Discovered: Chilean Cuisine snacking style!

My time in Santiago has opened up my taste buds to the Chilean cuisine; bland, and a tad on the unsophisticated side although, I judge from a completely unilateral and vegetarian perspective. Suffice to say, Chileans have really mastered the art of satisfied snacking. Here are a few simple recipes that will change your life!
(Photos aren't mine).

1. Pebre

A concoction of diced tomatoes, onions, coriander, garlic, chillies and olive oil. I like to add some lemon juice, salt and black pepper to taste. Just throw it all into a bowl, mix well et voila! You have yourself a great dip for different breads, nachos or romain lettuce for something a little more on the healthier side. My staple once* - it's so delicious, I can't get enough of it!

2. Salsa de Palta. (Avocado dip)
La palta salsa which literally translates to avocado sauce, is more of a dip. It's the most basic recipe - no genius is required! Just mash up a few avocados, add some mayo and bob's your uncle! Another great dip to spice up a packet of walkers ready salted or on top of bread.

3. Sopa de Papas. (Potato soup) (serves 2) 
I actually learnt this recipe of one of my best friends mother here in Chile. It's a great, super easy, quick and delicious way to warm the soul on a winters day.

Ingredients: 
3 potatoes
3 spring onions (finely chopped) (normal, round onions will do if you don't have spring onions.)
2 green/red chillies (finely chopped)
3-4 cloves of garlic (finely chopped)
handful of coriander (chopped)
salt and pepper to taste

1. Boil potatoes in a large pot of water. Once cooked, drain potatoes keeping hold of the potato stock in a jug. 
2. Empty the jug of potato stock back into the pot & add the remaining ingredients.
3. Simmer till the stock acquires the taste of the other ingredients.
4. Serve hot.

4. Apio Palta (Celery & Avocado salad)

I was literally obsessed with this salad for months on end and found myself reaching for it every chance I got. It's zesty, refreshing and perfect for summer.
Simply throw into a bowl some celery and thick chunks of avocado. Drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the salad and add salt and pepper to taste. 

5. Terremoto (Earthquake).

Something I wouldn't drink myself but have heard a lot about, the infamous terremoto drink is a staple in Chile. Word has it, it'll leave you feeling shaky un controllable, like an earthquake. 
It's a mixture of pipeño (sweet, fermented wine) served with a dollop of pineapple ice-cream on top. 

6. Pisco Sour

A popular Chilean cocktail; pisco, lime juice, sugar & one egg white shaken together.