Discover the ultimate Peruvian Food Guide with 15 traditional dishes you must try, from ceviche to lomo saltado. Taste the flavors of Peru!
Why Peruvian Food Is World-Renowned
In fact, Lima is often referred to as the “gastronomic capital of Latin America,” home to award-winning restaurants and celebrated chefs. But the real magic of Peruvian food lies in its street vendors, family-run eateries, and traditional markets, where recipes are passed down through generations.
Ceviche: The National Dish of Peru
No visit to Peru is complete without tasting ceviche. Made with raw fish marinated in freshly squeezed lime juice, spiced with chili peppers, and served with onions, sweet potato, and corn, it’s a refreshing yet bold dish.
Ceviche is best enjoyed on the coast, especially in Lima, where local chefs prepare it with just-caught seafood. Each region adds its own twist—some include mixed seafood, others serve it with fried calamari. For Peruvians, ceviche is more than food; it’s a symbol of national pride.Lomo Saltado and Other Iconic Mains
Lomo saltado is a perfect example of Peru’s cultural fusion. This stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce, served with rice and French fries, reflects the influence of Chinese immigrants. It’s one of the most beloved comfort foods in the country.
Other must-try mains include ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew flavored with yellow chili peppers, and seco de cordero, a slow-cooked lamb dish seasoned with cilantro. These hearty meals showcase the variety of Peruvian home cooking.
Lomo Saltado and Other Iconic Mains
Lomo saltado is a perfect example of Peru’s cultural fusion. This stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce, served with rice and French fries, reflects the influence of Chinese immigrants. It’s one of the most beloved comfort foods in the country.
Other must-try mains include ají de gallina, a creamy chicken stew flavored with yellow chili peppers, and seco de cordero, a slow-cooked lamb dish seasoned with cilantro. These hearty meals showcase the variety of Peruvian home cooking.
Street Food and Everyday Favorites
Beyond fine dining, Peru’s streets are filled with flavors that locals enjoy daily. Anticuchos, skewers of marinated beef heart grilled to perfection, are a popular street snack often served with spicy sauces. Papa rellena, mashed potatoes stuffed with meat and fried golden brown, is another classic.
Even breakfast has its unique touches, with dishes like tamales wrapped in banana leaves or pan con chicharrón, a crispy pork sandwich paired with sweet potato. Exploring street food is the best way to experience Peru’s authentic food culture.
Desserts and Sweet Traditions
Peru also has a sweet side. Suspiro a la limeña, a creamy caramel-based dessert topped with meringue, is one of Lima’s most famous treats. Picarones, pumpkin-and-squash doughnuts drizzled with molasses syrup, are often enjoyed at fairs and family gatherings.
Traditional sweets reflect colonial influences as well as local creativity. From rice pudding flavored with cinnamon to purple corn pudding known as mazamorra morada, Peruvian desserts are comforting, colorful, and full of history.
Drinks That Complete the Experience
No Peruvian food guide is complete without its signature drinks. The pisco sour, made with grape brandy, lime juice, and egg white, is the national cocktail and a must-try for visitors. For a non-alcoholic option, chicha morada, a sweet beverage made from purple corn, is refreshing and unique.
Beer lovers should try Cusqueña, a popular local brand, while adventurous travelers can taste inca kola, a bright yellow soda that Peruvians love. Each drink tells its own story and pairs perfectly with the country’s diverse cuisine.
Explore our Peruvian Food Guide to discover traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, causa, anticuchos, and other delicious Peruvian cuisine flavors.