ocopa
Ocopa is a traditional Peruvian sauce and the dish commonly known as papa a la ocopa, originating in Arequipa, in southern Peru. The sauce is a thick paste made by blending roasted peanuts with ají amarillo, garlic, and a herb mixture that typically includes huacatay (a native Peruvian herb) or cilantro, along with queso fresco or another fresh cheese and toasted sesame seeds. Some versions use bread or crackers to aid thickening, and others add onions or milk to adjust texture and richness.
Preparation involves toasting or frying the aromatics, grinding them with peanuts and cheese into a smooth
Origins and significance: Ocopa is a hallmark of Arequipeña cuisine and is widely recognized within Peru as
Variations: Though the core concept is consistent—potatoes served with a peanut-based, herbaceous sauce—recipes vary in the