Traditional Food In Peru – Stamps On The Passport

Peruvian cuisine is a culinary adventure that every food lover must embark on at least once in their lifetime. The rich and diverse cuisine of Peru is a perfect blend of indigenous, African, Spanish, and Asian influences that will tantalize your taste buds like never before. One of the best things about Peruvian cuisine is that it's not just limited to the gastronomic capital of Lima, but can be found throughout the country, from the coastal areas to the highlands and the Amazon jungle. If you're planning a trip to Peru or just curious about Peruvian cuisine, here are ten traditional dishes that you absolutely must try.

Ceviche

Ceviche is perhaps the most famous of all Peruvian dishes, and it's easy to see why. It's a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that features raw fish marinated in lime juice, chili peppers, onions, and cilantro. This dish is commonly served with sweet potato and corn, and it's the perfect meal on a hot summer day.

Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a lovely mix of stir-fried steak, onions, tomatoes, and French fries, seasoned with soy sauce and vinegar. It is served with rice and is a hearty and filling dish that will satisfy any hungry traveler.

Aji de Gallina

Aji de Gallina is a creamy and delicious chicken dish that is seasoned with ají amarillo, a type of Peruvian chili pepper. The chicken is boiled and shredded before being mixed with a sauce made from bread, milk, cheese, and nuts. It's served with boiled potatoes and rice and is a perfect comfort food on a chilly day.

Anticuchos

Anticuchos are a popular street food all across Peru, and they are essentially skewers of grilled beef or beef heart, marinated in a spicy sauce made with cumin, garlic, and ají panca. Served with a side of boiled potatoes, this dish is both flavorful and filling.

Papa a la Huancaína

Papa a la Huancaína is a classic Peruvian dish that features boiled potatoes in a creamy sauce made with ají amarillo, evaporated milk, and cheese, seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper. It's commonly served with boiled eggs and olives and is a great vegetarian option.

Causa Rellena

Causa Rellena is a cold potato dish that is similar to mashed potatoes and is often used as a base for other ingredients. The potatoes are usually mixed with lime juice, ají amarillo, and oil before being layered with chicken or tuna salad and avocado or veggies.

Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo is a classic Peruvian dish that's easy to make but utterly delicious. This one-pot meal consists of chicken and rice, seasoned with garlic, onion, ají panca, and cilantro, and is a favorite of adults and kids alike. It's often served with a side of beans or fried plantains.

Chupe de Camarones

Chupe de Camarones is a hearty shrimp soup that's packed with flavors and textures. The dish features a creamy broth made with milk, eggs, potatoes, and cheese, seasoned with garlic, onions, and ají amarillo, and is loaded with fresh shrimp and vegetables, like peas and carrots.

Pescado a lo Macho

Pescado a lo Macho is a seafood lover's dream come true. The dish features fried fish fillet, smothered in a spicy tomato and seafood sauce, made with squid, shrimp, and mussels. It's often served with boiled potatoes and rice and is a great way to indulge in some fresh seafood while in Peru.

Pollo a la Brasa

Pollo a la Brasa, or roasted chicken, is a Peruvian staple, and it's easy to see why. The chicken is marinated in a mix of dark beer, soy sauce, garlic, and cumin before being roasted over an open flame until crispy and juicy. The dish is often served with a side of French fries and salad and is a great meal to share with friends and family.

Peruvian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and these ten dishes barely scratch the surface of what the country has to offer. Whether you're a meat lover or vegetarian, there's a Peruvian dish out there that's perfect for you. So why not treat yourself to a culinary adventure and discover the exciting flavors of Peru?