Peruvian food is an irresistible combination of flavors, colors and textures that has conquered the world, winning awards such as the World Travel Awards. However, what is the characteristic that makes every bite memorable? It is the ideal combination of spicy, sweet, sour and salty flavor. In this blog, I invite you to learn why Peru is an ideal tourist destination not only for Machu Picchu, Lima, Arequipa and its countless wonders, but also for its delicious Peruvian food that makes food lovers fall in love with it. Are you ready to learn why Peruvian food is the best?
What is typical Peruvian food? A bit of history
Peruvian food is an amazing sample of the extensive history and cultural diversity of the country. The gastronomy of this region has evolved from traditional Andean traditions to modern trends, making it one of the best in the world.
The indigenous people of the Andes cultivated native products including potatoes, corn and quinoa, which today are essential in many recipes. Ingredients such as pork and spices arrived with the Spanish in the 16th century and merged with local traditions. Later, African and Asian communities brought new recipes and flavors, which further enhanced the local cuisine. Peruvian cuisine was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2011.
Top Peruvian food you must try
Ceviche
Ceviche is a must in any conversation about Peruvian gastronomy. Ceviche, the most popular dish in Peruvian gastronomy, has its roots in Peru’s coastal civilizations, which used fresh seafood. The current version of ceviche, which became popular during the Spanish colonization, marinates the fish with lime juice instead of the traditional fermentation.
Ceviche is elaborated by marinating raw fish in lime juice, which “cooks” it with its acidity. Red onion, cilantro and rocoto are added to balance the sour, spicy and salty flavors.
Lomo Saltado (Stir-Fried Beef)
When the Chinese community in Peru began to adapt their culinary techniques to local ingredients in the 19th century, lomo saltado originated. The result was a stir-fry with beef, fried potatoes, onion, tomato and a soy-based sauce, a clear demonstration of the fusion of Asian and Peruvian cuisine. You’ll have a delicious meal that combines the essence of Asian cuisine with Peruvian authenticity when served with rice.
Causa Limeña (Potato Casserole)
One of Peru’s most famous dishes is the causa limeña, which is famous for its freshness and versatility. It is prepared by adding yellow potato, lemon, aji amarillo and a pinch of salt, creating a creamy base that can be filled with chicken or tuna. It is often decorated with egg slices, olives, avocado or avocado slices and even seafood, and is served cold, making it an ideal option for warm days or gatherings.
Cuy Guinea Pig
Cuy, also known as guinea pig, is prepared in various ways, but one of the most prominent methods is “cuy chactado.” In this preparation, the guinea pig is cooked until its skin becomes crispy and golden, while the inner meat remains juicy and tender. To enhance its flavor, this Peruvian recipe is based on a marinade rich in local spices such as cumin, garlic and chili.
Additional information: In the Inca era, guinea pig was considered an important source of protein. Its preparation not only had a nutritional purpose, but was also an act of celebration and ritual, representing the role of food in the social and spiritual life of the commu
Ají de Gallina (Creamy Chicken)
Aji de gallina is another typical Peruvian food that’ll make you feel at home. It is a shredded chicken stew with a mild sauce made of aji amarillo, bread and milk. It has a distinctive flavor, mild and slightly sweet, though not too spicy. Aji de gallina is usually served with white rice and garnished with olives and boiled egg.
Pollo a la Brasa (Roasted Chicken)
In Peru, everyone enjoys pollo a la brasa. This is chicken marinated in a special blend of spices: garlic, cumin, chili and beer. It is then slowly roasted in a special oven, which gives it a crispy skin and a juicy, flavorful interior. The ideal combination of smoky and spicy flavors makes pollo a la brasa so appealing. It is traditionally served with fresh salad and fries, as well as a variety of sauces, such as chili sauce.
Anticuchos (Grilled Heart)
Anticuchos are a Peruvian street food delicacy consisting of beef heart skewers marinated in a mixture of garlic, aji panca bell pepper and vinegar. The deep and complex flavor of this marinated heart is further enhanced by grilling. The result is a smooth and irresistible texture with a smoky and slightly spicy touch. Served with boiled corn and golden potatoes, resulting in an excellent combination of flavors and textures.
Chiriuchu
Chiriuchu is a typical food from the Cusco region of Peru and is a true symbol of Andean culinary tradition. A mixture of guinea pig meat (cuy), dried meat and other ingredients, such as roasted corn, fresh cheese and chili, is inside. Everything is mixed together and served as a festive, very spicy and tasty salad that is eaten cold. Chiriuchu is famous for its unique flavor and for its role in Cusco’s important festivities, such as Corpus Christi and Inti Raymi.
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Arroz con Pollo (Rice with Chicken)
Arroz con pollo is a traditional Peruvian food consisting of rice cooked with chicken pieces and seasoned with a mixture of cilantro, garlic and chili, which gives it its characteristic green color and fresh flavor. The rice absorbs all the juices and spices while the chicken cooks until juicy and tender, creating a delicious mixture. This dish is ideal to accompany a fresh salad or a huancaína cream. It is easy to prepare and ideal for sharing with the family.
Papa a la Huancaína
One of the most popular dishes in Peru is papa a la huancaína, which is composed of cooked, cold potatoes covered with a creamy sauce made from aji amarillo, queso fresco, milk and a little garlic. This mild and spicy sauce enhances the flavor of the potatoes and gives them a vibrant and attractive yellow color. Huancaína potato is usually served as a starter in Peruvian dishes, accompanied by black olives and slices of boiled egg.
Rocoto Relleno (Stuffed Spicy Peppers)
In Peru, rocoto relleno is a typical dish from the Arequipa region. The main ingredient is rocoto, a very hot red bell pepper. Beef, pork or chicken is generously stuffed with onion, spices and sometimes olives or hard-boiled egg. It is then baked in the oven until the rocoto is tender and the stuffing is cooked perfectly, resulting in a juicy texture and intense flavor. It is served with potatoes, which help to soften the spiciness, and a cheese sauce, which gives the dish a creamy and rich coating.
The best restaurants in Peru to enjoy authentic Peruvian food
Now that you know just a few of the best Peruvian recipes, it is inevitable to ask yourself: where can I enjoy them? Which Peruvian food near me? Don’t worry! Peru, recognized as the gastronomic center of Latin America, offers a wide range of gastronomic options. Here is a list of the best places to eat in Peru where you can enjoy the best Peruvian cuisine:
Lima
Central
- Address: Av. Pedro de Osma 301, Barranco
- Description: Known for its innovative tasting menu that explores Peruvian ingredients from different altitudes.
Astrid y Gastón
- Address: Av. Paz Soldán 290, San Isidro
- Description: Founded by the renowned chef Gastón Acurio, this restaurant serves traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern and elegant twist.
Cusco
Cicciolina
- Address: Calle Triunfo 393, Cusco
- Description: A spot to try tapas and Peruvian food with an international touch.
Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse
- Address: Calle San Agustín 275, Cusco
- Description: Famous for its grilled meats and focus on Peruvian cuisine, Uchu offers a high-quality dining experience in Cusco.
Arequipa
El Rincón que no conoces
- Address: Av. La Paz 515, Arequipa
- Description: Offers an authentic experience with traditional Arequipeño dishes like rocoto relleno and ocopa arequipeña.
Chicha by Gastón Acurio
- Address: Calle Santa Catalina 210, Arequipa
- Description: Also led by Gastón Acurio, this restaurant showcases modern Arequipeño cuisine, focusing on local ingredients and traditional recipes.
Peruvian gastronomy is a true sensory pleasure. Each dish has a flavor, culture and tradition that take you to the essence of Peru. Take a moment to appreciate the history and passion behind every bite of a Peruvian dish the next time you sit down to enjoy a Peruvian food, and celebrate the richness of this incredible gastronomy. ¡Buen provecho!
