Peruvian food is a treasure trove of flavors in Central America. It’s one of the must things to do in Peru. Earlier, we have shared the traditional Peruvian non-alcoholic drinks and alcoholic beverages as well.
And in this post, you’ll discover the best traditional Peruvian food dishes you must try. From classic dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado to more obscure delicacies like cuy chactado and rocoto relleno, we will show you the best culinary hilights Of Peru.
Experience the authentic flavors of Peru’s most popular and traditional dishes by joining our food tours with Hello Peru Tours, one of the top tour operators in Peru. You also would love to visit the best restaurants in Lima, Peru.
Sounds delicious? Let’s eat!
Peru is a country with a rich and diverse culinary history. From the Andes Mountains to the Amazon rainforest, each region has its own unique cuisine that reflects the local ingredients and cultures.
Over the centuries, Peruvian dishes has also been influenced by immigrants from Europe, Africa, and Asia. This fusion of flavors has created a truly unique cuisine that is both delicious and exciting.
Ceviche is like a party for your taste buds! Imagine the freshest fish or seafood, diced into bite-sized pieces, and marinated in zesty lime juice. The citric acid from the limes “cooks” the fish, turning it beautifully tender.
But that’s not all – this dish gets even more exciting with the addition of onions, cilantro, and a touch of spicy rocoto peppers.
The result? A burst of flavors that’s as refreshing as a sea breeze. Whether you’re by the coast or craving a taste of it, ceviche is a must-try Peruvian delight.
Best Peruvian food Lomo Saltado is like a cultural mixtape of flavors! It’s tender beef strips sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and colorful bell peppers. But here’s where it gets really interesting – these delicious components are brought together with a touch of soy sauce.
Oh, and let’s not forget about the crispy French fries that are thrown into the mix. It’s a culinary dance of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.
Pollo a La Brasa is a grill master’s dream come true! It’s a succulent Peruvian chicken marinated in a secret blend of spices, then roasted to juicy perfection on a rotisserie. The skin turns crispy and flavorful, while the meat stays tender and oh-so-delicious.
It’s often served with a side of golden fries or a fresh salad, making it a beloved meal for families and friends to share. With its mouthwatering aroma and incredible taste, Pollo a La Brasa is like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Aji De Gallina is one of the best Peruvian food dishes with a fiery twist! Imagine tender shredded chicken bathing in a creamy sauce that’s both comforting and slightly spicy. It’s often served over steamed rice and garnished with olives and hard-boiled eggs.
The magic ingredient here is the aji amarillo pepper, which adds a vibrant color and a unique kick to the dish. This creamy concoction combines the flavors of the pepper with a touch of bread and evaporated milk.
Anticuchos are the best Peruvian culinary highlight on a stick! Imagine skewers of marinated beef heart, grilled to smoky perfection. These little flavor bombs are often enjoyed as street food, and they come with a zesty dipping sauce known as “anticuchera.”
Seco De Carne is one of the best Peruvian food dishes made with tender chunks of beef, slow-cooked to perfection in a fragrant cilantro-based sauce. The result is a stew that’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-comforting. Served with fluffy white rice and creamy beans, this dish is a celebration of hearty goodness.
Tiradito De Pescado is a culinary masterpiece in Peru that comes straight from the sea! It’s a thinly sliced fresh fish, delicately marinated in zesty lime juice and seasoned with just a touch of aji amarillo peppers.
The dish is similar to sashimi but with a Peruvian twist. The flavors are bright and invigorating, capturing the essence of the ocean. Garnished with colorful vegetables and a sprinkle of cilantro, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Cuy Chactado is a dish that’s not for the faint of heart, but definitely for the adventurous foodies! It’s a whole guinea pig, marinated and fried to a crispy, golden perfection. The meat is flavorful and tender, with a unique taste that’s all its own.
Rocoto Relleno is made with spicy rocoto peppers, stuffed with a mixture of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
The peppers are baked until tender, and a layer of melted cheese on top adds a gooey touch of indulgence. Each bite is a combination of heat, savory goodness, and that unmistakable cheesy pull.
Arroz Con Mariscos is a plate of perfectly cooked rice infused with the essence of shellfish – shrimp, squid, mussels, and more. The rice is seasoned with a medley of herbs and spices, creating a symphony of taste that’s both vibrant and comforting.
Pachamanca is a culinary journey into the heart of tradition! Imagine meats, potatoes, and vegetables marinated with aromatic herbs, then cooked to perfection using hot stones buried underground.
The combination of flavors is truly magical, with each ingredient infused with the smoky charm of the stones. Pachamanca is more than a meal – it’s a celebration of ancient cooking techniques and the bond between nature and food.
Adobo is tender chunks of pork marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, aji panca chili, and tangy vinegar. The meat absorbs the rich flavors, becoming succulent and oh-so-delicious.
Slow-cooked to perfection, Adobo is Peruvian comfort food that’s both hearty and satisfying. And it’s served with rice, beans, and often a side of sweet potatoes.
Leche De Tigre is like a shot of invigorating flavor! The zesty, tangy marinade left behind after making ceviche – that’s Leche De Tigre, also known as “Tiger’s Milk.”
This concoction is a blend of lime juice, fish juices, aji peppers, and a touch of garlic. It’s believed to be an aphrodisiac and a cure for hangovers – talk about a powerful elixir!
Jalea is a crispy, flavorful Peruvian seafood feast! It’s an assortment of fresh seafood – fish, shrimp, calamari – coated in a light batter and deep-fried until golden and crunchy.
The result is a platter of seafood goodness that’s both satisfying and addictive. Jalea is often served with yuca fries and a tangy salsa criolla, adding a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the fried seafood.
Papa a La Huancaina is a burst of flavor made with boiled yellow potatoes covered in a creamy, spicy cheese sauce. And the sauce is made from aji amarillo peppers.
The sauce is velvety and rich, with a touch of heat that complements the mildness of the potatoes. The dish is often garnished with hard-boiled eggs, olives, and lettuce, creating a harmonious blend of colors and tastes.
Tequeños are like little bites of cheesy heaven! Imagine golden, crispy pastry tubes filled with gooey, melted cheese. These addictive treats are often served as appetizers or party snacks in Peru.
They’re the perfect combination of textures – crunchy on the outside and delightfully cheesy on the inside. Dip them in a spicy sauce for an extra kick of flavor. It’s one of the hottest Peruvian food dishes without a doubt.
Picarones are the stuff of sweet dreams! Imagine soft, pillowy donuts made from a blend of sweet potato and squash, deep-fried to a golden perfection. They’re drizzled with a molasses-based syrup that adds a rich, indulgent sweetness.
Picarones strike a delightful balance between the earthy flavors of the vegetables and the sugary allure of the syrup. These beloved culinary treats are a true celebration of Peruvian cuisine with a sweet twist.
Alfajores are like a hug in cookie form! It’s two delicate cookies sandwiched together with a velvety layer of caramel-like dulce de leche. The cookies are often dusted with powdered sugar, adding an elegant touch to these delectable treats.
Mazamorra Morada and Arroz Con Leche are a Peruvian dessert duet that dances on your taste buds! It’s a comforting purple corn pudding, flavored with spices like cinnamon and clove – that’s Mazamorra Morada.
Individually, these desserts are delightful, but together, they create a symphony of textures and tastes that’s both soothing and indulgent.
Causa Rellena is a masterpiece of layering! It’s a Peruvian dish that combines seasoned mashed potatoes with layers of flavorful fillings – think avocado, chicken, or seafood. The layers are often bound together with a zesty mayo-based sauce.
Cau Cau is a dish for the adventurous eaters out there! Imagine tender cattle tripe cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. We make this Peruvian sauce with aji amarillo peppers, onions, and spices.
Cau Cau creates a flavorful symphony that complements the unique texture of the tripe. It’s served with potatoes and often a side of rice.
Sopa Seca is one of the most casual Peruvian cuisine dishes. The noodles are cooked in a flavorful broth until they absorb all the goodness.
Often made with a mix of chicken, vegetables, and spices, Sopa Seca is a dish that offers the satisfaction of a warm and flavorful meal. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a culinary hug after a long day.
Arroz Chaufa is a fluffy rice stir-fried with a medley of vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat – often chicken or shrimp. The dish is flavored with soy sauce and a touch of ginger, giving it a distinctive oriental twist.
Carapulcra is one of the best food dishes in Peru that’s all about robust flavors! It’s tender pieces of chicken and minced pork cooked in a rich sauce made from dried potatoes (papa seca) and a blend of spices.
Carapulcra is often enjoyed with a side of rice and garnished with peanuts or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s a taste of comfort that warms you from the inside out.
Arroz con Pollo is a classic dish that feels like a warm hug from grandma! Imagine tender pieces of chicken cooked with a medley of vegetables, all nestled in a bed of flavorful rice. The dish is often seasoned with a touch of cumin and aji amarillo peppers, creating a harmonious blend of spices. Arroz con Pollo is a beloved comfort food that brings families together around the dinner table.
Chicharron is the ultimate indulgence for pork lovers! Imagine succulent pieces of pork rind, deep-fried until crispy and golden. The result is a delightful snack that’s both crunchy and flavorful.
Chicharron is often served with sweet potatoes, yuca, or corn, creating a perfect balance between the richness of the pork and the freshness of the sides. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a meal, Chicharron is a true treat for your taste buds.
Juane is like a culinary gift wrapped in a banana leaf! When making it, the tender pieces of chicken and rice are mixed with olives, hard-boiled eggs, and aromatic spices. This mixture is then wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed to perfection.
The result is a bundle of flavor and goodness that’s both visually appealing and delicious. Juane is often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations, making it a tasty and joyful Peruvian dish.
Tacacho is a dish that celebrates the humble banana! It’s made with ripe bananas mashed with crispy bits of pork, creating a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The mixture is shaped into balls and roasted until golden and crispy.
Tacacho is often served with a side of cecina (dried pork) or chorizo, adding even more layers of flavor to this unique dish. It’s a celebration of simplicity and ingenuity in Peruvian cuisine.
Capchi de Setas is a dish for the mushroom enthusiasts out there! It’s a hearty Peruvian stew made with a variety of mushrooms, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. The result is a flavorful medley of earthy tastes that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Capchi de Setas is often enjoyed during colder months, offering warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this dish is a true mushroom lover’s delight.
Chiriuchu is on of the best food dishes for a party on a plate! Imagine an assortment of meats – think chicken, beef, and pork – served alongside potatoes, corn, and a variety of condiments.
The dish is often garnished with a rocoto pepper, creating a burst of color and heat. It’s a celebration of flavors and textures, offering a little bit of everything in each bite.
Guiso de Tarwi is a hearty stew made with tarwi, a legume native to the Andes. The tarwi is soaked and cooked until tender, then combined with a flavorful mix of vegetables, spices, and often a touch of meat.
The result is a dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying, showcasing the rich flavors of the region. Guiso de Tarwi is a reminder of the diverse ingredients that make up Peruvian cuisine.
Trucha Frita is one of the best Peruvian seafood dishes that celebrates the bounty of freshwater streams! Imagine a whole trout, seasoned and deep-fried until crispy and golden. The skin becomes delightfully crunchy, while the flesh remains tender and flavorful.
Trucha Frita is often served with a side of rice and a vibrant salsa criolla, adding a burst of freshness to the dish. With its clean and delicate taste, this dish is a true catch from the waters of Peru.
Sango de Camarones is a symphony of flavors from the sea! It’s a creamy Peruvian soup brimming with plump shrimp, rice, and vegetables. The broth is infused with the essence of shrimp, creating a taste that’s both rich and invigorating.
Sango de Camarones is often enjoyed during cooler months, offering warmth and comfort in each spoonful. It’s a dish that brings the coastal flavors of Peru to your bowl.
Chupe de Camarones is like a warm hug from the coast! Imagine a creamy chowder loaded with succulent shrimp, potatoes, and corn. The broth is rich and comforting, often flavored with aji amarillo peppers and a touch of cheese.
Served with a hard-boiled egg on top, Chupe de Camarones is a dish that captures the essence of coastal Peru. It’s a celebration of Peruvian seafood and creamy indulgence.
Sopa a la Criolla is a hearty creole soup made with a beef-based broth, noodles, and a medley of vegetables. The broth is rich and flavorful, often enhanced with a touch of tomato and aji amarillo peppers.
Sopa a la Criolla is Peruvian casual cuisine that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. With every spoonful, you’ll feel like you’re getting a warm hug from the kitchen.
Humintas are a mixture of fresh corn, spices, and a touch of cheese, all wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection.
The result is a tamale-like treat that’s both sweet and savory. Humitas are often enjoyed as a snack or a side dish, offering a taste of the Andean countryside. With their fluffy texture and delightful taste, these little bundles of joy are hard to resist.
Olluquito con Charqui is one of the less known Peruvian food that brings the Andean spirit to the table! It’s made with olluco, a root vegetable, cooked with dried meat and a flavorful sauce. It’s a tribute to the ingredients of the Andes!
Papas Rellenas are mashed potatoes stuffed with a mixture of seasoned meat, onions, and olives, then shaped into balls and fried until golden. The result is a crispy shell that gives way to a savory and flavorful filling.Papas Rellenas are often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, offering a delightful burst of taste in every bite.
Chuño Cola is a taste of tradition from the Andes! Imagine a stew made with chuño, dehydrated potatoes that have been soaked and rehydrated.The chuño adds a unique texture to the dish, and it’s cooked with a blend of flavorful spices and often a touch of meat.
Let’s talk about vegan and vegetarian culinary options in Peru now.
Tacu Tacu is like a delicious second chance for leftovers! It’s a mix of rice and beans sautéed until crispy, creating a flavorful “cake” that’s both hearty and satisfying.
This Peruvian dish is a perfect example of turning humble ingredients into something extraordinary. Tacu Tacu is often served with a juicy steak or seafood, topped with a fried egg for that extra touch of indulgence.
Peruvian Vegetarian Causa is a vegeterian culinary masterpiece that celebrates the flavors of the Andes! It’s made with layers of seasoned mashed potatoes, infused with zesty lime juice and aji amarillo pepper.
Between these layers, you’ll find a delightful filling made from ingredients like avocado, olives, and vegetables.
Papa A La Huancaina is a creamy dish that’s boiled yellow potatoes drizzled with a velvety sauce made from aji amarillo peppers, creamy cheese, and a touch of nuts.
The sauce is rich and slightly spicy, adding a layer of indulgence to the mildness of the potatoes. With its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors, Papa A La Huancaina is a must-have Peruvian vegetarian delight.
Peruvian Vegan Quinoa is a fluffy quinoa cooked to perfection and mixed with a medley of colorful vegetables. The dish is often seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, creating a burst of flavors that’s both nourishing and delicious.
Solterito is a Peruvian vegeterian salad that’s as vibrant as it is flavorful! It’s a mix of fresh vegetables, like corn, beans, tomatoes, and onions, tossed with a zesty dressing.
This Peruvian vegetarian dish is full of colors and textures, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. The name “Solterito” translates to “single,” suggesting that this salad is so delightful, it’s fit for someone who’s content on their own.
Let me answer a few most frequently questions about Peruvian cuisine now.
Yes, Peruvian food can be spicy, but not all dishes are extremely spicy. Some dishes might have a mild kick of spice, while others can be quite hot. It depends on the dish and your personal preference for spiciness.
A typical meal in Peru includes a dish called “ceviche,” which is made from fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in lime or lemon juice, along with onions, cilantro, and other seasonings. Another popular dish is “lomo saltado,” which is a stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries, often served with rice.
Peruvians usually eat dinner between 7:00 PM and 10:00 PM. However, dinner is often smaller because they have a quick snack or lonche around 5:30 PM. Lonche could be something like a sandwich, empanada, tamal, or juane. This snack keeps them satisfied until their dinner later in the evening.
The most famous Peruvian meal must be ceviche. More popular main courses in Peru include soups, lomo saltado (a stir-fry), ají de gallina (chicken stew), pollo a la brasa (roast chicken), tacu tacu (bean and rice dish), and arroz con pollo (chicken with rice).
One must-try Peruvian dessert is “Picarones.” These are like sweet donuts made from pumpkin dough. They’re fried until golden and served with a delicious molasses syrup. They’re popular and very tasty, especially if you have a sweet tooth.
Yes, there are some great vegetarian food options in Peru! For example, you can try “Papa a la Huancaina,”, boiled potatoes with a spicy cheese sauce. Also, taste “Choclo con Queso”, fresh corn with cheese, a simple yet tasty treat. You can also find vegetable-based soups and dishes in many restaurants.
If you want to eat the most popular and traditional Peruvian food dishes, you should definitely book our food tours in Peru with Hello Peru Tours
