Peruvian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its bold flavors, diverse ingredients, and fusion of indigenous and international influences. From the fresh, tangy ceviche to the hearty lomo saltado, Peru’s culinary offerings reflect the country’s rich cultural tapestry. In this guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 dishes that every visitor to Peru should try, each one a delicious taste of Peru’s heritage and creativity.

1. Ceviche – The National Dish of Peru

Ceviche is Peru’s most famous dish and a must-try for any food lover visiting the country. Made with fresh, raw fish marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, cilantro, and spicy aji peppers, ceviche is refreshing and packed with flavor.

  • Origins: Although variations exist across Latin America, Peru claims ceviche as its national dish. Some say the dish has roots in the pre-Inca period, with indigenous people using local citrus fruits to cure fish.
  • Where to Try It: Lima’s coastal restaurants offer some of the best ceviche, with many spots like La Mar Cebichería serving up unique takes on this classic dish.

2. Lomo Saltado – Fusion Peruvian Stir-Fry

Lomo saltado is a fusion of Peruvian and Chinese flavors, combining marinated beef strips, tomatoes, onions, and aji peppers, all stir-fried and served with rice and French fries. This hearty dish is an example of “chifa,” Peru’s unique take on Chinese cuisine.

  • Origins: Chinese immigrants in the 19th century adapted their traditional stir-frying techniques to local ingredients, creating lomo saltado in the process.
  • Recommended Places: Try lomo saltado at El Rinconcito Chino in Lima or any chifa restaurant for an authentic experience.

3. Aji de Gallina – Creamy Chicken Stew

Aji de gallina is a comforting chicken dish with a creamy, spicy sauce made from aji amarillo (yellow chili), milk, cheese, and bread. This dish is typically served over rice and garnished with hard-boiled eggs and olives.

  • Cultural Significance: Aji de gallina is often served at family gatherings and celebrations, making it a beloved comfort food in Peru.
  • Best Spots: Most local restaurants in Lima and Cusco serve this dish, and Panchita in Lima is known for its flavorful version.

4. Anticuchos – Peruvian Street Food Skewers

A favorite among locals, anticuchos are skewers of marinated meat, traditionally made with beef heart, grilled to perfection and served with a spicy sauce. These skewers are often found at street food stalls or casual eateries.

  • History: Anticuchos originated during the colonial period when enslaved Africans created recipes using less popular cuts of meat.
  • Where to Try: Look for anticuchos at food markets like Mercado de Surquillo in Lima, or at local street food stalls in the evening.

5. Rocoto Relleno – Stuffed Peppers with a Kick

Rocoto relleno is a traditional dish from Arequipa, featuring spicy red rocoto peppers stuffed with seasoned ground meat, cheese, and onions, then baked. Rocoto peppers look like bell peppers but pack a serious punch, making this dish ideal for spice lovers.

  • Origin Story: The dish is said to have been inspired by Spanish stuffed peppers but adapted with Peruvian ingredients.
  • Suggested Restaurants: La Nueva Palomino in Arequipa is famous for its authentic rocoto relleno.

6. Causa Rellena – A Layered Potato Delight

Causa rellena is a cold dish made with layers of yellow potato mashed with lime and aji amarillo, then filled with chicken, tuna, or avocado. This dish is often garnished with olives, hard-boiled eggs, and even shrimp for added flavor.

  • Historical Background: Potatoes are native to Peru, and causa rellena celebrates this staple ingredient with a modern twist.
  • Best Place to Try: For a variety of creative causa rellena options, try Canta Rana in the Barranco district of Lima.

7. Papa a la Huancaína – Potatoes in Spicy Cheese Sauce

Papa a la Huancaína is a popular starter, featuring slices of boiled potato topped with a spicy, creamy cheese sauce made with aji amarillo, cheese, milk, and oil. The dish is typically served cold and garnished with boiled eggs and olives.

  • Origins: This dish originated in the Huancayo region and was later adapted into mainstream Peruvian cuisine.
  • Where to Try It: You can find papa a la Huancaína at most Peruvian restaurants, as it’s a staple starter dish.

8. Pollo a la Brasa – Peruvian Rotisserie Chicken

Pollo a la brasa is a mouthwatering rotisserie chicken, marinated with garlic, spices, and soy sauce, then cooked over an open flame for a smoky, flavorful finish. Served with fries and salad, it’s a favorite comfort food among Peruvians.

  • Cultural Impact: This dish is so popular that National Pollo a la Brasa Day is celebrated in Peru each July.
  • Top Places: Pardos Chicken and La Leña in Lima are highly recommended for their delicious pollo a la brasa.

9. Tiradito – Peruvian Sashimi with a Twist

Similar to ceviche but without the onions, tiradito is a dish of thinly sliced raw fish topped with a spicy sauce made from lime and aji amarillo. Tiradito reflects the Nikkei influence in Peru, blending Japanese and Peruvian flavors.

  • Japanese Influence: Japanese immigrants in the early 20th century introduced sashimi-style dishes, which were adapted into the local cuisine to create tiradito.
  • Where to Find It: Many of Lima’s top seafood restaurants serve tiradito, with Maido offering an innovative Nikkei version.

10. Picarones – Peru’s Sweet Treat

Picarones are a sweet and crispy treat made from a dough of squash and sweet potato, deep-fried and served with a syrup made from chancaca (Peruvian molasses). Picarones are often enjoyed as a dessert or an afternoon snack.

  • Historical Influence: Picarones were created during the colonial era as a Peruvian version of Spanish buñuelos, using local ingredients like sweet potato and squash.
  • Where to Taste: Try picarones at Parque Kennedy in Miraflores or at Picarones Mary in Barranco for a traditional experience.

Practical Tips for Dining in Peru

  1. Don’t Miss Street Food: Peruvian street food offers some of the most authentic and affordable experiences. From anticuchos to picarones, you’ll find a variety of treats sold by vendors throughout the cities.
  2. Be Mindful of Spice: Peruvians love spicy food, but not every dish is fiery. Ask about spice levels if you’re sensitive to heat, especially with dishes like rocoto relleno.
  3. Try Local Drinks: Pair your meal with a pisco sour, Peru’s national cocktail, or a chicha morada, a sweet, purple corn drink commonly served at restaurants.

Conclusion: Embark on a Culinary Adventure in Peru

From tangy ceviche to the rich, creamy flavors of aji de gallina, Peruvian cuisine is an exciting journey through history and flavor. Peru’s food offers something for every palate, with dishes that reflect the country’s diverse regions and cultural influences. So when you visit Peru, make sure to dive into its culinary world by trying these top 10 dishes—you won’t be disappointed!

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