Are you wondering what to eat when you are in Peru? If you are like me, you are keen to try the local cuisine in a foreign country, over going to Starbucks (No offense to Starbucks-goers in a foreign country).

If you saw my YouTube video on a semi-vegetarian’s guide to Japanese food, you know that I don’t eat red meat, beef or pork. The cuisine in South America is typically meat heavy, so I knew I had my food research cut out for me.

Peru is home to delicious fine food, cocktails & herbal teas

When I was in Cusco, Peru this August, I had mouth-water delicacies that left me feeling homesick for more Peruvian food. I also have a list of restaurant suggestions in Cusco that make authentic Peruvian food using local, farm-fresh ingredients. Here’s a list of essential Peruvian foods to try for Semi-Vegetarians, Pollotarian & Pescatarians.

1) Ceviche

Ceviche is a traditional Peruvian dish, typically served as an appetizer, made with fish or shellfish & citrus juice, corn, chili pepper & seasonings. I was blown away by how flavorful & fresh Ceviche is.

The Ceviche I had in Cusco, Peru has Sweet Potatoes, Corn, Chili peppers, Andean edible flower, Avocado & Fresh Trout in a citrus marinade. Healthy, organic & flavorful, Ceviche is a must-try dish in Peru.

Don’t bite the chili pepper in Ceviche. Your tongue will catch fire. The rest of the dish is fairly mild yet delicious.

Traditional Ceviche made with wholesome organic ingredients

Zoomed in picture of Ceviche

2) Pollo Saltado

Pollo Saltado is the chicken cousin of the popular beef dish Lomo Saltado. Pollo Saltado literally translates to stir-fry chicken. Peruvian culture is influenced by Chinese immigrants & their food since the 1800s, and hence the stir-fry take on the dish.

You can ask the restaurant for Veggie Saltado and it’s equally delicious

The Pollo Saltado that I ordered in Cusco was prepared with tender juicy shredded chicken, with avocado & stir fried potatoes & bell peppers, served with a side of rice & corn.

Pollo Saltado served with rice, corn & avocado on the side

3) Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is life. I love this traditional cocktail. Pisco Sour is made with Peruvian Brandy & citrus juice. It is so refreshing. Especially after a tough day of hiking in Machu Picchu.

Pisco Sour should be on your must-try list. You will thank me!

Traditional Pisco Sour

Pisco Sour is also available in different flavors. Checkout another version of Pisco Sour with a fruity flavor.

Fruity Pisco Sour variety with edible Llama. Mmm Yum.

4) Aji De Gallina

Aji De Gallina is a creamy chicken stew served with rice. It is a mild and a creamy rice dish. You cannot go wrong with this one.

Aji De Gallina served with rice

Eating out in Peru: Expect to spend up to 75 Peruvian Soles (USD 20) per meal per person for a really good meal at a fancy place

5) Causa de Limena

Causa is like a mini casserole made with yellow potatoes with avocado, lemon & chicken or fish filling with vegetables . Causa is a staple entree on the Peruvian menu. This is a must-try on my list.

Stock image of Causa de Limena

6) Muña tea

My favorite way to unwind in Peru is with Muña tea. The tea is made with Muña leaves that grow in the Andean mountains of Peru. Muña tea helps with digestion after heavy meals. I love the way Muña tea relaxes me.

Muña tea served at a restaurant in Cusco

Bringing back Muña leaves to the states is Illegal. Look for your country’s border & customs rules for more information

7) Chaufa

Chaufa is Peruvian version of fried rice. Chaufa in Peru is influenced by Chinese cuisine. Chaufa is typically made with chicken, rice, vegetables in a wok. You can also have the veggie Chaufa or seafood Chaufa.

If you want to know the restaurants that I went to in Cusco, Peru, check out my Wander Guide to Peru.
My Wander Guides have complete travel information including hotels, dining, activities & more.

Seek out your adventure – Alisha out!