Peruvian Food

Peruvian food comes from Peru, a country in South America. Peru has mountains, jungles, and coastline, which means it has many different ingredients to cook with. Peruvian cooking mixes ancient Incan traditions with flavors from Spain, Africa, China, and Japan. This blend makes Peruvian food one of the most exciting cuisines in the world.

Popular Peruvian Dishes

Ceviche is Peru's national dish. It is fresh raw fish that is "cooked" in lime juice. Lomo saltado is a stir-fry of beef, onions, and tomatoes served with rice and French fries. Aji de gallina is a creamy chicken dish with a spicy yellow pepper sauce. Causa is a layered potato dish filled with chicken or tuna.

Peru's Amazing Ingredients

Peru is home to over 3,000 different types of potatoes. The ancient Incas first grew potatoes in the mountains of Peru thousands of years ago. Peru also grows many kinds of corn, including purple corn used to make a sweet drink called chicha morada. Quinoa, a healthy grain, was also first grown in Peru and is now eaten all over the world.

Fun Facts

• Peru has over 3,000 varieties of potatoes, more than any other country.
• Ceviche has been made in Peru for over 2,000 years.
• Peru grows more than 55 varieties of corn in many different colors.

Did You Know?

Potatoes were first grown in Peru about 8,000 years ago before spreading to the rest of the world!