Authentic Peru Food Recipes

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Peruvian cuisine is renowned for its diverse flavors, unique ingredients, and exquisite dishes. It combines influences from various cultures, including indigenous, Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese, resulting in a rich gastronomic heritage. From vibrant ceviche to hearty stews, Peru offers a wide array of mouthwatering dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we will explore some authentic Peru food recipes that you can recreate in your own kitchen.

1. Ceviche

Ceviche is considered Peru’s national dish and is a must-try for any food enthusiast. This refreshing seafood dish typically consists of fresh raw fish or shellfish marinated in citrus juices, such as lime or lemon, along with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro. The acidic marinade “cooks” the fish, resulting in a flavorful and tangy dish.

Ingredients for Ceviche:

  • 1 lb fresh white fish fillets (such as sea bass or flounder), cubed
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1-2 chili peppers (aji amarillo or jalapeno), seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1⁄4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a glass bowl, combine the fish, sliced onion, and chili peppers.
  2. Pour the lime and lemon juice over the fish, ensuring it is completely covered.
  3. Add salt and pepper to taste and gently mix the ingredients.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro.

2. Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a delightful fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine, showcasing the influence of Chinese immigrants in Peru. This stir-fry dish features tender strips of beef, sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and spices, served over crispy french fries and accompanied by steamed rice.

Ingredients for Lomo Saltado:

  • 1 lb beef tenderloin or sirloin, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tomatoes, cut into wedges
  • 1-2 yellow chili peppers, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
  • French fries and steamed rice for serving

Instructions:

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
  2. Add the beef strips and quickly stir-fry until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the onions, tomatoes, chili peppers, and minced garlic until they become tender.
  4. Return the beef to the skillet and add soy sauce and red wine vinegar. Stir well to combine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
  6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
  7. Serve the Lomo Saltado over a bed of steamed rice and accompanied by crispy french fries.

3. Aji de Gallina

Aji de Gallina is a classic Peruvian comfort food dish that highlights the country’s culinary heritage. It consists of tender shredded chicken cooked in a creamy sauce made from aji amarillo chili peppers, cheese, walnuts, and evaporated milk. This dish is typically served with white rice and boiled potatoes.

Ingredients for Aji de Gallina:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2-3 aji amarillo chili peppers, seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 cup walnuts, toasted and ground
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • White rice and boiled potatoes for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the chicken breasts. Cook until tender and fully cooked.
  2. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Shred the chicken into small pieces.
  3. In a separate skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
  4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and aji amarillo chili peppers. Sauté until the onions become translucent.
  5. Add the ground walnuts and sauté for a few more minutes.
  6. Stir in the shredded chicken, grated parmesan cheese, and evaporated milk. Mix well.
  7. Simmer the mixture over low heat until the sauce thickens.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve the Aji de Gallina over white rice and accompanied by boiled potatoes.

Peruvian cuisine is a melting pot of flavors and cultural influences that have created a unique and vibrant culinary experience. These authentic Peru food recipes allow you to bring the essence of Peru into your home and savor the traditional dishes that have captivated food lovers worldwide. So embrace your inner chef, gather the necessary ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey to explore the delicious world of Peruvian cuisine. Enjoy!

FAQ

Q: What is ceviche?
A: Ceviche is Peru’s national dish made with fresh raw fish or shellfish marinated in citrus juices, such as lime or lemon, along with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro.

Q: What are the ingredients for ceviche?
A: The ingredients for ceviche include fresh white fish fillets, red onion, chili peppers, lime juice, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and cilantro.

Q: How do you make ceviche?
A: To make ceviche, you need to combine the fish, sliced onion, and chili peppers in a glass bowl. Then, pour lime and lemon juice over the fish, add salt and pepper, and mix gently. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving, and garnish with chopped cilantro.

Q: What is lomo saltado?
A: Lomo saltado is a Peruvian dish that combines Chinese and Peruvian cuisine. It features tender strips of beef sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and spices, served over french fries and steamed rice.

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