Peruvian gastronomy is incredibly diverse and rich, and there are several dishes and drinks that are essential to experience the culinary essence of the country. Here is a list of what you should not miss if you have the opportunity to enjoy Peruvian cuisine.
Dishes Not to Be Missed:
•Ceviche:
Description: Raw fish or seafood marinated in lemon or lime juice, mixed with onion, chilli, coriander and salt. It is often accompanied with sweet potato and corn.
Why try it: It is Peru’s most emblematic dish, famous for its freshness and its balance of sour, spicy and salty flavours.
•Lomo saltado:
Description: Beef stir-fried with onion, tomato, chilli and soy sauce, served with rice and fries.
Why try it: It is a perfect example of Chinese-Peruvian fusion (chifa), showcasing the blend of ingredients and culinary techniques.
•Ají de gallina:
Description: Shredded chicken in a creamy sauce based on aji amarillo, cheese, nuts and bread, served with rice and potatoes.
Why try it: It represents the richness of Peruvian cuisine with its mild flavour and creamy texture.
•Causa Limeña:
Description: Yellow mashed potato seasoned with aji amarillo, stuffed with chicken, tuna or seafood, garnished with avocado and hard-boiled egg.
Why try it: A cold dish with a mixture of flavours and textures, ideal for experiencing the versatility of the Peruvian potato.
•Rocoto relleno:
Description: Rocoto peppers, very hot, stuffed with meat, cheese and spices, then cooked in sauce.
Why try it: It is a sample of the use of rocoto, a very potent local chilli pepper, in Peruvian cuisine.
•Anticuchos:
Description: Skewers of meat, typically beef heart, marinated and grilled, served with potatoes and aji sauce.
Why try it: Offers an authentic Peruvian street food experience, with a unique smoky and spicy flavour.
•Pollo a la brasa:
Description: Grilled chicken marinated in a blend of spices, cooked on the grill.
Why try it: A classic Peruvian dish, known for its juicy flavour and crispy skin, ideal for sharing with the family.
•Seco de cordero:
Description: Lamb stew cooked with coriander, chilli and spices, served with rice and beans.
Why try it: It represents an important part of the Peruvian culinary tradition, with a deep and well-seasoned flavour.
Delicious Desserts:
•Suspiro a la limeña:
Description: A creamy dessert made of condensed milk, meringue and vanilla essence.
Why try it: It is sweet and smooth, and represents the Spanish influence on Peruvian pastries.
•Mazamorra morada:
Description: Pudding made of purple corn, dried fruits and spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
Why try it: It offers a unique flavour and is a traditional dessert with a vibrant colour.
•Three Milks Cake:
Description: Cake soaked in a mixture of three types of milk (evaporated, condensed and cream).
Why try it: Its moist texture and sweetness make it a favourite throughout Latin America, including Peru.
Representative Drinks:
•Pisco sour:
Description: Cocktail made with pisco (grape liqueur), lemon juice, sugar and egg white, garnished with a few drops of Angostura bitters.
Why try it: It’s Peru’s national cocktail and a perfect way to experience pisco, a distinctive Peruvian liqueur.
•Chicha morada:
Description: Non-alcoholic drink made from purple corn, fruit, spices and sugar.
Why try it: Reflects indigenous tradition and is refreshing, with a slightly fruity and spicy taste.
•Inka Cola:
Description: Bright yellow Peruvian fizzy drink with a unique taste.
Why try it: It is a symbol of Peruvian culture, and its distinctive taste is something you can only find in Peru.
