We are aware that a large number of tourists opt to travel abroad to immerse themselves in new cultures and communities, explore uncharted territory, and create memories in countries vastly different from their own. All of these experiences are unforgettable and offer life-changing opportunities.
Of course, these events must take place in locations that offer security, comfort, and amazing chances! And for that reason, Peru is on the travel bucket lists of a great number of people who wish to see the world.
Our country boasts unparalleled natural beauty, and a rich cultural heritage rich in ancient legends, traditions, and attractions to suit every taste. Of course, food is one of the things you must experience while traveling, especially if you are in Peru, among plenty of other experiences in a different place from your country.
We feel immense joy in discussing our culinary expression, which is an authentic piece of art made up of flavor explosions, ingredient combinations, and many cultural influences that have led to some of the best cuisines on the planet, recognized on a global scale.
Apart from having some of the most important buildings on Earth, including Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, Peru also has internationally recognized restaurants, so it is worth investing both time and money for your time here.
In light of this, we decided to compile in one post the most important features of Peruvian food found throughout the nation, from the coast to the forest, from the best Peruvian restaurants in Lima to the street food—there are countless alternatives.
Peruvian cuisine: from Coast to Highlands
Peru has a vast cultural expression that is fully represented in our cuisine. Peruvian cuisine components and preparation vary from north to south, with distinct traits and references. With at least 2,500 typical dishes listed, it is plausible that Peru has a rich culinary heritage.
These dishes, which include Italo-Peruvian cuisine and “Nikkei”, which combines Japanese cooking techniques with Peruvian ingredients, are examples of the diverse influences between various cultures from around the world. Furthermore, it is important to mention that every region of Peru has its own cuisine and preparation methods, which we will briefly discuss below!
Cuisine on the Peruvian coast
One of Peruvian cuisine’s most well-known dishes originates in the country’s large coastal region. The cuisine of this region of the country is distinguished by the prevalence of fish and shellfish, as well as seasonings and flavors that give the dishes a “refreshing” feel.
One of the greatest places to try these meals is Lima, commonly recognized as Latin America’s Gastronomic Capital. This is thanks to exceptional Peruvian chefs, such as Gaston Acurio, who have spread Peruvian cuisine all over the world. Another remarkable Peruvian chef is Virgilio Martinez, owner of Central, the best restaurant in the world located in Lima.
Without a doubt, when addressing this topic, it is impossible to ignore the famous Ceviche, a tasty dish with all of the characteristics mentioned above as it’s made with raw fish in lemon juice, accompanied by other typical regional ingredients such as corn, red onion, and some Peruvian peppers. In addition to the yellow potato-based causa rellena and lomo saltado.
The flavors of the Peruvian jungle
The beautiful Amazon Rainforest is one of the most common biomes found in the Inca’s ancient homeland. This region, known as the “Peruvian jungle,” has an intriguing mix of ingredients, many of which are native to the region, as the recipes typically include fruits in addition to salty items.
“Juanes” is a superb illustration of Peruvian Amazonian characteristic cuisine, as it is cooked within a banana leaf “stuffed” with chicken, rice, olives, and eggs. Some forms of meat are also utilized, such as Cecina, which is dried beef eaten with onion sauce or bananas.
Food in the Andes
The Peruvian Andes region is undoubtedly one of the most popular among travelers, owing to its location in one of the mountain ranges where the magnificent postcard of Peru, Machu Picchu, can be found. As a result, many travelers include Cusco and the Sacred Valley of the Incas in their itinerary.
The cuisine of the mountains reflects the historical phases of this region, which was inhabited by the powerful Incas, who had their own food cultivation technique, such as the use of agricultural terraces, which allowed for the expansion of food diversity in these areas, and was the most advanced technology in South America at the time.
As a result, the items commonly used are based on this old agriculture practice, which includes potatoes, corn, grains, vegetables, herbs, and some fruits. At the time, their meat offerings included guinea pig and alpaca meat.
These are just a few examples of cuisine found in various parts of Peru, and each one encourages us to try them. However, Peruvian cuisine is not limited to savory meals; after such a fantastic main course, it is important to remember to “save room” for dessert and a good drink. Want to learn more? Continue reading!
Full service: Some Peruvian desserts and drinks
In addition to the delicious range of dishes, Peruvian cuisine features sweets and drinks that will satisfy your tastebuds and complete your gourmet experience! Here, we will introduce you to two Peruvian delicacies that you can enjoy throughout your time in Peru.
Turron de Doña Pepa
This sweet is famous in all of Peru and is known for its delicious sweetness and cultural significance. Made with wheat flour, brown sugar honey, fennel, egg yolk, and colorful confectionery, it’s associated with the “Señor de Los Milagros” celebration in October.
Doña Pepa, a cook who was healed miraculously, created this nougat-like sweet for the occasion. While tempting, it’s advised to enjoy it in moderation due to its sweetness and calories.
Pisco Sour
Pisco is a brandy made from grapes and, mixed with the refreshing and sour taste of lemon, it becomes a delicious cocktail. It is worth remembering that, in addition to Pisco, another type of drink with great recognition in Peru is wine, because centuries-old wineries are found throughout the country, and that bring with them a giant tradition in wine production.
Picarones
“Picarones” (Peruvian donuts) is a popular Peruvian fried treat made from pumpkin and sweet potato dough, flavored with yeast and anise.
They are often served with chancaca honey mixed with spices like cinnamon and cloves, giving them a sweet, crunchy, and spicy flavor. Picarones can be found in various locations across Peru, including Cusco, Arequipa, and Lima.
Chicha Morada
Is a traditional Peruvian beverage made by boiling deep purple corn, pineapple peel, cloves, and Peruvian fruits. Its history spans thousands of years and is tied to ancient civilizations such as the Moche and Inca.
This non-alcoholic beverage is cherished for its rich, sweet flavor and brilliant color, which represent Peru’s cultural past. Chicha Morada is a popular and refreshing Peruvian dish that can be found in a variety of settings, from elegant restaurants to private homes.
We hope this article might provide you with a new perspective on Peruvian cuisine, we hope you’re even more excited to try each of these delicacies, which include savory, sweet, and beverage options.
Traveling through Peru is a “full dish” of wonders for every taste. We are excited to welcome you to this culturally rich country full of opportunities. These suggestions are just a few of the vast and delicious Peruvian food, we hope our food can help to make your trip even better.
And if, like us, you want to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture but don’t know where to begin, Viagens Machu Picchu can help you plan your travel itinerary and make your dream come true; what you can do is contact us. Check out our Peru trip packages to learn more about the coast, jungle, mountains, and food!
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