The World Food Prize Foundation

The Borlaug Blog

Youth Voices: Culinary Crescendo - Picarones and Peruvian Palates

 
By Saanvi Ram
2024 Borlaug-Ruan International Intern

In the quiet corners of a bustling world, there exists a harmony found in unexpected places. Last Thursday marked a memorable occasion as I joined the festivities with the breeding team at CIP, celebrating the culmination of the harvest season. What an evening it was — filled with laughter, music, and the flavors of Peruvian cuisine! Among the array of dishes I sampled, none captivated my palate quite like the picarones. For those uninitiated, picarones are a cherished Peruvian dessert crafted from sweet potato and squash, meticulously deep-fried to achieve a golden crispness, and served with a decadent syrup often made from figs or molasses. Each bite offered a blend of textures and flavors that left a lasting impression.

Yet, the true highlight of the evening was the company. They say that great food is best enjoyed with great company, and in that regard, I was truly blessed. The warmth and camaraderie shared among us added an extra layer of joy to the festivities. Reflecting on last week’s blog, I had relied heavily on Google Translate for communication, but something beautiful has blossomed since then. My new friends have taken it upon themselves to improve their English through our conversations, just as I do my best to reciprocate with Spanish phrases.

Amidst these enriching language lessons, a heartwarming ritual has become a cornerstone of my daily routine: the gentle wisdom of Simplicio, a venerable gentleman whose eyes sparkle with kindness. Despite his seventy years, his spirit remains youthful and his wisdom boundless. Every visit to the cafeteria brings an opportunity for Simplicio to impart a few new words or phrases as I settle my bill — a small gesture that has become a cherished part of my Peruvian experience...[CONTINUE READING]

07/22/2024 3:52 PM
© 2025 The World Food Prize Foundation. All Rights Reserved.