7 Things You Need to Know about Peruvian Cuisine
                     7 Things You Need to Know
about Peruvian Cuisine
Peruvian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors and culinary traditions, 
reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the country. Here are seven 
essential aspects of Peruvian cuisine that make it unique and exciting:
1. Cultural Fusion
Peruvian cuisine is a product of centuries of cultural fusion. Indigenous 
Incan ingredients and techniques blend with Spanish, African, Chinese, 
and Japanese influences, creating a diverse and rich culinary tradition. 
This fusion is evident in dishes like Lomo Saltado, a stir-fry that marries 
Chinese stir-frying techniques with Peruvian ingredients like beef, 
tomatoes, and potatoes.
2. Ceviche: A National Treasure
Ceviche is Peru’s national dish and a must-try for anyone exploring 
Peruvian cuisine. This dish features raw fish marinated in freshly squeezed
lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers, and served with 
sides like sweet potato and Peruvian corn. At El Gordo, you can 
experience Ceviche de Pescado and Ceviche Mixto, which add shrimp, 
calamari, octopus, and mussels to the mix, offering a fresh and zesty 
explosion of flavors.
3. Potato Diversity
Peru is the birthplace of the potato, home to over 4,000 varieties. This 
incredible diversity is showcased in many traditional dishes. Papa a la 
Huancaina features boiled potatoes in a spicy cheese sauce made with 
Aji Amarillo, while Causa Rellena layers yellow whipped potatoes with 
avocado and tuna or chicken salad. These dishes highlight the versatility 
and importance of potatoes in Peruvian cuisine.
4. Superfoods from the Andes
Peru is renowned for its superfoods, many of which have been cultivated 
since the time of the Incas. Quinoa, a protein-rich grain, is a staple in 
many dishes and is celebrated for its health benefits. Other Peruvian 
superfoods include maca, a root vegetable believed to enhance energy 
and stamina, and lucuma, a fruit used in desserts for its sweet, maple-like 
flavor.
5. Aji Peppers: The Heart of Peruvian Spice
Aji peppers, particularly Aji Amarillo, are central to Peruvian cooking. 
These bright yellow peppers add a unique fruity heat to dishes and are a 
key ingredient in many traditional recipes. Aji de Gallina, a creamy 
chicken dish, and Huancaina Sauce, a cheese sauce served over 
potatoes, both rely on the distinctive flavor of Aji Amarillo to achieve their 
authentic taste.
6. Corn: A Staple in Many Forms
Corn is another cornerstone of Peruvian cuisine, available in a variety of 
forms. Choclo, a large-kernel corn, is often served as a side dish, while 
Cancha, toasted corn nuts, are a popular snack. Corn also features in 
drinks like Chicha Morada, a sweet beverage made from purple corn, 
and Chicha de Jora, a traditional corn beer. These variations highlight 
the versatility of corn in Peruvian cooking.
7. Pisco: Peru’s Signature Spirit
Pisco, a grape brandy, is Peru’s national spirit and the star ingredient in 
the iconic Pisco Sour. This cocktail combines Pisco with lime juice, simple
syrup, egg white, and Angostura bitters, creating a refreshing and tangy 
drink. Pisco is also enjoyed in other cocktails like the Chilcano and Pisco 
Punch, each offering a different take on this beloved spirit.
Experience Authentic Peruvian Cuisine at El Gordo
For those looking to immerse themselves in authentic Peruvian flavors in 
New Jersey, El Gordo Peruvian Restaurant in Union and Passaic is the 
perfect destination. Their menu features a wide range of traditional 
dishes, such as Lomo Saltado, Aji de Gallina, Arroz con Pollo y 
Huancaina, and Chaufa de Mariscos. Each dish is prepared with care, 
using authentic ingredients and traditional recipes, ensuring a true 
Peruvian culinary experience.
El Gordo also offers a selection of appetizers like Papa Rellena, 
Salchipapa, and Anticucho, providing a delicious introduction to the 
diverse world of Peruvian cuisine. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of 
Peruvian food or a curious newcomer, El Gordo offers a culinary journey 
that captures the essence of Peru’s rich and vibrant food culture.
By exploring these dishes, you'll not only satisfy your taste buds but also 
gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical influences that 
make Peruvian cuisine so unique and special.