Photo Friday: India by way of South America

“India is here…with all its magic and mystery…its aromas, flavors and colors…”

While wandering the cobbled back alleys of Arequipa, Peru, I encountered this captivating scene, beckoning me to experience the flavors of India at Peru’s own Anuschka restaurant.

Wait a minute…the taste of India in the desert south of Peru?

As much as I love delving deeply into the local cuisine when traveling, I find it fascinating to dip now and then into the culinary cultural crossroads I find along the way.  It provides an interesting glimpse into the patterns of immigration and reminds me what a small world it is, after all.

The French occupation of Indochina means that today you can enjoy a nice crusty baguette or chocolate-drizzled crepe, as I did, in places such as Luang Prabang, Laos.

I’ve enjoyed an authentic (and out-of-this-world) Italian dinner one Christmas Eve in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The expat Italian owners had flown their extended family in from the motherland, and the wine and cheer was flowing.

High in the Andes of Peru, I had a beautiful plate of phad thai that would rival any other.

Cross-cultural cuisines also can present some interesting hybrids and local interpretations of international standards. At a Mexican restaurant in Thailand, for example, our chef substituted yogurt for sour cream on enchiladas. So successful was this pairing that I’ve adopted it as a standard practice!

Enjoy more travel photos at Delicious Baby’s Photo Friday.