Welcome to the delicious world of Peruvian cuisine, where vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients come together to create a truly unique culinary experience. With influences from indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, and Asian immigration, Peru has developed a rich and varied food landscape that offers something for every palate. Join us as we explore the must-try dishes, exotic ingredients, and delightful drinks that make Peruvian food a feast for the senses! Let’s dig into the most popular foods in Peru you have to try while traveling.

Peruvian Chocolate

For centuries, chocolate has been a cherished part of Peruvian culture, enjoyed in various forms. Peru is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest chocolate, characterized by its unique fruity and earthy flavors. While in Peru, a visit to the Choco Museum is a must, where you can learn all about chocolate and even craft your own from cacao beans.

Peruvian Fruits

Peru is home to a wide variety of exotic fruits that you simply must try during your visit. Whether you enjoy them fresh or as part of delicious drinks and dishes, experiencing these fruits is an essential part of exploring Peruvian culture.

Lucuma

Lucuma is celebrated as one of Peru’s superfoods, known for its delightful flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Historically dubbed the “Gold of the Incas,” this fruit can be enjoyed in various forms, including ice cream, desserts, and milkshakes.

Aguaymanto

Aguaymanto, also known as golden berry, is a well-known fruit in Peru. Small and resembling a cherry, it boasts a vibrant golden-yellow color and a tangy, cherry-like taste. This fruit is also recognized as a great source of vitamin C.

Grandilla

Grandilla, a close relative of passionfruit, offers a delightful sweet and tangy flavor. You can enjoy it by scraping out the pulp to eat it directly, or you can strain it and dilute it with water for a refreshing juice. This fruit is rich in fiber and calcium, making it beneficial for your digestive system.

Camu Camu

While exploring Peru, be sure to try Camu Camu, vibrant red-purple berries native to the Amazon rainforest. Known for having the highest natural concentration of vitamin C on the planet, these superberries pack a powerful punch. We tried Camu Camu Kombucha, and it was absolutely delicious—refreshing with a unique twist!

Guanabana

Guanabana, commonly referred to as soursop, is a beloved fruit for making refreshing juices. It has a unique flavor reminiscent of a blend of pineapple and strawberry. In addition to its delicious taste, guanabana is also recognized for its numerous health benefits.

Peruvian Drinks

Peruvian Coffee

Kickstart your morning with a cup of Peruvian coffee, celebrated for its medium body that strikes a balance between watery and syrupy textures. The flavor profile is rich and varied, often featuring nutty, chocolatey, or even citrus notes, influenced by the unique soil and environment where the coffee is cultivated.

Pisco

Pisco is a distinctive brandy crafted in Peru’s winemaking regions, made from fermented grape juice and ranging in color from white to light yellow. There are three main types of pisco:

• Puro – Made from a single grape variety.
• Acholado – Created from a blend of different grape varieties.
• Mosto Verde – A specialty pisco distilled from partially fermented grape must, making it quite rare.

Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is considered the national drink of Peru. This refreshing cocktail combines Pisco brandy, lime juice, sugar syrup, and egg whites, resulting in a deliciously frothy and tangy beverage.

Wine

The Peruvian climate is ideal for grape cultivation, leading to the production of some exquisite wines. If you’re a wine enthusiast, be sure to sample a Peruvian wine with your meal for a delightful pairing.

Inca Kola

Wherever you go in Peru, you’ll encounter Inca Kola, a vibrant yellow soda that’s a beloved local favorite. Its unique flavor is reminiscent of bubblegum. Don’t let its bright color deter you—once you give it a try, you’ll likely join the ranks of those who adore this refreshing drink!

Canchitas

Canchitas, commonly referred to as Peruvian popcorn, are a popular snack in Peru. These toasted corn kernels are crunchy and savory, often served as a starter while you wait for your meal. You’ll frequently find them accompanying beloved dishes like ceviche.

Ceviche

Ceviche is considered Peru’s national dish and is sometimes referred to as Peruvian sushi. This vibrant dish features various types of raw fish marinated in simple ingredients such as lime juice, onion, salt, and hot chiles. It’s typically served with sides of boiled corn (choclo), sweet potatoes (camote), and dry roasted corn kernels (cancha). Many restaurants also offer vegetarian and vegan ceviche options for those who don’t consume fish.

Aji De Gallian

Aji de Gallina is often considered Peru’s comfort food, featuring a unique Peruvian twist on chicken curry. The dish is known for its rich sauce made from aji amarillo, or Peruvian yellow chili peppers, which has a thick consistency and mild-spicy flavor. It’s typically served over a bed of rice, accompanied by boiled eggs, vegetables, nuts, and crispy fried plantains.

Cuy

Guinea pig, or cuy, is a beloved delicacy in Peru and ranks as the second most popular meat option among locals. Known for its tenderness, cuy is typically baked with local herbs and served whole, complete with its head and legs. While this might seem unusual to some, as many people regard guinea pigs as pets, it’s a dish worth trying for those open to culinary adventures during their visit to Peru.

Alpaca

If guinea pig is the second favorite meat in Peru, alpaca holds the top spot. Known for being lean and rich in protein, alpaca meat is a versatile ingredient found in various dishes, including stir-fries, burgers, and sausages. It’s a delicious option to explore during your culinary journey in Peru.

Chaufa

Peru’s culinary landscape has been enriched by Chinese influences, known as Peruvian Chinese cuisine or Chifa, thanks to Chinese immigrants. One must-try dish from this fusion is Chaufa, which is essentially fried rice. This flavorful dish features rice, vegetables, eggs, soy sauce, and your choice of chicken or other meats, all cooked over high heat for a deliciously satisfying meal.

Causa

Peru is home to over 3,000 varieties of potatoes, and causa is one of its signature dishes. This layered cake-like dish features mashed potatoes infused with lime and chili, complemented by a layer of shredded fish or chicken mixed with mayonnaise, as well as another layer of boiled eggs and avocado. It’s a colorful and flavorful representation of Peruvian cuisine.

Picarones

Picarones are a delightful deep-fried Peruvian dessert shaped like donuts. Made from a mixture of flour, eggs, and various flavorful ingredients such as sweet potato and squash, these treats are often enjoyed drizzled with a sweet syrup, making them a must-try indulgence.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, the culinary delights of Peru offer an adventure for everyone. So, next time you find yourself in this beautiful country, be sure to indulge in Peru’s rich gastronomic offerings. Embrace the flavors, share in the culture, and savor every moment—Peruvian cuisine is waiting to be discovered!

Don’t forget to pin this Peru food guide to your travel board for easy reference.