A Guide to Peruvian Cuisine

The cuisine of Peru is one of the most diverse and flavorful in the world. The country’s varied geography – spanning coastal, Andean, and Amazonian regions – provides a rich bounty of seafood, meat, quinoa, and vegetables. Peru is especially noted for its production of potatoes and corn and chefs are gaining a reputation for their inventive approach to cooking. 

These are the most typical Peruvian ingredients and dishes to sample on your culinary escape to Peru.

Typical Peruvian cooking ingredients 

- Aji Amarillo: A bright yellow chili pepper, essential to many Peruvian dishes.

- Quinoa: A high-protein grain that originated in the Andes.

- Maíz Morado: Translating to purple corn, this is used to make the refreshing drink Chicha Morada and Mazamorra Morada (purple corn pudding).

- Cuy: Guinea pig is a traditional Andean delicacy, usually roasted or fried.

- Lucuma: This native fruit is a star ingredient of Peruvian desserts.

Must-try Peruvian dishes

- Ceviche: Peru’s national dish is a mix of fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice. It’s usually combined with onions, cilantro, and spicy aji peppers.

- Lomo Saltado: This stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce highlights the Chinese (Chifa) culinary influence on Peru. The dish is usually paired with steamed ice or French fries. 

- Tacu Tacu: This delicious omelet-inspired dish has a foundation of refried rice and beans. These core ingredients are usually embellished with steak, seafood, and eggs as well as seasonal vegetables. 

- Causa: This beautifully presented dish sees a base of mashed yellow potato stacked with shredded tuna, avocado, hard boiled eggs, and olives. The tuna may be substituted for salmon or chicken. The more high-end the restaurant, the more grandiose the presentation! 

- Aji de Gallina: This is a creamy and mildly spicy chicken dish made with yellow chili peppers, and walnuts. It usually includes a token amount of cheese to add to the texture and is served over rice and potatoes. Aji de Gallina is incredibly popular as a lunchtime meal in Peru. 

- Pollo a la Brasa: Another classic Peruvian chicken dish, Pollo a la Brasa sees the poultry marinated in spices and cooked over a wood fire. As with many dishes in Peru, the chicken is served with steamed rice or fries and salad.

- Anticuchos: These grilled and spiced skewers of beef and pork are a popular street food in Peru and other Latin American countries. 

- Rocoto Relleno: These are spicy red rocoto peppers stuffed with a mix of beef, onions, raisins, and cheese baked in the oven. 

Peruvian Pisco 

Pisco is the national drink of Peru. This grape brandy is combined with lime juice, syrup, egg white, and bitters to make the Pisco Sour cocktail. This beverage serves as both an aperitif and a digestif as well as a refreshing pick-me-up between sights. Bear in mind Peruvian bartenders are generous with the measurements and these cocktails are stronger than they appear.

The capital city of Lima is the natural starting point for getting acquainted with Peruvian gastronomy. Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations when you are ready to book your trip to Peru.