Peruvian Food Adventure: A Culinary Journey for Food Lovers

Peru's culinary scene is renowned for its diversity and rich flavors. It is influenced by a mix of indigenous, Spanish, African, Chinese, Japanese and other immigrant cuisines. Here are some key notes that I learned during my travels:

Diverse ingredients

Due to Peru's varied geography, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes Mountains to the Pacific Coast, it is able to provide a wide range of ingredients, including unique fruits, vegetables and a variety of seafood.

Traditional dishes

• Ceviche: A national dish made from fresh raw fish, marinated in citrus juices, typically served with onions, corn and sweet potatoes.

• Lomo Saltado: Stir-fry combining marinated strips of sirloin with onions, tomatoes and other ingredients served with fried potatoes and rice.

• Aji de Gallina: A spicy, creamy chicken stew made with aji amarillo peppers, cheese and walnuts.

Street food

Popular street foods include anticuchos (grilled skewers of beef heart), empanadas and tamales.

Fusion food

• Nikkei: A fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine, created by dishes like tiradito, which is similar to sashimi but with Peruvian flavors.

• Chifa: A blend of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine with popular dishes like arroz chaufa (fried rice) and lomo saltado.

Superfoods

Peru is known for its "superfoods" like quinoa, maca, and various exotic fruits, which are integrated into both traditional and modern dishes.

Pisco

The national spirit, used in cocktails like the Pisco Sour and Chilcano.

Innovative chefs

Chefs like Gastón Acurio, Virgilio Martinez and Mitsuharu Tsumura have gained international acclaim, putting modern Peruvian cuisine on the global map. Their restaurants, such as Astrid y Gastón, Central and Maido are frequently ranked among the world's best.

My must-try restaurants

Mil

Central

Maido

Astrid y Gastón

Museo del Pisco Sour

Mercado 28

El Pez Amigo

Bar Juanito

Tomo Cocina Nikkei

A Mi Manera

I hope you've gained a better understanding of what to expect from the cuisine Peru has to offer, from world-class dining to modest sandwiches. So, whether you are staying for five days, one month or returning for a third time like me, I am sure this food lover's delight called Peru will satisfy all of your food cravings.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Peru. In need of further inspiration? Check out Lauren Gleeson's guide, 10 Days in Peru: An Itinerary Rich in Food and History.