Dive into Peru’s landscapes, folklore and cuisine

Discover a whole new side of Peru! Famous for its Inca heritage and legendary landscapes, from the historic centre of Lima to Machupicchu, Peru also stands out for the richness of its cuisine. In fact, Peruvian food is among the most diverse and celebrated in the world, prized for its freshness and shaped by Inca, European, African and Asian influences.

1. Cebiche peruano

Your culinary journey begins with the country’s signature dish: “cebiche”. This traditional recipe is made with raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus. The marinade is nicknamed leche de tigre (tiger’s milk), a nod both to its milky texture and to the punch it packs on the palate.

According to legend, this recipe trace its origins to the Tallán civilization, when raw fish was traditionally eaten with its marinade. It wasn’t until the last century that the recipe evolved: citrus and fish were no longer the only ingredients, joined by onion, sweet potato, corn, lettuce, chopped cilantro and seaweed, giving cebiche the identity we know today.

Cebiche is even celebrated every 28 June, having become a true symbol of Peruvian culture.

2. Lomo saltado

Your discovery of Peruvian flavors continues with “lomo saltado”, a traditional dish that reflects the country’s culinary wealth and its Chinese influences (the chifa tradition). Strips of beef are stir-fried in a wok and typically served with tomatoes, onions, French fries and a sauce made with soy sauce and ají amarillo. Every bite is an explosion of flavour!

3. Ají de gallina

Savour the famous “ají de gallina”, a rich, spicy and wonderfully comforting dish, and another Peruvian classic born of the country’s culinary heritage. Let yourself be tempted by this creamy blend of shredded chicken, chili (ají amarillo), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and ground walnuts. What are you waiting for?

4. Causa limeña

Continue your gastronomic tour with “causa limeña”, a cold specialty made of layered, ultra-smooth yellow potato purée seasoned with lime and yellow chili (ají amarillo). The potato base is beautifully melting, with a gentle tangy sweetness on the palate.

The recipe originated in Lima, where the traditional version is usually filled with shredded chicken in mayonnaise and avocado. Over time it has evolved, and today you’ll find equally delicious versions made with tuna, seafood or crab.

5. Pollo a la brasa

Discover “pollo a la brasa”, a hugely popular dish that is, quite simply, roast chicken. It requires several hours of marinating, mainly in soy sauce, garlic, local spices and beer. Much like this resting time, the cooking is slow too, keeping the meat incredibly tender.

Head to a pollería, a restaurant specialising in chicken, for the full experience. The dish is served with French fries and a creamy ají verde sauce.

6. Anticuchos

Discover Peruvian street food with “anticuchos”, the country’s classic grilled skewers. These are skewers of beef heart marinated in a mix of ají panca, vinegar, garlic and spices such as cumin. The meat is beautifully tender, and you’ll no doubt be tempted to go back for more! For the most authentic experience, enjoy them from a traditional street cart.

7. Papa a la huancaína

Your culinary adventure continues with “papa a la huancaína”, a cold starter bursting with flavor. This traditional dish is made of sliced potatoes coated in “huancaína” sauce, a creamy blend of fresh cheese, milk and chili (ají amarillo). It’s a refreshing starter you’ll want to try on your visit to Peru.

8. Rocoto relleno

Among all of Peru’s specialities, you can’t miss “rocoto relleno”, a stuffed pepper dish. More precisely, it’s a chilli (the rocoto) filled with a mixture of meat, onions and spices, then topped with melted cheese. This spicy dish is the signature of Arequipa, a city nestled among three volcanoes that frame a spectacular landscape.

9. Cuy

When you think of Peru, you probably also think of the traditional recipes that come straight from the Andes. “Cuy” (guinea pig), known throughout the country, is a traditional dish of fried meat with a particularly crispy skin, served with capchi, a mildly spiced local white cheese that lends the meat a creamy taste.

Cuy is eaten on special occasions, such as festivals or family gatherings, as it’s above all a convivial dish that symbolises abundance and well-being in Andean culture.

10. Picarones

Finally, don’t miss “picarones”, the country’s sweet specialty. Recognizable by their ring shape, these doughnuts are made with sweet potato and squash, two naturally sweet vegetables. They’re served with a cane sugar syrup infused with cinnamon and citrus. The perfect sweet note to round off your culinary journey!

Ready to taste Peru?

All that’s left is to pack your bags and savor these dishes for yourself. And to take your journey well beyond the plate, discover all the things to do on a trip to Peru: book your flight and let every bite take you by surprise!