Peruvian cuisine has earned the title of the world's best for eight straight years, drawing food lovers globally. Though travel to Peru may be paused, you can bring its vibrant flavors to your kitchen. As someone who's explored Peru's culinary scene firsthand, I've curated six iconic dishes and cocktails with easy preparation tips to evoke the essence of Lima and Arequipa.
Causa Limeña
Causa Limeña, a beloved cold starter from Lima, layers creamy mashed potatoes with crab (or chicken, tuna, or veggies) and the signature fruity heat of Aji Amarillo chili paste. 'Causa' derives from Quechua 'kausay,' meaning sustenance or potato. Find Aji Amarillo paste at Dutch specialty shops. Whip up this elegant appetizer effortlessly with our simple guide.
Lomo Saltado
Showcasing Peru's Chinese-Peruvian fusion (Chifa), Lomo Saltado is a stir-fry masterpiece of tender beef, tomatoes, peppers, onions, soy sauce, and french fries, served over rice. All ingredients are supermarket staples, making this hearty dish a quick weeknight win.
Rocoto Relleno
From Arequipa, this stuffed pepper delights with fiery rocoto chilies (or milder red bells) filled with savory ground meat and gooey cheese. Raw rocoto packs 10x the heat of jalapeños but mellows when parboiled. A nutritious, bold appetizer that's simple to master.
Solterito de Quinua
Another Arequipa gem, this refreshing salad blends fresh ingredients with Andean superfood quinoa—the 'golden grain' revered for its complete protein profile, essential amino acids, and nutty flavor. Perfect for summer, it's as nutritious as it is delicious.
Pisco Sour
Peru's national cocktail, the Pisco Sour marries grape-based pisco, lime juice, simple syrup, and frothy egg white, dashed with Angostura bitters. Ideal for warm days, shake it up at home for an instant taste of Peru.
Chilcano
Equally refreshing, Chilcano mixes pisco, lime, and ginger beer in a highball glass over ice—no shaker needed. Add bitters for depth and garnish with lime. Simple, zesty, and profoundly Peruvian.
