Peruvian Gastronomy That You Must Try

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.