Peru, a country brimming with rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, is also a culinary paradise. Its diverse geography, ranging from coastal plains to Andean peaks to the Amazon rainforest, has given rise to a fusion of flavors and ingredients that make Peruvian cuisine truly unique. If you’re a food enthusiast planning a trip to Peru or simply craving a taste of something new, here are five must-try dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more:

1. Ceviche

Ceviche stands as Peru’s national dish, captivating nearly all who taste it. While other nations may boast their renditions with varied seafood and accompaniments like tomatoes and tostada chips, Peru initiated this craze with just five essential ingredients: sea bass (corvina) swiftly marinated in lime juice, onion, salt, and fiery hot chiles (aji). The delicate freshness of the fish is complemented by the sharpness of onion, while boiled corn (choclo) and sweet potato (camote) provide a balance of textures. Dry-roasted corn kernels (cancha) sprinkled around offer a satisfying crunch.

The remaining marinade, known as leche de tigre (tiger’s milk), is a briny and spicy elixir often enjoyed as a shot or mixed with Pisco, whether at the dining table or the morning after as a restorative drink (in which case it is called leche de pantera, or panther’s milk). Tiradito, a local variation of traditional ceviche, adopts a Japanese sushi-style approach by thinly slicing the fish and incorporating puréed aji amarillo, soy sauce, and mirin into the marinade.

2. Lomo Saltado

As beloved as ceviche, this chifa creation showcases a fusion of Chinese stir-fry techniques with traditional Peruvian flavors. Tender strips of beef (or alpaca) marinated in soy sauce, along with onions, tomatoes, aji chiles, and spices, are swiftly stir-fried until the beef is just tender and the onions and tomatoes form a rich, savory sauce. Served with a duo of starches—rice and French fries—this harmonious blend of East and West delights diners across Peru and in Peruvian eateries worldwide.

3. Anticuchos

For the adventurous foodie, anticuchos are a must-try Peruvian street food delight. These skewers of marinated and grilled beef heart or other meats are a testament to Peru’s culinary creativity. Bursting with smoky, charred flavors and served with a side of spicy rocoto sauce, anticuchos offer a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

4. Aji de Gallina

Tender shreds of chicken are enveloped in a velvety sauce crafted from cream, ground walnuts, cheese, and aji amarillo. Balancing mildness with a gentle kick, the fruity heat of the aji is mellowed by the nutty, creamy texture of the sauce. This dish exemplifies Peru’s penchant for rich, flavorful sauces infused with chiles, cheese, cream, or bread, often paired with meats and vegetables. Here, the sauce is combined with the chicken and served atop rice alongside boiled potatoes and black olives, resulting in a vibrant yellow stew that graces the tables of both restaurants and homes across Peru.

5. Causa

Causa, which translates to “the cause,” originated during a conflict between Peru and Chile over a century ago. With only potatoes remaining, Peruvian soldiers’ wives ingeniously crafted a cold mashed potato salad, adding various ingredients as accompaniments, stating “this is for the cause.” Thus, the dish “causa” was born, now a beloved classic in Peru. One popular variation, Causa Limeña or Lima Causa, features layers of potato, tuna, avocado, and tomato, showcasing the ingenuity and creativity of Peruvian cuisine.

Peruvian cuisine is a gastronomic adventure waiting to be explored. From the refreshing tang of ceviche to the bold flavors of lomo saltado and the comforting warmth of aji de gallina, each dish offers a glimpse into Peru’s rich culinary heritage. So, whether you’re traveling to Peru or seeking to recreate the flavors of this vibrant country at home, be sure to indulge in these five must-try dishes for an unforgettable culinary experience.

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