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October 12, 2023 6 min read

Peruvian Food is nowadays one of the most sophisticated and variated cuisines in the word. The creation of this cuisine is based on the pre-Inca’s and Inca’s traditions, but also combines the European, African and Asian cuisines, producing a really variated gastronomy that uses many ingredients and spices to achieve unique experiences that combines the flavors, colours and fragrances of four continents in just one dish.

As a creative and prosper cuisine, Peruvian Fooduses many different ingredients such as the scent of wild herbs, a wide variety of seafood and meats in order to bring not only great nutritional values but also a delicious festival of flavours.

With so many ingredients some Peruvian cuisine enthusiasts might be a bit overwhelmed, but there is no need for this, since it’s possible to delimitate the main a basic ingredients needed for most of the Peruvian food recipes.

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Basic ingredients

If you ever walk into a Peruvian kitchen, the smells and different colours will be the first things you might notice. Here are the five essentials ingredients you will need for most of Peruvian Food preparations.

1- Red Onion:

This variety of onion with sweeter and stronger taste really used in the Peruvian cuisine, with a great colour it is used as basic ingredient of any preparation. The flavour it brings after sautéing it is great for beef and stews preparation. This variety of onion can also be used in salads, but it is recommended to neutralize it a little before washing it with water or boiling it since it can be too strong.

2- Aji Amarillo

One of the main ingredients in most of Peruvian recipes, it is a variety of chili pepper from Peru that is hotter than a jalapeño but also brings a strong fruity flavor, similar to the taste in raisins. It can be use in salads, as a garnish or it can be blended as a paste and be used in different sauces and preparations. 

3-Potatoes

One of the favourites accompaniments, usually present in all the Peruvian dishes. They are used in Peru since the Incas civilisation and its nutritional value makes it one of the most important ingredients in Peruvians food. There are different variates of potatoes, and all of them are used in different Peru recipes. It is used for smash potatoes, fresh fries and different traditional dishes such as Causa Rellena.

4-Corn:

One of the most ancient ingredients, the Peruvian Cuisine uses different kind of corns of variated colours and sizes. Some are prepared to be eaten directly as a snack. One of the more emblematic kinds of corn is the purple corn, used in the preparation of food and beverages, like “Chicha morada” a refreshing drink made with boiled ground purple corn with pineapple, cinnamon, spices, sugar and lemon.

5-Camote:

This tuberous root is a large, starchy and sweet ingredient with high nutritional value; it is usually used instead of potatoes in different recipes. Is one of the ingredients with highest values of vitamin A, as 100g of camote have more vitamin A than 100g of carrots.

Peru has many spices, fruits, and vegetables necessary for any Peruvian dish to be done well. If you've just arrived from Peru or are not great at cooking yet, here are some essential Peruvian ingredients that will make your dishes more seamless!

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What is the Peruvian Food Staples?

Peruvian cuisine is known for its diverse and delicious food staples. Below is a list of some of the most popular Peruvian food items and their corresponding ingredients.

1. Cuy (a type of roasted guinea pig) 

2. Aji de gallina (a Peruvian chili sauce) 

3. Queso Blanco (a fresh cheese) 

4. Achuarí (a type of wild anteater) 

5. Pisco sour (a Peruvian cocktail)

6. Chupe de palomilla (a type of lamb stew) 

7. Arequipeño (a type of fish stew)

The Peruvian Food Pyramid

Peruvian food is a mix of indigenous Andean cuisine and European influences. The three main food groups are seafood, chicken, and beef. The most popular Peruvian dish is ceviche, a cold seafood dish made with lime, salt, onion, and chili pepper. 

Another popular Peruvian dish is avocado, a type of stew made with potatoes, chilies, garlic, and other spices. Peru also has its versions of French fries and tacos.

Peru's Most Famous Dishes

Peruvian cuisine is heavily influenced by the indigenous cultures that predate the Spanish colonisation of the country. In particular, the Inca and pre-Inca cultures left a lasting impression on Peruvian cuisine. It can be seen in various spices, herbs, and fruits unique to Peru.

Some well-known Peruvian dishes include ceviche, a seafood dish made with lime, salt, and chile peppers; Arroz chaufa, a type of rice pudding made with evaporated milk and dulce de leche; and Sopa de Lima, a thick soup made from chicken or beef broth, potatoes, macaroni or other vegetables, and usually some meat or seafood.

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How to Cook Peruvian Cuisine

If you're looking for a yummy and authentic way to cook Peruvian cuisine, you'll want to try one of the recipes featured on this blog! Whether you're new to Peruvian cooking or want to tweak a recipe, we've covered you. Here are some essential ingredients for cooking Peruvian food:

-Chili peppers: A staple in Peruvian cuisine, chili peppers add heat and flavor to many dishes. Try using different types and amounts depending on your recipe. For example, use less heat in a soup or stew while adding more to a dish like a sauce or stir-fry.

-Cilantro: Another common ingredient in Peruvian cuisine is fresh and dried cilantro. Try using it in dishes as a fresh herb or dried and ground into a powder for added flavour.

-Lima beans: A legume often used in Peru as a protein source, lima beans are also an essential ingredient in many Peruvian dishes. Try using them, either cooked or canned, depending on your recipe.

-Salt: An essential seasoning in many Peruvian dishes, salt helps bring out the flavors of various ingredients. Try using different

Recipes for a Sample Night's Menu from Lima

If you want a delicious and nutritious meal that will please the whole family, look no further than this sample night's menu from Lima. These dishes are really perfect for a quick and easy dinner or to show your guests that Peruvian cuisine isn't just about spicy chicken dishes!

Peruvian food is traditionally rich in flavour and packed with healthy ingredients. Here, we've included some of our favourite recipes that showcase these qualities.

For starters, try our Crispy Avocado Salad with Aji Amarillo Dressing. It is light and refreshing, perfect for a hot summer day. Or try our Slow Cooker Spicy Lime Pork Tenderloin, which is so succulent and flavourful you won't believe it's made in the slow cooker!

For a heartier meal, try our comforting Andean Stew with Rice. This dish is filled with tender chunks of beef and hearty vegetables, making it the perfect meal to warm you up on a cold winter night. Or try our Quick and Easy Peruvian Salmon with Cilantro-Lime Dressing – it's so simple to make and will be a hit at any dinner party!

And finally,

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Are There Any Vegetarian or Vegan Dishes in Peru?

Yes, vegetarians and vegans can find a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes in Peru. In particular, Puno is home to some of the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Peru. Some of Puno's best vegetarian and vegan dishes include the causa (a potato dish), alpaca stew, French-style lentil soup, and tiradito de choclo (a type of corn dish).

Conclusion

If you're planning on traveling to Peru, it's essential to be familiar with the different food types available in the country. From traditional dishes like ceviche and aji de gallina (chicken stew) to more modern fare like tiradito (a Peruvian take on sushi), we've compiled a list of the essential ingredients you'll need for Peruvian meal.

So whether you're looking to explore some of the most iconic restaurants in Lima or want to prepare some of your delicious meals while traveling, our guide will have everything you need!

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