The Healthy Teen Cookbook. Remmi Smith

Brazil, Bolivia, and Chile. The Peruvian portion of the famous Amazon Rainforest fills about 69 percent of the country. Peru has the second largest portion of the Amazon Rainforest, while Brazil contains the largest chunk. Peru’s landscapes are as well-known as its history. Machu Picchu is the site of the ancient ruins of Peru’s Quechua ancestors and is the country’s most popular tourist spot. This Incan citadel is found deep in the mountainous Andes; the journey there is not easy, but the historical site, along with breathtaking views, make the trek worth it.

      Peruvian cuisine has become increasingly more well-known in recent years. Its influences range from the country’s indigenous Incan roots to the cuisines of Spain, China, and Italy. One of the staples of Peruvian cuisine is quinoa. Many of their dishes have big flavors due to their range of chilis and other spices used.

       Peruvian Beef and Rice Timbale

      Prep time: 30 minutes • Cook time: 15 minutes

      Ingredients:

      2 cups jasmine rice or basmati rice (uncooked)

      4 cups water

      1 cup frozen peas

      2 Tbsp. olive oil (divided)

      1 large sweet potato (peeled, medium dice; roasted)