Recipes

ACL recipes Peru

Name: acl recipes peru
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 lb fresh, firm white fish (e.g., sea bass, tilapia); 1 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1-2 aji peppers (or substitute with jalapeño), finely chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Sweet potato, boiled and sliced (for serving); Corn kernels, boiled (for serving); 1 lb beef tenderloin, sliced into strips; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 tomato, sliced; 2 aji peppers, sliced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vinegar; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped; Cooked rice (for serving); French fries (for serving)

Sandra J

February 20, 2024
5 min read

Peru, a country with a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and, most importantly, flavors, offers a culinary experience like no other. The cuisine of Peru is a beautiful blend of its indigenous heritage, Spanish colonial influences, and the flavors brought by immigrants from Africa, Asia, and Europe. This melting pot of culinary traditions has given rise to a unique and vibrant cuisine that is both diverse and delicious. Among the myriad of dishes that Peru offers, there are a few that stand out not only for their flavors but also for their cultural significance. These are the dishes that tell the story of Peru, a story of resilience, community, and innovation. As an experienced food recipe blogger, I have had the pleasure of exploring these dishes and am excited to share with you some of the most iconic ACL (Andean, Coastal, and Lima) recipes from Peru.

Peruvian cuisine is characterized by its variety of ingredients, which include corn, potatoes (with over 3,000 varieties native to Peru), quinoa, and aji peppers, which provide its distinctive spice. The geography of Peru, with its mountains, plains, and coastline, contributes to this variety, offering a bounty of fresh produce and seafood. Lima, the capital, is not only the political and economic heart of the country but also its culinary soul. It is in Lima where the traditional and the modern merge to create dishes that are both homage to the past and a nod to the future.

One of the most celebrated Peruvian dishes is Ceviche, a perfect representation of coastal cuisine that combines fresh fish marinated in citrus juices with onions, cilantro, and aji peppers. Another iconic dish is Lomo Saltado, which reflects the fusion of Peruvian and Chinese culinary traditions, featuring stir-fried beef, vegetables, and a flavorful soy sauce-based marinade, served over rice or with fries. From the Andean region, we have dishes like Pachamanca, a traditional method of cooking meat, potatoes, and other foods in an earthen oven, which is not just a cooking technique but a communal celebration of harvest and heritage.

The beauty of Peruvian cuisine lies not just in its flavors but in its ability to bring people together, to tell a story, and to create a sense of identity and pride. It is a cuisine that is both deeply traditional and constantly evolving, embracing new influences while staying rooted in its history. In this blog post, we will delve into some of these iconic ACL recipes, exploring the ingredients, the directions for preparation, and serving suggestions that will allow you to bring the taste of Peru into your home.

Whether you are a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, these recipes are designed to be accessible and enjoyable. They are more than just instructions for preparing food; they are invitations to explore a culture, to taste history, and to participate in a culinary tradition that is as rich and diverse as the country itself. So, let us embark on this flavorful journey through the heart of Peru, discovering the dishes that make this cuisine so beloved and celebrated around the world.

acl recipes peru

Recipe by Sandra J

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Ingredients

Ceviche
1 lb fresh, firm white fish (e.g., sea bass, tilapia)
1 cup lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 red onion, thinly sliced
1-2 aji peppers (or substitute with jalapeño), finely chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Sweet potato, boiled and sliced (for serving)
Corn kernels, boiled (for serving)
Lomo Saltado:
1 lb beef tenderloin, sliced into strips
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 red onion, sliced
1 tomato, sliced
2 aji peppers, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped
Cooked rice (for serving)
French fries (for serving)

Directions

Ceviche:
In a glass bowl, combine the fish with lime juice, ensuring the fish is completely covered. Refrigerate for about 15-20 minutes until the fish is “cooked” by the acidity of the lime.
Add the sliced red onion, aji peppers, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine.
Let it marinate for an additional 10 minutes in the refrigerator.
Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
Lomo Saltado:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the beef and stir-fry until browned but still pink inside. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onions, tomatoes, aji peppers, and garlic for about 2 minutes.
Return the beef to the skillet. Add soy sauce, vinegar, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Just before serving, mix in fresh cilantro.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Peruvian dishes, presentation plays a key role in enhancing the overall dining experience. Ceviche, with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors, is best served in a clear, shallow dish that showcases the beautiful marination of the fish. Accompany it with slices of sweet potato and boiled corn kernels to add sweetness and texture, balancing the acidity of the lime juice. A side of crispy plantain chips or toasted corn can add a delightful crunch. For a truly authentic experience, serve Ceviche chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.

Lomo Saltado, on the other hand, is a hearty and comforting dish that demands a more rustic presentation. Serve it on a warm plate, with the stir-fried beef and vegetables piled high. The addition of French fries, either mixed in or on the side, adds a delightful contrast in textures. A generous portion of cooked rice serves as the perfect base to soak up the delicious juices. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro to brighten the dish and add a hint of freshness.

These dishes are not just meals; they are experiences that invite you to explore the depths of Peruvian culture. They are perfect for gatherings, allowing guests to delve into a world of flavors and stories. Whether served at a casual family dinner or a festive celebration, these recipes are sure to impress and delight.

Conclusion

Peruvian cuisine is a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and its people’s ability to innovate and embrace diversity. Through the simple act of sharing a meal, we can travel to Peru, experiencing its history, its landscapes, and its spirit. The ACL recipes from Peru shared here are but a glimpse into the vast and vibrant world of Peruvian cooking, offering an opportunity to explore and enjoy the flavors that make this cuisine so unique and beloved.

As we conclude our culinary journey, we are reminded that food is more than just sustenance; it is a language of its own, capable of telling stories, connecting people, and celebrating culture. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, I encourage you to explore the rich flavors of Peru through ACL recipes. Let these recipes inspire you, challenge you, and bring you joy. For in the act of cooking and sharing food, we find a universal connection, a sense of belonging, and a reminder of the beauty that lies in diversity.