Los Cabos, Mexico (October 25, 2012) "“ Peruvian cuisine, recognized around the world for providing some of South America's most exciting ethnic flavors, takes center stage beginning Monday, November 26, during a six-day culinary extravaganza at the Sheraton Hacienda Del Mar Golf & Spa Resort, Los Cabos.
Led by notable expert and life-long ambassador of Peruvian cuisine Chef Jose Montes, who also serves as the executive chef at Sheraton Lima Hotel & Convention Center, the Peruvian Food Festival will feature an open-to-the-public general admission festival scheduled for Wednesday through Friday, November 28-30. Other events and educational workshops are also planned for hotel and time-share guests, the business community, and hotel staff.
Excited to share his passion for discovering new foods and uncovering ancient cooking techniques from his homeland, Montes said: "Peru has an amazing cuisine…foods that were prepared by ancient civilizations are still enjoyed today, while typical Peruvian dishes also benefit from European, African and Asian influences, and the geography of the country yields such diverse ingredients, abundant seafood from the coast, tropical fruits from the jungle, and unusual varieties of grains and potatoes from the Andes."
"We are thrilled to have Sheraton Lima Executive Chef Montes serve as the culinary expert for our Peruvian Food Festival, as he brings world-class credentials, incredible culinary abilities, along with exciting recipes and techniques, all that resound with our desire to provide a stellar event and opportunity for cultural exchange here at the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar," said General Manager Renato Mendonca.
Earlier this year, Montes was recognized with an award from Alas Peruanas University for his culinary contributions. In addition to his many appearances to represent his country in culinary exhibitions, Montes traveled to China with the Peruvian president, where, as official chef for the delegation, Montes cooked for high-ranking party officials, introducing them to Peruvian cuisine.
An active member of the Peruvian Gastronomy Association (Apega), Chef Montes is a member of MISTURA, an association of the best known chefs in Peru. A contributor to the book Los Dioses de la Cocina del Perú (The Gods of Peruvian Cuisine), he is currently at work on a book about the northern Peruvian foods of the pre-Incan Tallan and Vicusn cultures.
For more information on the Sheraton Hacienda del Mar Golf & Spa Resort or to find out more about the Peruvian Food Festival November 26 through December 1, please call 52-624-145-8000 or visit www.sheratonloscabos.com.
