Peruvian cuisine is a hidden gem in the world of food, blending indigenous traditions with flavors from Spain, Africa, China, and Japan.
It’s a culinary melting pot that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.
From the coastal ceviche to the hearty lomo saltado, Peruvian dishes are packed with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a whole lot of soul.
If you’re a foodie looking to spice up your kitchen game, you’ve come to the right place.
Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey through Peru’s most iconic dishes.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a newbie in the kitchen, these recipes are totally doable and will leave your taste buds begging for more.
So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the 10+ best Peruvian recipes you absolutely need to try at least once in your life.
1. Ceviche The King of Peruvian Coastal Cuisine
Ceviche is Peru’s national dish, and for good reason. This zesty, citrus-marinated seafood dish is a refreshing explosion of flavors.
Made with fresh fish, lime juice, red onions, and aji peppers, it’s the perfect dish for a hot summer day or when you’re craving something light yet satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh white fish (like sea bass or tilapia), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 aji amarillo pepper, finely chopped (or substitute with jalapeño)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sweet potato and corn for serving
How to Make It:
Start by marinating the fish in lime juice for about 10-15 minutes until it turns opaque.
Add the red onion, aji pepper, garlic, and cilantro, then season with salt and pepper.
Serve with boiled sweet potato and corn on the side for a traditional touch.
Why We Chose It:
Ceviche is the ultimate Peruvian dish that showcases the country’s love for fresh, vibrant ingredients.
It’s a must-try for anyone looking to experience the essence of Peruvian coastal cuisine.
2. Lomo Saltado A Stir-Fry with a Peruvian Twist
Lomo Saltado is the perfect fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cuisines.
This stir-fry dish features tender strips of beef, onions, tomatoes, and fries, all tossed in a savory soy sauce. It’s hearty, flavorful, and downright addictive.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp red vinegar
- 1 red onion, sliced
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 aji amarillo pepper, sliced (or substitute with bell pepper)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup French fries (yes, fries!)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Cooked white rice for serving
How to Make It:
Heat oil in a pan and sauté the beef until browned. Add garlic, onions, tomatoes, and aji pepper, then stir in soy sauce and vinegar.
Toss in the fries and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Serve over white rice for a complete meal.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Lomo Saltado is a crowd-pleaser that combines the best of both worlds.
It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
3. Aji de Gallina Creamy Comfort in a Bowl
Aji de Gallina is the ultimate comfort food. This creamy chicken dish is made with a rich sauce of aji amarillo peppers, walnuts, and Parmesan cheese.
Served over rice and potatoes, it’s pure comfort in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 aji amarillo peppers, blended into a paste
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup ground walnuts
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 slices white bread, soaked in milk
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Cooked rice and boiled potatoes for serving
How to Make It:
Sauté onions and garlic in oil until soft. Add the aji paste, soaked bread, and ground walnuts, then stir in evaporated milk and Parmesan.
Add the shredded chicken and cook until heated through. Serve over rice and potatoes.
Why We Selected It:
Aji de Gallina is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy nights in. It’s a staple in Peruvian households and a must-try for anyone exploring the cuisine.
4. Papa a la Huancaína Potatoes with a Spicy Cheese Sauce
Papa a la Huancaína is a classic Peruvian appetizer that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Boiled potatoes are smothered in a creamy, spicy cheese sauce made with aji amarillo peppers. It’s the perfect starter to any meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes, boiled and sliced
- 2 aji amarillo peppers, blended into a paste
- 1 cup queso fresco or feta cheese
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 4 saltine crackers
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Lettuce leaves and boiled eggs for garnish
How to Make It:
Blend the aji paste, cheese, milk, crackers, and garlic until smooth. Heat oil in a pan and cook the sauce until thickened.
Arrange potato slices on a bed of lettuce, pour the sauce over, and garnish with boiled eggs.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Papa a la Huancaína is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for parties or as a side. It’s a great introduction to Peruvian flavors.
5. Anticuchos Grilled Skewers with a Kick
Anticuchos are a street food favorite in Peru. These grilled skewers are typically made with marinated beef heart, but you can use beef or chicken for a more accessible version.
The secret is in the smoky, spicy marinade that packs a punch.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef heart, beef, or chicken, cut into cubes
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp aji panca paste (or substitute with paprika)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
How to Make It:
Mix vinegar, aji panca paste, garlic, cumin, oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the meat and marinate for at least 2 hours.
Thread the meat onto skewers and grill until charred and cooked through. Serve with boiled potatoes or corn.
Why We Chose It:
Anticuchos are a flavorful, smoky treat that’s perfect for grilling season. They’re a great way to experience Peruvian street food at home.
6. Causa A Layered Potato Delight
Causa is a colorful, layered dish made with mashed yellow potatoes, lime, and aji amarillo.
It’s typically filled with chicken, tuna, or avocado, making it a versatile and visually stunning dish.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium yellow potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 2 tbsp aji amarillo paste
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken or tuna
- 1 avocado, sliced
- Mayonnaise and lettuce for garnish
How to Make It:
Mix mashed potatoes with aji paste, lime juice, oil, salt, and pepper. Layer the potato mixture with chicken or tuna and avocado in a mold or dish.
Chill for an hour, then garnish with mayonnaise and lettuce before serving.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Causa is a unique and versatile dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s perfect for parties or as a light lunch.
7. Rocoto Relleno Spicy Stuffed Peppers
Rocoto Relleno is a spicy twist on stuffed peppers. Rocoto peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, onions, and cheese, then baked to perfection. It’s a fiery dish that’s not for the faint of heart.
Ingredients:
- 4 rocoto peppers (or substitute with bell peppers for less heat)
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup grated cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds. Sauté onions, garlic, and ground beef until cooked.
Add raisins, walnuts, and season with salt and pepper. Stuff the peppers with the mixture, top with cheese, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Why We Selected It:
Rocoto Relleno is a bold, flavorful dish that’s perfect for spice lovers. It’s a great way to add some heat to your dinner table.
8. Arroz con Pollo Peruvian-Style Chicken and Rice
Arroz con Pollo is a one-pot wonder that’s both comforting and flavorful.
This dish features tender chicken and rice cooked with cilantro and aji amarillo for a vibrant green color and rich taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 cups white rice
- 1 cup cilantro, blended with 1/2 cup water
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 aji amarillo pepper, chopped
- 1 cup peas and carrots
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté chicken in oil until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, cook onions, garlic, and aji pepper until soft.
Add rice, cilantro puree, and chicken broth.
Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked. Stir in peas and carrots before serving.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Arroz con Pollo is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
It’s a staple in Peruvian homes and a must-try for anyone exploring the cuisine.
9. Tallarines Verdes Peruvian Pesto Pasta
Tallarines Verdes is Peru’s take on pesto pasta.
This creamy, herbaceous dish is made with basil, spinach, and queso fresco, creating a vibrant green sauce that’s both fresh and indulgent.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup queso fresco or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup walnuts
- 1 clove garlic
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Blend basil, spinach, cheese, milk, walnuts, and garlic until smooth.
Heat oil in a pan and cook the sauce until warmed through. Toss with cooked pasta and serve.
Why We Chose It:
Tallarines Verdes is a fresh, flavorful dish that’s perfect for pasta lovers. It’s a great way to add a Peruvian twist to your dinner routine.
10. Picarones Sweet Potato and Squash Donuts
Picarones are Peru’s answer to donuts.
These sweet, fried treats are made with a dough of sweet potato and squash, then drizzled with a spiced syrup called chancaca. They’re the perfect dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mashed sweet potato
- 1 cup mashed squash
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp yeast
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
How to Make It:
Mix sweet potato, squash, flour, yeast, sugar, and spices to form a dough. Let it rest for 1 hour. Heat oil and fry spoonfuls of dough until golden.
For the syrup, simmer brown sugar, water, cinnamon, and cloves until thickened. Drizzle over the picarones and serve.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Picarones are a sweet, indulgent treat that’s perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings. They’re a beloved Peruvian classic.
11. Chicha Morada A Refreshing Purple Corn Drink
Chicha Morada is a refreshing drink made from purple corn, pineapple, and spices. It’s sweet, tangy, and perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried purple corn
- 8 cups water
- 1 pineapple, peeled and chopped
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 cloves
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Juice of 2 limes
How to Make It:
Boil purple corn, pineapple, cinnamon, and cloves in water for 30 minutes. Strain and stir in sugar and lime juice. Chill before serving over ice.
Why We Selected It:
Chicha Morada is a unique, refreshing drink that’s a staple in Peruvian cuisine. It’s the perfect way to round out your Peruvian meal.
Conclusion
Peruvian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and traditions.
From the zesty ceviche to the comforting aji de gallina, these 10+ recipes are just the tip of the iceberg.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner party, these dishes are sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, head to the kitchen, and start exploring the delicious world of Peruvian food.