T'anta wawa

T'anta Wawa is a traditional bread from the Andean region of South America, particularly popular in Peru and Bolivia. The name "t'anta wawa" comes from the Quechua language, with "t'anta" meaning bread and "wawa" meaning baby or child. This bread is typically shaped and decorated to resemble a baby or child, hence the name.

History

The tradition of making t'anta wawa dates back to pre-Columbian times. It is believed to have originated as part of the Andean cosmology and religious practices. The bread was used in rituals and offerings to Pachamama, the earth mother in Inca mythology.

Preparation

T'anta wawa is made from a simple dough of wheat flour, sugar, butter, yeast, and milk. The dough is kneaded until smooth, then shaped into the form of a baby or child. The face is often made from a separate piece of dough and attached with egg wash, while details such as eyes and mouth are added with food coloring or painted on with a mixture of egg yolk and sugar.

Cultural Significance

T'anta wawa is traditionally prepared for the Day of the Dead celebrations in Peru and Bolivia. Families will make the bread and decorate it with the names of deceased loved ones, then place it on their altars or take it to the cemetery as an offering. The bread is also often given as a gift to children or used as a decoration during the festivities.

In addition to the Day of the Dead, t'anta wawa is also made for the Carnival celebrations in the Andean region. During this time, the bread is often shaped into different forms, such as animals or dolls, and used in the traditional yunza or umisha rituals, where a tree is filled with gifts and cut down as part of the festivities.

See Also

• Andean cuisine
• Day of the Dead
• Carnival
• Inca mythology