An Andean Feast called Pachamanca

Linda Hewitt and Fred and Amy Wesson, enjoying the pachamanca.

On October 2nd, thirty members and guests were the fortunate few who, along with our hosts - the Wesson family - were treated to one of the best of all Andean inventions. This year's pachamanca was as good as any we could remember from past years. The pachamanquero, Sr. Gutarra, and his crew prepared the pit, selected the stones to heat, and after naming our hosts “padrinos,” began layering the food and herbs, paying especial attention that all the flavours would meld together as well as cook all in the same time.

Beers and pisco sours kept us occupied until the “destape” of the main event. After a short ceremony, the long tressle tables were piled with the meats, all types of mountain vegetables, fresh cheese and hot pepper fondue.

The traditional Andean lunch concluded with a little taste of the southern coastal valley of Chincha, as we piled out plates high with hot, airy picarones in molasses.

Our thanks go out to Amy and Fred for allowing us to use the grounds of their home and for being the perfect hosts. Thanks also to Sr. Gutarra and to his staff for their cheerful and hard work, and to Backus for its unfailing support of the Association's events.

This years’ annual Pachamanca event was held on the grounds of the home of Fred and Amy Wesson