Where to eat well in Peru

Peru is a megadiverse country of incredible scenic beauty: from the desert shores of the Pacific to the impenetrable and wild rainforests, passing through the majestic snow-capped Andes and the stunning Rainbow Mountains.

The other fascinating side of Peru is rich in history, important archaeological sites, Inca ruins (not forgetting the emblematic Machu Picchu), colonial cities, and a long and ancient culinary tradition.

Peru is a fertile country whose people have always respected and honored the “Pacha Mama,” Mother Earth, who continues to provide sweet and delicious foods, even superfoods. Some of them have become world famous and have appeared on tables all over the world.

Andean Cuisine

Peru is a great place to eat and, thanks to the enormous variety and high quality of the food prepared, it is not difficult to find dishes to suit all tastes. Peruvian cuisine offers an abundance of healthy foods rich in nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Andean dishes are usually good, tasty, and sustainable. Peruvian superfoods are not a novelty but have been cultivated in the Andes since ancient times. They are part of a long tradition extending worldwide because they represent a true culinary and earthly treasure.

About 45 products are grown in this region, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, and fish. The “Superfoods Peru” brand was born from these ideas.

Superfoods of Peru

The most famous superfoods of Peru are undoubtedly quinoa, avocados, sweet potatoes, cocoa, and grapes. Here are the most mysterious ones with original names:

Peruvian maca is an ancient plant that grows in the high Andes, between 3,500 and 4,500 meters above sea level.

Maca root is a natural tonic powder that stabilizes blood pressure, reduces stress and fatigue, helps the brain produce energy, and provides vitality and stamina. It provides protein, minerals, vitamins, calcium, and iron.

Camu Camu is a small fruit from the Peruvian Amazon and contains a lot of vitamin C, more than oranges and lemons. It helps strengthen the immune system, skin, and eyes. It also appears to help stabilize mood in patients with anxiety and depression. It is used in powder form.
Sasha inch, whose seeds are one of the world’s most important sources of omega-3, -6, and -9 fatty acids (even more than oily fish). Sacha inch oil helps people with irritable bowel syndrome and rich liver problems, reduces bad cholesterol (LDL), and regulates blood pressure.

What to eat in Peru

Peruvian cuisine is a beautiful blend of Spanish, African, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian cuisine. In 2015, Lima named the world capital of gastronomy.

Here, fish is one of the main ingredients, and ceviche is a national pride; it is a dish of raw fish and seafood cut into small pieces and marinated in lemon, onion, and chili pepper. Other typical dishes are tiradito, a gutless version of ceviche, and Parihuela, a delicious seafood soup.

There are many restaurants in Lima, from the best to the less famous and lonely, and many cocktail bars where you can enjoy a pisco sour. Lima is becoming an increasingly fashionable city.

Meat is another critical component of Peruvian cuisine, especially in the interior. A popular dish in Peru is fried chicken, which you can enjoy in one of the many picturesque Pollerias.

If you are brave enough, try cuy, roasted, stuffed, or fried. Other typical Peruvian dishes include roast pork rump, soups, and thousands of potato dishes, which come in more than 3,000 varieties in Peru.

Rice is also an essential part of Andean cuisine and is cooked in many different ways: chifa with vegetables, meat, or fish, and Tako Tako, which, together with black beans, is a delicious and nutritious dish is also inexpensive.