Discover the Flavors of Peru: 20 Delicious Easy Recipes for Beginners
Peruvian cuisine is a fusion of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences, resulting in a unique and vibrant culinary experience. From spicy stir-fries to hearty soups, and from creamy sauces to crispy street food, Peruvian cooking has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through 20 mouth-watering easy recipes that are perfect for beginners.
From classic dishes like Lomo Saltado with homemade fries to modern twists on traditional favorites, these recipes showcase the diversity and richness of Peruvian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple yet flavorful dishes will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed streets of Lima and beyond.
Stay tuned for our next installment, where we’ll dive into the world of Peruvian cooking and explore the secrets behind these 20 delicious easy recipes!
Lomo Saltado with Homemade Fries
Lomo Saltado is a classic Peruvian dish that combines the flavors of beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries. This recipe brings together the savory stir-fry and crispy homemade fries for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Homemade fries (recipe below)
Homemade Fries:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the mixed bell peppers and cooked beef back into the pan. Stir in the diced tomatoes, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve with homemade fries (cook according to package instructions or try the recipe below).
Homemade Fries:
1. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the potato strips in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
3. Drain the fries on paper towels and sprinkle with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes for the stir-fry and 10-15 minutes for the homemade fries.
Quick Peruvian Chicken Soup
Looking for a comforting and flavorful soup that’s ready in no time? This Quick Peruvian Chicken Soup recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and aromatic bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Easy Aji de Gallina with Shredded Chicken
This creamy Peruvian chicken dish is a comforting and flavorful meal, perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering sauce to coat shredded chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the shredded chicken and cook until coated with the sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Peruvian Ceviche with Lime and Corn
This refreshing ceviche recipe is a twist on the classic Peruvian dish, featuring sweet corn and zesty lime juice. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, this appetizer or snack is perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white fish (such as halibut, sea bass, or flounder), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 ear of corn, husked and silked, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the fish pieces and lime juice. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity of the lime.
2. Just before serving, add the corn, red onion, and cilantro to the bowl with the fish. Stir gently to combine.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (marinating time)
Classic Papa a la Huancaina with Boiled Potatoes
Savor the rich flavors of Peruvian cuisine with this hearty and comforting dish, featuring boiled potatoes smothered in a creamy spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large boiled potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
– 1 cup Huancaina sauce (see recipe below)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt to taste
Huancaina Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon aji amarillo pepper paste (or substitute with sriracha)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a saucepan, combine Huancaina sauce ingredients over medium heat. Whisk until smooth.
2. Arrange boiled potato wedges on a serving plate or individual plates.
3. Spoon the Huancaina sauce over the potatoes, followed by grated cheese and chopped cilantro.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Speedy Arroz con Pollo Peruvian Style
Speedy Arroz con Pollo Peruvian Style Recipe
Peruvian-style chicken and rice is a classic dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This speedy recipe gets you out of the kitchen in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably leftover)
• 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, mixed veggies, and cooked rice. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the rice mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your Speedy Arroz con Pollo Peruvian Style!
Effortless Causa Limeña with Avocado
Discover a refreshing twist on the classic Peruvian dish, Causa Limeña, with the added creaminess of avocado.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yucca or sweet potatoes, cooked and chilled
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 ounces grilled chicken breast or salmon fillet, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cooked yucca or sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced avocado, lime juice, mayonnaise, and chopped cilantro.
3. Add the cooked yucca or sweet potatoes to the bowl and gently fold until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using, place sliced grilled chicken breast or salmon fillet on top of the causa mixture.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking time for yucca or sweet potatoes)
Fast Peruvian-Style Beef Stir-Fry
Get a taste of the vibrant flavors of Peru with this speedy beef stir-fry, packed with aromatic spices and tangy aji amarillo peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tbsp aji amarillo pepper paste (or substitute with sriracha)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes; set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in aji amarillo pepper paste, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
6. Return beef to the pan; stir-fry until coated with the sauce, about 2 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Quick Anticuchos with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of South America with this speedy recipe for Anticuchos, grilled beef skewers served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread beef cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until beef is cooked to desired level of doneness.
4. Meanwhile, whisk together peanut butter, heavy cream, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and garlic powder in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled anticuchos with peanut sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Tacu Tacu with Fried Eggs
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines crispy tortillas with a flavorful filling and topped with a runny fried egg.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for alternative options)
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying eggs
– Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add taco seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Fry eggs in a separate skillet with oil over medium heat until the whites are set and yolks are still runny.
7. Assemble tacos by spooning meat mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by a fried egg and shredded cheese (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Peruvian Green Spaghetti
Discover the bold flavors of Peru with this vibrant green spaghetti recipe. Fresh herbs and spices add a burst of freshness to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in chopped parsley, cilantro, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with herb mixture.
6. Squeeze lime juice over the top and toss again to coat.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Speedy Rocoto Relleno Stuffed Peppers
In this recipe, we’re combining the spicy kick of rocoto peppers with the comforting warmth of stuffed peppers. This Speedy Rocoto Relleno recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 rocoto peppers, seeded and chopped (use gloves when handling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, black beans, cilantro, cheese, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture.
5. Place chopped rocoto peppers on top of the filling in each bell pepper.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Effortless Chicha Morada Drink
A refreshing twist on traditional chicha morada, this recipe is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups purple corn juice (chicha morada)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the chicha morada and milk.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the vanilla extract and stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve cold over ice cubes.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a refreshing drink, not a cooked meal.
Enjoy your Effortless Chicha Morada Drink!
Fast Peruvian-Style Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Peru with a quick and easy cooking time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon ají amarillo pepper paste (or substitute with sriracha)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Push vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs; scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetable mixture.
6. Add cooked rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
7. Add soy sauce and ají amarillo pepper paste (or sriracha); stir-fry for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Humitas with Fresh Corn
These sweet and savory treats are perfect for a spontaneous snack or dessert. With the natural sweetness of corn, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh corn kernels
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1 large egg
– Milk, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add the vegetable shortening and mix until crumbly.
4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Add milk as needed to achieve a smooth consistency.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the fresh corn kernels.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Peruvian-Style Stuffed Potatoes
Easy Peruvian-Style Stuffed Potatoes
Summary: Elevate your potato game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, inspired by the bold flavors of Peru.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Poke some holes in each potato using a fork or sharp object to allow steam to escape.
4. Bake the potatoes for about 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes.
6. Slit each potato open lengthwise, then fluff out the insides with a fork to make room for the filling.
7. In a bowl, mix together warmed black beans, chopped cilantro, grated cheese, lime juice, salt, and pepper (and garlic if using).
8. Stuff each potato with the bean-cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the four potatoes.
9. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Simple Arroz con Mariscos Seafood Rice
A flavorful and aromatic Spanish-inspired rice dish packed with succulent seafood, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams), cleaned and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add seafood; cook until pink and tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, water, saffron mixture, and salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
6. Fluff with a fork; garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Speedy Tallarines Verdes with Steak
This classic Argentine dish is a perfect blend of tender steak and flavorful green noodles. A quick and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb flank steak
– 8 oz tallarines verdes (green noodles)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook the tallarines verdes according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Grill or pan-fry the steak to desired doneness, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked spinach to the skillet and stir until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Slice the steak against the grain and serve with the green noodles and spinach mixture.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Effortless Peruvian-Style Fish Stew
Effortless Peruvian-Style Fish Stew Recipe
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Peruvian cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors and aromas, and this fish stew recipe captures the essence of that culture. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously hearty and flavorful meal in no time.
Ingredients:
—————-
– 1 pound whitefish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
—————–
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the fish, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the fish is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Fast Pollo a la Brasa with Garlic Sauce
Get ready for a flavorful and moist chicken dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe combines the richness of braised chicken with the pungency of garlic, all in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
5. Remove the foil and baste with chicken broth. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with Garlic Sauce (recipe below).
Garlic Sauce:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Summary
Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru with these 20 easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic dishes like Lomo Saltado with homemade fries to refreshing ceviche and comforting soups, this collection has something for everyone. Learn to make simple Peruvian staples like Papa a la Huancaina and Tacu Tacu with fried eggs, or try your hand at more adventurous recipes like Rocoto Relleno stuffed peppers and Tallarines Verdes with steak. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, this article has got you covered.
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