Peruvian Cuisine Guide: The Most Iconic Dishes and Drinks You Must Try

The Soul of Peru: A Culinary Heritage

Peru is more than just a country with stunning natural beauty and a rich history of ancient civilizations; it’s also a major force in the world of food.
It has been recognized by respected organizations like National Geographic and The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, which means its cuisine is considered some of the most diverse and highly regarded globally.

Its richness lies in a fusion of cultures: pre-Hispanic traditions blended with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences over centuries. This fusion has created a vibrant and innovative cuisine that is deeply connected to the land. Whether you’re looking at the coastal regions, the highlands of the Andes, or the dense jungles of the Amazon, Peruvian food reflects the variety and richness of its people and their surroundings.

Must-Try Peruvian Dishes

Ceviche — The National Pride

Ceviche is a dish that brings out the very essence of Peru’s coastal cuisine, and it’s considered the country’s national favorite for a reason. It’s a vibrant and lively meal that’s bursting with flavor and personality. The dish is made by marinating fresh fish, usually caught just hours before it’s prepared, in the zesty juice of Peruvian limes. This gives the fish a sharp, refreshing taste that’s instantly recognizable. Alongside the lime, the fish is seasoned with ají limo, a type of spicy chili that adds a delightful kick, along with the sweetness of finely chopped red onion, a pinch of salt, and the fresh, aromatic touch of cilantro. The ceviche is then served alongside a variety of side dishes, including sweet potato, choclo which is a type of Andean corn, and cancha, which is simply toasted corn. This combination showcases the natural ingredients and the deep culinary traditions of Peru, delivering a dish that’s as colorful and flavorful as the country itself.

Lomo Saltado — The Perfect Fusion

Lomo Saltado is a wonderful example of how Chinese and Peruvian cuisines have come together to create something unique and delicious. This dish features tender slices of beef that are quickly stir-fried with a mix of ingredients like onions, tomatoes, yellow chili pepper, soy sauce, and vinegar. The combination of these elements creates a flavorful and slightly smoky sauce that truly brings out the taste of the beef. The dish is traditionally served with a side of rice and French fries, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that beautifully represents the blend of Eastern and Western influences on one plate.

Aji de Gallina — Comfort in a Dish

This rich and smooth chicken stew is made by gently mixing shredded chicken with a creamy sauce that’s made from a combination of milk, bread, cheese, walnuts, and a mild yellow chili called ají amarillo. The dish has a soft and slightly spicy flavor, which gives it a warm and comforting taste. It’s a popular dish that showcases the country’s colonial history and its deep appreciation for comforting, flavorful meals.

Papa a la Huancaína — A Taste of the Andes

This cherished appetizer is made by boiling yellow potatoes and then topping them with a rich, smooth sauce that’s created from fresh cheese, milk, crackers, and ají amarillo. It comes from Huancayo and is usually enjoyed cold, served alongside lettuce, boiled eggs, and olives — a vibrant and colorful beginning to a meal that’s commonly found throughout Peru.

Causa Limeña — A Layered Delight

Bright and refreshing, Causa Limeña is a dish made by mixing mashed yellow potatoes with a zesty splash of lime juice and a touch of ají amarillo, which gives it a warm, slightly spicy flavor. This creamy base is then combined with a variety of ingredients like tuna, grilled chicken, or fresh vegetables, along with creamy avocado and a couple of boiled eggs. The result is a dish that is both light and full of flavor, offering a satisfying taste experience that’s beloved and commonly found on Peruvian tables.

Arroz con Pato — Northern Peru’s Signature Dish

From the northern areas of Chiclayo and Lambayeque, Arroz con Pato stands out as a genuine treasure of Peruvian cuisine. This dish features rice that is cooked in a green broth, infused with the fresh taste of cilantro, the pungent kick of garlic, and the rich depth of dark beer. The rice is served alongside a perfectly cooked duck leg, which is so tender it practically falls apart. Together, these components combine to create a deeply flavorful and aromatic meal that is a hallmark of the northern Peruvian culinary tradition.

Anticuchos — The Street Food Classic

Marriage of beef heart, or sometimes alpaca in the Andes, is marinated and grilled until it’s perfectly cooked, then served with a spicy ají sauce and potatoes. This dish has its origins dating back to the colonial era, and Anticuchos stand as a prime example of how Peru takes simple, everyday ingredients and transforms them into something truly remarkable in the world of cuisine.

Cuy Chactado — The Andean Tradition

Marriage, or cuy, is a traditional Andean dish that has been part of Peruvian culture for a long time. It’s a type of guinea pig that’s often deep-fried until it’s crispy and golden. The dish is usually served with potatoes and a spicy sauce made from ají peppers. Eating cuy is more than just enjoying a meal—it’s a way to connect with the rich traditions and history of Peru, offering travelers a unique taste of the country’s ancestral heritage.

Traditional Peruvian Drinks

Pisco Sour — The Spirit of Peru

Peru’s national cocktail, the Pisco Sour, is a well-loved drink made from a special type of grape distillate called Pisco, which is protected by a denomination of origin. This means that the Pisco used in the cocktail must come from specific regions in Peru, ensuring its quality and authenticity. The Pisco Sour is prepared with fresh lime juice, a mix of sugar and water to make syrup, a raw egg white, and a dash of Angostura bitters, which add a distinctive flavor and aroma. The result is a drink that is both elegant and perfectly balanced, with a smooth and refreshing taste. Every year, on the first Saturday of February, Peruvians come together to celebrate National Pisco Sour Day, honoring this iconic cocktail with special events and festivities that showcase its cultural significance.

Chilcano — A Refreshing Classic

Chilcano is a drink made with Pisco, ginger ale, lime, and ice. It’s a lighter and more refreshing version of the Pisco Sour, making it a great choice for enjoying on warm afternoons in Lima or along the coast.

Chicha Morada — The Sweet Taste of Tradition

Chicha Morada is a wonderful non-alcoholic beverage that is loved for its rich flavor and health benefits. It is made by combining purple corn, which gives it its distinctive color, with pineapple and apple for a sweet and tangy taste. Spices like cinnamon and cloves are also added to enhance the aroma and give it a warm, comforting flavor. This drink is usually served cold, making it a refreshing choice, especially during warmer weather. Chicha Morada has its origins in the Andean region, where it has been enjoyed for generations as part of traditional culture and cuisine. It is not only a delicious drink but also packed with nutrients, making it a popular choice among people who enjoy both flavor and health.

Inca Kola — Peru’s Golden Soda

Loved across generations, Inca Kola is a bright yellow soft drink with a unique, sweet flavor reminiscent of bubblegum and lemon verbena.

It’s not just a beverage — it’s a cultural icon that pairs perfectly with Peruvian comfort food.

A Culinary Journey Worth Taking

Peru’s food scene is more than just about flavor — it’s a deep reflection of history, culture, and the spirit of its people.
Whether you’re savoring a meal at renowned dining spots like Central or Maido, or simply enjoying the vibrant offerings at local markets, each dish carries a rich backstory and unique significance.

If you’re considering a trip to Peru, be sure to plan your visit with a focus not only on its breathtaking scenery but also on its incredible culinary experiences.
In Peru, every meal is an adventure — each bite tells a story, and every flavor leaves a lasting impression that stays with you long after you’ve left.

Plan Your Culinary Journey with View Peru

At View Signatures Travels, we specialize in creating unforgettable luxury travel experiences that allow you to truly appreciate the incredible food that Peru has to offer.
Whether you’re participating in an authentic traditional cooking class in the historic city of Cusco or enjoying a sophisticated gourmet meal at one of Lima’s most acclaimed restaurants, every moment is crafted to delight your senses and deepen your connection to the local culture.

Embark on a journey where you can explore, savor, and truly fall in love with the rich and diverse flavors that define Peruvian cuisine.

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