To Allow 4,500 Tourists Per Day From Jan 2024; Is It Ecologically Responsible?
How Is The Dish?
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At the heart of Peruvian ceviche lies the freshest seafood, often featuring white fish like sea bass or flounder, octopus, squid, and shrimp. The seafood is marinated in a zesty mixture of lime or lemon juice, chilli peppers, red onions, and cilantro. The acidic citrus juice serves a dual purpose. It helps in both flavouring the seafood and effectively cooking it through a process called denaturation. The resulting ceviche is a medley of textures and tastes, combining the tender, citrus-infused seafood with the crunch of onions and the heat of chilli peppers. The preparation of Peruvian ceviche is an art that requires skill, precision, and an appreciation for fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Beyond its culinary excellence, Peruvian ceviche holds immense cultural significance for the people of Peru. It reflects the connection between the Peruvian people and the Pacific Ocean. The act of sharing ceviche with friends and family fosters a sense of community and celebration.
As a result, the dish has become a symbol of Peru’s cultural diversity and culinary prowess. It attracts food enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. Peruvian restaurants, both within the country and abroad, proudly feature ceviche on their menus, contributing to the globalisation of this iconic dish.
So, have you tasted this dish?
Cover image credits: Canva