1. Leche de Tigre (Tiger’s Milk)
Leche de Tigre is a lemon and fish invigorating potion that’s also well known as an aphrodisiac concentrate originating from Peru. It basically consists of leftover fish run-off along with the liquid of the Ceviche Marination: lime juice, sliced onions, chilies etc. The name comes from the white colour of the mix, which looks like milk with the tiger thing alluding to the potent effects. It dates back to ancient times for sexual potency. It is also known as Peruvian Viagra, so if you have the opportunity to give it a go, remember to be with a nice companion, just in case.2. Chilaquiles and Mezcal
You will find yourself truly mesmerised by the Mexico experience with plenty of contrasts across the country. This will be no more apparent than when sampling the Mexican dish of Chilaquiles along with Mezcal (including the worm). There is a love-hate relationship going on here, so the key is to close your eyes while all the flavours dissolve inside your mouth while you experience all the senses in the world. Don’t forget to chew the worm slowly. Feel its soft, hairy, bubbly skin break through your teeth before it heads south. You will never be the same again. Chase it down with an Indio to the soundtrack of some Café Tacuba.3. Antojitos
Eating Antojitos – ‘little cravings’ – prepared by street vendors in Mexico City is definitely one of the must-do things while travelling around not only in Mexico but all of Central and South America. I hear many people are scared of this, but the truth is that street food is the heartbeat of Mexico and you can find them literally anywhere, anytime: breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, afterparty, midnight craving etc. Most of them include corn as an ingredient or even as the main ingredient like in ‘esquites’ (corn kernels with lime juice and chilli powder). They are greasy and delicious and this a rite of passage to becoming a legit Mexican traveller and more open-minded human being. However, make sure you have a good dose of Pepto or Imdium with you as they may cause strange effects to those that are not used to them.4. Aguardiente
Aguardiente from Colombia looks like water, but is painfully dissimilar. They often come in giant looking poppers/ juice boxes (or a bottle much bigger than you’re likely able to handle) where you will acquire its sweet taste after a couple of shots, which will have you on the roof of someone’s car before you know it and well on your way towards an unforgettable night that you’re probably not going to remember.5. Bonfiest
This fine, white powder from Colombia will resurrect one from the depths of any hangover. You’ll be back on the Aguilas and playing air accordion in no time after mixing a couple of these in water. You can bring some home in your normal luggage too.
Latin ScapeLatin Scape will perform a tribute to a South American band Soda Stereo at the New Globe Theatre on Thursday 13th November.
{youtube}rTftvX1AB2Q{/youtube}
