This is the top 10 of the most irresistible Peruvian dishes. Embark on the culinary journey of Peruvian cuisine. Every dish that made it here, is a showstopper.
Peru’s gastronomy is delectable and varied. From savory to sweet, there’s something for everyone, even picky eaters. We’ve handpicked the top 10 must-try dishes.
You should look for these ones when visiting a Peruvian restaurant. Or if you visit Peru, maybe try them with us. Our menu offers some of these amazing meals.
1. Ceviche: Peru’s Signature Seafood Delight
Ceviche stands as the most iconic dish of Peruvian seafood. Fresh, zesty, and vibrant. This dish combines fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices.
Red onions, cilantro, and chili peppers add depth and complexity. The acidity of the lime “cooks” the fish. A good ceviche is tender, flavorful, and a little spicy.
Variations use different types of seafood like trout, sea bass, shrimp, etc. What should not vary is the companion. Ceviche should come with toasted andean corn and sweet potato. They add a touch of sweetness and crunch.
Perfect for hot summer days, ceviche offers a refreshing taste. Whether at a beachside shack or a fine dining restaurant, ceviche shines. It’s a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Peruvian food.
2. Lomo Saltado: Stir-Fried Beef Perfection
Lomo Saltado showcases the fusion at the heart of Peruvian dishes. This stir-fried beef dish marries local flavors with Asian influence from immigrants. The meat, onions, tomatoes, french fries, and aji peppers blend harmoniously. Soy sauce and vinegar add a punch of umami.
Served traditionally with fluffy white rice and crispy fries, it offers a satisfying texture contrast. Each bite delivers a burst of savory, slightly sweet juices. It’s a beloved staple in Peruvian cuisine, adored by everyone. Even picky eaters find it comforting.
Lomo Saltado has gained international fame, representing Peruvian dishes on global menus. It appeals to those seeking a hearty, flavorful meal. It’s a unifying dish served everywhere.
3. Aji de Gallina: Creamy Chicken Comfort
Aji de Gallina is a creamy chicken stew among Peruvian dishes. It comforts and satisfices. Blending shredded chicken with a rich, spicy sauce is the soul of it.
The sauce, thickened with crackers, gets its color from aji amarillo. Nuts and cheese make it rich and creamy. Aji de Gallina is a celebration of Peruvian culinary traditions, making extensive use of local ingredients.
Garnished with a boiled egg and black olives, it’s a feast for the eyes. Served next to white rice, it ensures a filling meal. This dish exemplifies the comfort and complexity of Peruvian dishes.
Aji de Gallina stands out for its creamy texture and comforting warmth. It invites diners to explore the richness of Peruvian cuisine. Dive into this dish for a taste of Peru’s culinary heritage, crafted from cherished Peruvian ingredients.
4. Rocoto Relleno: Spicy Stuffed Peppers
Rocoto Relleno lights up the table with its vibrant colors and flavors. Traditionally a companion of special dishes like Lechon or Cuy, by its own still shines. Locals enjoy it alone like street food.
At its heart, the rocoto pepper, unique to Perut. Chefs stuff these peppers with a savory mix of ground beef, onions, carrots, garlic, and spices. The filling, rich and hearty, contrasts beautifully with the rocoto’s sweetness and spice.
Topped with a simplified egg souffle and baked until golden, Rocoto Relleno is a sight to behold. This combination of flavors and textures showcases the creativity of Peruvian cuisine. Rocoto Relleno embodies the essence of Peruvian dishes: bold, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
5. Pollo a la Brasa: Charcoal-Grilled Chicken Magic
Pollo a la Brasa is the undisputed king of Peruvian fast food. It can be as humble or as Fancy as you want. But do not dismiss it for being fast food, probably is one of the best options you can find. It is the Peruvian take on rotisserie chicken.
Marinated with Peruvian condiments and spices. Cooked slowly over an open fire. Served alongside golden french fries. Pollo a la Brasa offers a comforting, complete meal.
The result is a juicy, flavorful chicken. There is a touch of smokiness. The chicken meat should be savory. The fries add texture and subtleness.
Across Peru and beyond, Pollo a la Brasa holds a special place in people’s hearts. This dish has crossed borders. Its universal appeal lies in the magic of charcoal grilling and the harmony of its accompaniments. Dive into this dish for an authentic taste of Peru’s culinary excellence.
6. Anticuchos: Grilled Heart Skewers
Anticuchos, grilled heart skewers, that define the late night food scene. Skewered beef hearts, marinated in a vibrant blend of spices. They then go to the grill. The result is tender, juicy, and bursting with smoky goodness.
Originating from street vendors, anticuchos are a popular nighttime snack. Boiled potatoes are the typical companion. This combination of flavors and textures makes anticuchos a must-try.
Anticuchos hold a special place in the heart of Peruvian cuisine. They come from really humble origins. Considered by the ruling class of the past, as peasant food. The heart and organ meat were not desirable.
The humble people made it a delicious staple food. This Peruvian dish proves that there are no bad ingredients in the right hands.
7. Papa a la Huancaína: Potatoes in Spicy Cheese Sauce
Papa a la Huancaína is a classic dish that shines within Peruvian dishes. It features boiled potatoes bathed in a spicy cheesy aji amarillo sauce. This sauce, a creamy blend of cheese, aji amarillo, eggs, and milk, is the heart of the dish. The aji amarillo provides a gentle heat, while the cheese adds a rich depth.
Traditionally served cold, this dish is a refreshing appetizer or side. It contrasts the warmth of boiled potatoes with the cool, creamy sauce. Garnished with a sliced boiled egg and olives, it presents beautifully on any table.
Papa a la Huancaína embodies the simplicity and elegance of Peruvian cuisine. It utilizes staple Peruvian ingredients to create a dish that’s both comforting and interesting.
8. Causa Rellena: Layered Potato Casserole
Causa Rellena is one of the most beloved Peruvian dishes. Also it is pretty unique. Offering layers of flavor and texture. This dish combines smashed boiled potatoes, aji amarillo, lime juice, jinger, and various fillings.
The potatoes mixed with the seasons make a vibrant base. This spicy and citrusy foundation is put in layers with chicken, tuna, or vegetables.
The dish is often garnished with boiled egg and olives, adding richness and depth. For balance some include mayonnaise on top. Served cold, Causa Rellena is both refreshing and satisfying. In Peru it is a popular choice for lunch or as an appetizer.
This dish showcases the creativity of Peruvian cuisine, turning simple ingredients into an elegant and complex dish. Causa Rellena embodies the spirit of Peruvian cooking, where tradition meets innovation. Its colorful presentation and layers of flavor make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
9. Arroz con Pato: Flavorful Duck and Rice
Arroz con Pato is a vibrant highlight in the world of Peruvian dishes. This flavorful duck and rice dish marries succulent duck with aromatic herbs and spices. Cooked in a rich seasoned stock, the rice absorbs the essence of the duck, creating a deeply flavorful base.
The dish gets its unique color and taste from cilantro, giving it a bright green color. Each bite of Arroz con Pato is a blend of tender duck and fragrant rice, offering a symphony of flavors. It’s a testament to the richness of Peruvian cuisine, showcasing the skillful use of local ingredients.
Arroz con Pato has roots in the northern regions of Peru, where it’s a culinary treasure. It reflects the diversity of Peruvian dishes, blending indigenous and Spanish influences. Served with a side of salsa criolla, it balances the richness of the duck perfectly.
10. Picarones: Sweet Potato and Pumpkin Doughnuts
Picarones are a delightful twist on doughnuts, making them a cherished dessert in the realm of Peruvian dishes. Crafted from sweet potato and pumpkin, these treats are deep fried to golden perfection. The batter, enriched with eggs and milk, creates a thin crispy exterior and an interior that is mostly air.
Served as street food, picarones embody the joy of Peruvian cuisine. They’re typically outdoor food, drenched in a sweet, syrupy sauce. This sauce, made from chancaca (unrefined sugar), spices, and orange zest. The combination of savory dough and sweet syrup makes picarones a unique culinary experience.
Picarones stand out among Peruvian dishes for their use of native ingredients. Sweet potato and pumpkin give these doughnuts a distinct taste and a nutritious boost. They’re not just treats; they’re a celebration of Peru’s agricultural bounty.
As a beloved snack or dessert, picarones bring smiles to faces across Peru. They capture the essence of Peruvian street food: simple, delicious, and made with love. Delve into this dish for an unforgettable journey into Peruvian cuisine.
