May 30 is National Potato Day in Peru. The potato was apparently first domesticated in Peru and parts of Bolivia, today producing thousands of varieties. After the Spanish invasion, potatoes were introduced from Peru to Europe and other parts of the world (latter part of the 16th century).
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| The locals of Haunca Huanca showed us their potato crops and explained the cultivation process back in November ('11) |
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| Many potato varieties are to be found in the local Cusco markets all year long
Chuño and Moraya are freeze-dried potatoes especially preserved and found in the higher altitude regions of Peru. Moraya is a white-freeze dried potato. The Chuño are small, dark - nearly black - potatoes. It is a five-day process that involves spreading them on the ground where they can freeze over night for 3 nights, in between which they are trampled by foot in the sun, to remove excess moisture, and then freeze-dried for another 2 nights. There is another process that produces the white Moraya which involves depositing them in cold river water for a time . These dried potatoes can be preserved this way for many months after. Chuño and Moraya are especially used in soups prepeared here in the Cusco region.
Because it's such a staple, the potato is used in many recipes and eaten on a daily basis for most Peruvians.
Preserved white Moray and dark Chuño potatoes in the market.
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