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10 Traditional Peruvian Dishes You Must Try When Visiting Peru

Peru has become one of the most exciting culinary destinations in the world

Travelers from across the globe visit the country not only for its breathtaking landscapes and ancient history, but also to experience the extraordinary diversity of Peruvian cuisine.

Thanks to its unique geography — the Pacific coast, the Andes mountains, and the Amazon rainforest — Peru has access to an incredible variety of ingredients. Over centuries, indigenous traditions blended with Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences to create a vibrant culinary culture.

For visitors exploring what to eat in Peru, discovering traditional dishes is an essential part of the journey.

Here are 10 traditional Peruvian dishes you should not miss when visiting Peru.

1. Ceviche

Perhaps the most famous dish in Peruvian gastronomy, ceviche is a refreshing preparation made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro.

Served with sweet potato and corn, ceviche is considered a national treasure and one of the most iconic things to eat in Peru.

2. Lomo Saltado

Lomo saltado perfectly represents the cultural fusion that defines Peruvian cuisine.

This dish combines stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, soy sauce, and spices, served with both rice and french fries. The cooking technique comes from Chinese culinary traditions that arrived in Peru in the 19th century.

Today, it remains one of the most beloved traditional Peruvian dishes.

3. Anticuchos

A classic example of Peruvian street food, anticuchos are skewers traditionally made with marinated beef heart grilled over charcoal.

Seasoned with ají panca, garlic, and spices, they are usually served with potatoes and corn. Their smoky aroma and rich flavor make them a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

4. Ají de Gallina

This comforting dish consists of shredded chicken served in a creamy sauce made with ají amarillo, cheese, milk, and bread.

It is typically accompanied by rice, boiled potatoes, and olives. Its smooth texture and mild spice make it one of the most accessible dishes for travelers discovering Peruvian food.

5. Arroz con Pato

Originating from northern Peru, arroz con pato is a flavorful rice dish cooked with duck, cilantro, garlic, and spices.

The rice absorbs the rich flavor of the duck and herbs, creating a dish that is both aromatic and deeply satisfying.

6. Causa

Causa is a beautiful layered dish made from mashed yellow potatoes seasoned with lime and ají amarillo.

It is typically filled with chicken, tuna, or seafood and served cold, making it a refreshing and elegant part of Peruvian cuisine.

7. Papa a la Huancaína

This traditional appetizer consists of boiled potatoes covered with a creamy sauce made from ají amarillo, cheese, milk, and crackers.

Simple but full of flavor, it is one of the most recognizable dishes in Peruvian food culture.

8. Rocoto Relleno

A specialty from the southern city of Arequipa, rocoto relleno is made with a spicy red pepper filled with seasoned meat, vegetables, and cheese.

The rocoto pepper gives the dish a distinctive flavor and heat.

9. Seco de Carne

Seco de carne is a traditional stew prepared with beef slowly cooked with cilantro, garlic, onions, and spices.

It is usually served with rice and beans, creating a hearty and comforting meal that reflects the home-style cooking traditions of Peru.

10. Picarones

No culinary journey through Peru would be complete without dessert.

Picarones are delicious fried dough rings made from squash and sweet potato, served with a rich syrup made from chancaca (unrefined cane sugar).

They are one of the most beloved traditional Peruvian desserts and a popular treat in street markets. Discovering Peruvian Cuisine Through Culinary Experiences

For many travelers, tasting these dishes is only the beginning.

Participating in Peruvian cooking classes allows visitors to learn how these recipes are prepared while discovering the ingredients and traditions behind them.

These experiences often include market visits, ingredient presentations, and fruit tastings, offering a deeper connection to the flavors that define Peruvian gastronomy.

A Culinary Adventure You Should Not Miss

From fresh seafood to hearty stews and vibrant street food, the diversity of traditional Peruvian dishes reflects the country’s rich cultural history and extraordinary biodiversity.

Exploring things to eat in Peru is truly a culinary adventure.

Whether you enjoy them in local markets, traditional restaurants, or cooking classes, these dishes represent the heart and soul of Peruvian cuisine.

And tasting them is an experience no traveler should miss.

Marcelo Batata Cooking Class… Cook, Learn, Enjoy and Taste Peru!