7 Traditional Peruvian Foods You Must Try

Peru is a land of many contrasts, from the soaring peaks of the Andes to the endlessly hot deserts of the coast. This diverse landscape can be mirrored in the country’s cuisine, which draws on influences from both native and Spanish traditions. Peruvian cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients, diverse flavors, and regional specialties. 

Suppose you’re looking to spice up your palette and explore other cuisines. In that case, here are seven must-try traditional Peruvian dishes you shouldn’t miss.

• Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a traditional Peruvian dish that features beef, tomatoes, onions, and other spices. The ingredients are stir-fried together and typically served with rice and french fries. While this is usually made with beef, it can also be cooked with chicken or pork.  

If you’re looking for a delicious Peruvian treat, perhaps on your upcoming visit to Peru, or should you visit a Peruvian restaurant, Lomo Saltado can be a great option.

• Ceviche

Ceviche is another traditional Peruvian delicacy typically made with fresh fish or seafood. The seafood is cooked in citrus juice, which gives it a light and refreshing flavor. It is often served with a side of rice or potatoes, and you can garnish it with onions, peppers, and cilantro. While it may sound simple, ceviche can also be a complex dish and may require skill and patience to prepare correctly. As such, it’s often considered to be a special-occasion dish. 

However, if you’re lucky enough to try ceviche, you will quickly see why it’s so beloved in Peru. A restaurant latino paris serves the best Peruvian food in the city. The perfect balance of flavors can make it an irresistible dish that you’ll want to savor repeatedly.

• Aji De Gallina

Another must-try Peruvian dish you wouldn’t want to miss is Aji de Gallina. It is made with chicken, potatoes, and a creamy nut sauce. The dish is often served over white rice and can be garnished with chopped hard-boiled eggs, green onions, and cilantro. While the exact origins of aji de gallina are unknown, the dish is thought to date back to the colonial era.  

These days, it’s one of the most popular Peruvian comfort food, and you can find it on menus all over the country. So, if you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, try aji de gallina the next time you travel to Peru, and surely you won’t be disappointed.

• Juane

Juane is a Peruvian dish consisting of rice, chicken, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, wrapped in bijao leaves. It is traditionally enjoyed during the feast of San Juan by the locals but is still served all year. 

While the exact origins of juane are unknown, it may be clear that this dish has been part of Peru’s culinary heritage for centuries. Today, juane is enjoyed by people from all walks of life, and it remains one of the country’s most beloved staples.

• Arroz Con Pato

Arroz Con Pato, or duck with rice, is a classic Peruvian dish that combines rice, duck, and a variety of herbs and spices. It is traditionally made with white rice, but you can also use brown rice. Duck meat is cooked in a flavorful broth and then placed on top of the seasoned rice. A variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, and pepper, are used to flavor the dish. 

• Pollo a la Brasa

Pollo A la Brasa is another popular chicken dish in Peru. The chicken is marinated in a special blend of spices and herbs and then slow-cooked over an open fire, resulting in a moist, juicy chicken with crispy skin. Pollo A la Brasa is typically served with a side of potatoes and a salad.

Today, Pollo A la Brasa has become popular in other parts of South America and the world. If you have never tried Pollo A la Brasa, you might be missing out on a true Peruvian culinary delight!

• Mazamorra Morada

Another traditional Peruvian food you may want to try is Mazamorra Morada. This popular dessert is made with purple corn, fruits, cinnamon, and cloves, thickened by sweet potato starch. The rich, sweet flavor of Mazamorra Morada comes from the combination of different spices and the natural sweetness of purple corn. This dish is typically served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold, making it a refreshing treat on a hot day. 

This deep-purple-colored dessert can please your palette whether you’re looking for a unique holiday dessert or a simply delicious treat.

Wrapping Up

These are just a few of the many traditional Peruvian foods that you should try. Each dish has its unique flavor and history. And by trying these dishes, you can gain a deeper understanding of Peruvian culture and cuisine. So, the next time you’re in Peru or you visit a Peruvian restaurant, make sure to try and taste one of these delicious treats!