Peru is renowned for its diverse and rich culinary heritage, which reflects its cultural history and geographical variety. Here are 20 popular foods that Peru is known for:
- Ceviche - Fresh raw fish marinated in citrus juices, typically lime, along with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers.
- Lomo Saltado - A stir-fry dish combining marinated strips of beef with onions, tomatoes, and other ingredients, served with rice and fries.
- Aji de Gallina - A creamy shredded chicken dish made with aji amarillo peppers, cheese, and walnuts, often served with rice.
- Pollo a la Brasa - Peruvian rotisserie chicken, marinated and cooked over charcoal, served with dipping sauces.
- Tacu Tacu - A dish made from a mixture of rice and beans, often served with a fried egg or grilled meat.
- Causa Rellena - A cold dish made of layered mashed yellow potatoes filled with avocado, tuna, or chicken salad.
- Anticuchos - Grilled skewers typically made with marinated beef heart, served with potatoes and corn.
- Pachamanca - A traditional dish prepared by cooking meat and vegetables in an underground oven with hot stones.
- Sancochado - A hearty meat and vegetable stew, typically featuring beef, yuca, potatoes, and corn.
- Quinoa - A highly nutritious grain often served as a side dish or salad base, popular in various preparations.
- Rocoto Relleno - Spicy rocoto peppers stuffed with minced meat, nuts, and spices, then baked.
- Arroz con Pollo - A classic dish of rice cooked with chicken, cilantro, and various vegetables.
- Pisco Sour - While not a food, this iconic cocktail made from pisco (grape brandy), lime juice, sugar, and egg white is a staple of Peruvian cuisine.
- Humitas - Steamed corn pudding made from corn dough, cheese, and spices, wrapped in corn husks.
- Chifa - Peruvian-Chinese fusion cuisine, with dishes like Arroz Chaufa (stir-fried rice).
- Seco de Cordero - A flavorful lamb stew made with cilantro, beer, and spices, served with rice.
- Frejoles con Seco - Black beans cooked with spices and served with rice and a meat stew.
- Papa a la Huancaina - Boiled potatoes topped with a creamy, spicy cheese sauce made from aji amarillo peppers.
- Leche Asada - A dessert similar to flan, made from milk, eggs, sugar, and sometimes flavored with cinnamon.
- Suspiro a la Limeña - A sweet dessert made from sweetened condensed milk and meringue, typically served chilled.
These dishes reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Peru, showcasing its unique ingredients and culinary techniques.