Peru boasts a long coastline that brings numerous options for tourism. However, one of its greatest advantages is its strong influence on Peruvian cuisine. Thousands of tourists delight in its dishes because local tradition deeply roots them. Furthermore, the incomparable abundance of fresh ingredients, particularly seafood, enables the creation of unique and delicious recipes.
From the popular ceviche to dishes like parihuela, we’re sure you’ll find one you’ll love. The flavors and types of preparation vary, but each dish offers an authentic experience. Therefore, the Machu Travel Peru team prepared a short article on the best and most popular Peruvian dishes. Remember that local chefs never pass up an opportunity to create delicious food, and seafood dishes are no exception.
10 best seafood dishes of the Andean country
- Ceviche
- Arroz con mariscos
- Jalea
- Parihuela
- Escabeche de pescado
- Choritos a la chalaca
- Pulpo a la oliva
- Chupe de camarones
- Tiradito
- Conchitas a la parmesana
Ceviche
No list of Peruvian cuisine is complete without mentioning the iconic ceviche, the Andean country’s national dish. This delicacy is one of the reasons this destination is proud. Likewise, it’s a dish that perfectly combines various flavors and textures. Therefore, it has become a must-see experience if you visit any of its many attractions.
The Peruvian ceviche recipe is somewhat specific, but there are several variations. However, the classic one includes slices of fish seasoned with salt, onion, and chili peppers. Despite having several ingredients, the star of the dish is the fish, as it must be fresh. Besides, today, chefs usually prepare it in a few minutes and don’t require much additional preparation.
Arroz con mariscos
Rice is one of the main ingredients in many Peruvian dishes, serving as a staple side dish. Thus, it’s unsurprising that they decided to blend Peruvian seafood with rice, resulting in a delectable meal. In coastal cities, it’s one of the most popular and typical dishes to try during your stay. Many approaches to delight in the main cities, but you can do it in even the unpopular destinations.
While the cooking technique differs significantly by region and cook, seafood remains indispensable. It also typically has a unique flavor of local chilies and an exceptional base of well-seasoned fish. Besides, its characteristic creaminess perfectly complements the entire experience. Whether you enjoy it in a sophisticated restaurant or a casual setting, we fully agree that you’ll love it.
Jalea
Jalea has gained popularity in recent years because it’s a perfect option for enjoying multiple proteins in one dish. Coastal cities refer to a lightly breaded and fried seafood dish as jalea. Although a wide variety of fish can fit in, people usually serve fried plantains as the side dish. Additionally, many restaurants in Peru serve it with a Creole salad that includes onion, ají amarillo, tomato, and cilantro.
Parihuela
Those passionate about soups will find an excellent option: the delicious parihuela. This is a spicy and hearty seafood dish with a distinctive aroma, flavor, and color. Although the fishing community created it, today it is one of the most famous dishes among coastal locals. When you travel to Peru, you should try it at least once, especially to round off a long day by the sea.
Parihuela recipes generally use local white fish as the main ingredient for its firmness. Its distinctive flavor comes from aji panca, a reddish Peruvian chili. Among the main seasonings are cumin, coriander, ginger, and lime juice. Although we need many ingredients and the preparation can be difficult, it is completely worth it.
Escabeche de pescado
When we mention Peruvian fusion food, it’s inevitable to mention the distinctive fish escabeche. This is one of the dishes that has a strong foreign influence, including African, Arabic, and Spanish influences. Although its origin may seem unknown, its main cooking technique, pickling, is centuries old.
The protagonists of this dish are Peruvian chili peppers and vinegar for their main preparation. Fish also plays a fundamental role as the main protein in the dish, with a more neutral flavor. A hard-boiled egg, lettuce, and black olives usually accompany it, creating a complete delight for the palate. Although you can eat this dish hot without problem, experts recommend serving it cold.
Choritos a la chalaca
Choritos a la chalaca is a Peruvian dish originating from its main port, Callao. In this country, the word “choritos” refers to mussels, while “a la chalaca” means “Callao-style”, hence its distinctive name. Although chefs have reworked the recipe in recent years, many today prefer the classic. The dish is prepared by steaming mussels and then coating them with a spicy sauce of tomato, corn, chili pepper, onion, lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley.
Pulpo a la oliva
Although it can be an appetizer or a main course, this Peruvian seafood is one of the most delicate. We refer to the pulpo al olivo (olive pulp), octopus smothered in a creamy olive sauce. However, there are many variations, but there is a classic recipe. The other ingredients that we can mention are lime, olive oil, eggs, and garlic.
Boil the octopus until it becomes tender, then cut it into bite-sized pieces. You can prepare the classic sauce like a kind of olive mayonnaise, which perfectly complements the protein. Likewise, restaurants typically serve the dish cold, and the combination of textures and flavors truly satisfies. We also recommend pairing this Peruvian delicacy with potatoes or another side dish.
Chupe de camarones
Chupe de Camarones is a classic Peruvian soup with a long history. People once called the dish chuwa misa and prepared it on special religious occasions from the 16th century. In recent years, historians have revealed that this dish evolved from the thick stew prepared in the city of Arequipa. However, despite its history, it is currently one of the most popular dishes among the local community.
Chefs prepare this delicacy with a delicious fish broth and fresh shrimp as its main ingredients. However, the use of other ingredients varies depending on the cooking style and the chef’s preference. Many people often prefer ingredients such as eggs, cheese, garlic, and yellow potatoes. If you plan to make the most of tourism in Peru, you cannot miss out on this traditional delicacy.
Tiradito
Tiradito is a traditional dish served as a delicate appetizer. It consists of thin slices of raw fish marinated in a citrus sauce. Although people widely use horse mackerel, the most popular fish in Peru, salmon makes a better choice for this dish. Likewise, the most important thing is that the fish is fresh.
On the other hand, this dish stands out for its mild flavor and a hint of lemon. Unlike ceviche, chefs do not marinate tiradito, and they add lemon juice just before serving. Today, some specialists garnish it with onions, jalapeños, or even cooked corn. Preparing it well requires technique, but it’s worth it.
Conchitas a la parmesana
As we mentioned earlier, conchitas refer to scallops, and this dish is no exception. Conchitas a la parmesana (Parmesan shells) is a traditional dish usually eaten as an appetizer on special occasions. This dish consists of scallops covered with Parmesan cheese and grilled for just a few minutes. Despite its simple preparation, the result is completely satisfying and irresistible if you visit the Peruvian coast.
They also serve it immediately, hot, and ideally with lime wedges on the side. When served, the cheese should be bubbling, but the scallops will remain almost raw. However, many chefs add other ingredients to give it more depth, textures, and flavors. Whether you enjoy it in a fine restaurant or prepare it at home, it’s a delicious experience for anyone.
“THE SEA AND ITS TREASURES WILL SURPRISE YOU MORE AND MORE”
As we could see, in Peru you eat a wide variety of seafood, from local fish to various seafood of sizes and colors. Therefore, he will find a wide range of both unique and delicious dishes. From the classic Peru’s National Dish to fried fish, one will find one that fits what you are looking for. The Machu Travel Peru team hopes to bring you accurate information to know this part of the amazing cuisine.
Peru has so much to offer; it can be hard to know where to start. With many years of experience in the tourism sector, Machu Travel Peru is happy to help with anything regarding your trip to Machu Picchu and any tours around it. Make your Machu Picchu experience an unforgettable one! Contact us today to plan your dream adventure!
