Gastronomic journey through Peru
Think overwhelming nature, the stunning legacy of the Incas, colonial cities that invite exploration. But did you also know that Peruvian gastronomy is among the best and most varied in the world? In this travel blog you will discover Peru and its delicious cuisine!
Lima as a culinary hotspot
Planning a trip to Peru? Chances are Lima is on your bucket list anyway. And rightly so! In recent years, the city has emerged as one of the best culinary destinations in the world. Astrid y Gaston, Central, Maido ... are just a few of the gastronomic temples the city has to offer. In addition, Lima is also overflowing with simple but delicious cevicherias, markets and taverns. There you will mostly taste spicy, colorful dishes or hearty stews. And cocktails, lots of cocktails.
Peru nature on your plate
Peru is a country where nature is overwhelming. This is reflected in Peruvian cuisine. Thanks to the many mountains, long coastline and wild jungles, the food is extremely varied and tasty.
And when I say enormously varied, I really mean enormously varied: 3,500 different types of potatoes, 55 types of corn, quinoa, legumes and cocoa. A mouthful of indigenous products!
Alpaca or cuy?
Every country has, of course, its specialties and delicacies. It is no different in Peru. For example, alpaca is loved not only for its wool, but also in meat dishes, like lomo saltado. That classic Peruvian dish appears on almost every menu and I also prepared it myself during my trip. The meat is surprisingly tender and delicate in flavor, an absolute must-try during your trip through Peru. Want to try Lomo saltado yourself? In Europe, alpaca meat is not available, but I made a variant with beef.
For the really daring: cuy, another typical Peruvian dish. Cuy is roasted guinea pig and is found mainly in the Valle Sagrado. The rural Tipòn is a village famous for the preparation of this dish. Stalls are packed along the main road where market vendors sell their version of the delicacy. Not exactly your cup of tea? Mine neither. I had no problem skipping this tasting.
Quinoa
All the way from the Andes, into our European cuisines: quinoa. Along with potatoes and corn, quinoa forms the basis of almost every Peruvian dish. Farmers grow it on relatively small plots, since farming in Peru is still truly manual labor. If you travel to Peru, it is definitely worth visiting a local market. You'll spot women in wide, colorful skirts Sitting on a mat and selling their hand-grown quinoa.
There are also more than a hundred varieties of quinoa. In Europe we know mainly white, red and black quinoa. In stores you can find quinoa as seeds, flour, flakes and puffed. In addition, quinoa is also a source of vitamins. It contains many proteins and amino acids and is gluten-free. Quinoa is healthy and can be used in the kitchen in many ways!
Peruvian fusion cuisine
As already mentioned, Peruvian cuisine is very diverse. This is partly due to the many influences from other countries. For example, Spanish conquistadores introduced rice, wheat, citrus fruits, cows and pigs in the 16de century. In turn, the Japanese brought the nikkei: a combo of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine trends. Finally, the Italians spread pasta and pizza around the country. All these influences together created a major culinary evolution.
Ever heard of chifa?
Last but not least: chifa! A chifa dish combines various indigenous, regional products with Chinese cooking techniques and ingredients, such as stir-fry and soy sauce. Since the wave of immigration in the 19de century, Chinese cooking techniques have been very popular in Peru. Thus, in a chifa dish, you regularly get rice and potatoes - often made as fries - at the same time.
Our favorite addresses in Peru
Hotels
Hotel B
Hotel B in Lima is a member of the Relais & Chateaux group. The historic boutique hotel is located in the hip artistic neighborhood of Barranco. Artwork by contemporary Peruvian artists is on exhibition throughout the hotel which gives a lot of character to the decor.
Costa del Sol Wyndham
The Costa del Sol Wyndham hotel is located in the historic district of Arequipa, a short distance from the Santa Catalina Monastery, Cathedral and Plaza de Armas. Breakfast is served outside overlooking the beautiful garden and pool.
Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs
Colca Lodge Spa & Hot Springs is the ideal base from which to explore the Colca Canyon with its condors. Enjoy the four thermal pools fed by natural springs.
Titilaka
Titilaka is a luxury boutique hotel from the Relais & Chateaux group located on Lake Titicaca. This unique hotel with its all-inclusive formula lets you experience all the sights on and around Lake Titicaca. Highly recommended!
Inkaterra La Casona
Inkaterra La Casona is located near the historic central square of the colonial city of Cusco. This beautifully restored hotel belongs to the Relais & Chateaux group.
Sol y Luna
The hotel Sol y Luna exudes the soul of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Sol y Luna is centrally located in Urubamba. Here you enjoy excellent cuisine in a quiet and authentic setting. The rooms are scattered in a beautiful garden with a large swimming pool. Member of Relais & Chateaux.
Inkaterra Macchu Picchu Pueblo
Inkaterra Macchu Picchu Pueblo is the ultimate natural paradise and address of choice for visiting the mysterious Macchu Picchu. The hotel has a spa and offers numerous excursions into the exotic rainforest.
Restaurants
Central
Central is located in the Barranco district of the capital city of Lima. Chef Virgilio Martinez will provide you with a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Central. To eat at Central is to take a journey through Peru from the depths of the sea to the highest peaks of the Andes. Central is among the best restaurants in the world.
Kjolle
Kjolle is Central's sister restaurant in Lima. It is the love child of Pia Leon, named best female chef in South America.
Astrid y Gaston
Astrid y Gaston turned Lima into the Mecca of Peruvian cuisine. Gaston Acurio and Diego Munoz introduce you to the delights of this rich gastronomic culture at this restaurant.
Plant Food + Wine
Plant Food + Wine on Del Mar Avenue in Lima is an oasis of green in an environment of concrete and wood. The sophisticated cuisine is 100% vegan. A beautiful experience in a unique setting.
Cicciolina Restaurante
Cicciolina Restaurante, located on the second floor of a historic colonial house in Cusco, is an excellent restaurant and tapas bar. Reservations are absolutely necessary.
Limo
Limo is a no-nonsense restaurant located at the beautiful Plaza de Armas in Cusco. The Peruvian fusion dishes are well-prepared and tasty. Limo is the ideal address where you can enjoy delicious pisco-based cocktails. Again, reservations are highly recommended.
Adres: Portal de Carnes 236, 2nd floor, Plaza de Armas, Cusco. (+51) 84 240 668
