10 typical dishes you must try in Peru

Globally recognized as a culinary epicenter, Peru has won numerous international awards and has been acclaimed by chefs and food critics worldwide. Peruvian cuisine is a symphony of flavors, influences, and techniques that reflect its rich cultural heritage , fusing indigenous traditions with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

Peru is a destination that stands out not only for its breathtaking landscapes and rich history, but also for its vibrant and diverse cuisine . A trip to this land of diverse cultures is an invitation to savor a variety of dishes. At the heart of this culinary adventure lies ceviche, considered the king of Peruvian gastronomy .

Peruvian cuisine offers a rich and diverse experience that reflects its history, culture, and passion for good food. Below, we tell you about 10 typical Peruvian dishes that you can't miss on your next trip .

1. Aji de Gallina

Aji de gallina is an iconic dish that combines shredded chicken breast with a creamy and spicy sauce made with yellow chili peppers, evaporated milk, walnuts, and cheese . This delicacy is served over potatoes and garnished with hard-boiled egg and black olives, offering a perfect balance between spiciness and creaminess.

2. Beef dry

Seco de res is a masterpiece of Peruvian Creole cuisine. This beef stew is slow-cooked with a mixture of cilantro, chili peppers, beer, and spices, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth . Served with beans, rice, and yucca, seco de res is a hearty and satisfying dish that reflects the richness and diversity of Peruvian cuisine.

3. Lomo saltado, a must-try in Peru

Lomo saltado is a dish that showcases the influence of Chinese cuisine in Peru. It consists of strips of beef stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, chili peppers, and soy sauce, served with French fries and rice . This dish is a perfect example of the fusion of techniques and flavors that characterizes Peruvian gastronomy, combining the best of East and West in a single dish.

4. Papas a la huancaína, the classic Peruvian appetizer

Papas a la huancaína is a classic appetizer consisting of boiled potatoes covered in a creamy sauce made with yellow chili peppers, fresh cheese, and milk . This sauce, with its mild spiciness and silky texture, transforms a simple potato dish into an unforgettable culinary experience.

5. Pachamanca

Pachamanca is a culinary tradition that dates back to the ancient Andean civilizations. This dish is prepared by cooking meats, potatoes, beans, and other vegetables in an earth oven using hot stones . The result is a meal full of flavor and history, celebrating the deep connection Peruvians have with their land and their ancestors.

6. Juane

Originating in the Peruvian rainforest, juane is a dish wrapped in bijao leaves and steamed. Traditionally, it's made with rice, chicken, olives, hard-boiled egg, and spices . This delicacy is not only an explosion of exotic flavors but also a symbol of the San Juan festivities, celebrated with great fervor in the Peruvian Amazon.

7. Causa limeña

Causa limeña is a colorful appetizer made with layers of mashed potatoes seasoned with yellow chili pepper and lime, accompanied by chicken, tuna, or seafood, and garnished with avocado and egg . This dish is a delight for both the eyes and the palate, combining flavors and textures that highlight the versatility of the potato, an essential ingredient in the Peruvian diet.

8. If you go to Peru, don't miss the Cau-Cau

Cau-Cau is a stew of tripe and potatoes, cooked with a mixture of yellow chili pepper, onion, and mint . This dish, while it may seem unusual to some, is a testament to Peruvian cuisine's ability to transform simple ingredients into flavorful and aromatic delicacies.

9. Octopus with olives

Octopus with olives is a sophisticated dish that combines the tenderness of cooked octopus with a creamy black olive sauce . This dish is a delight for seafood lovers, offering a perfect balance between the delicate texture of the octopus and the intense flavor of the olives.

10. Ceviche, the king of Peruvian gastronomy

Ceviche is undoubtedly the most iconic dish in Peruvian cuisine . Prepared with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, onion, chili pepper, and cilantro, ceviche is an explosion of freshness and flavor . Every bite is a delight for the senses, capturing the essence of the Peruvian sea and the culinary skill of its chefs.

Cusco and Machu Picchu 4 days / 3 nights

Bonus: Try the Machu Picchu cocktail and the chicha morada

Among the non-alcoholic options, we must mention chicha morada , a traditional beverage made from purple corn boiled with pineapple, cinnamon, and cloves, and sweetened with sugar and lemon juice . This drink is not only refreshing and delicious but also rich in antioxidants and offers numerous health benefits.

When it comes to drinks, beyond Peruvian pisco, the Machu Picchu cocktail stands out as a vibrant and colorful beverage that pays homage to the famous Inca citadel. Prepared with pisco, grenadine, orange juice, and mint liqueur , this drink is a perfect blend of sweet and citrus flavors.

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