Peru’s independence is celebrated across the nation on July 28th and 29th, these days are known as “Fiestas Patrias”. If you can’t physically be in Peru to participate in the celebrations, you can visit your nearest Peruvian restaurant and let your taste buds take you on a culinary journey.
Here are 3 Peruvian dishes to try during Fiestas Patrias and where to find them:
Lomo Saltado
If you ask someone what Peruvian dish they’ve eaten, chances are they have enjoyed a classic plate of lomo saltado. Lomo Saltado is a dish originally created in the early 19th century by Chinese chefs on the streets of Lima. Composed of sauteed beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, served on a bed of rice, Lomo Saltado is the perfect dish for any picky eater.
To have a delicious plate of Lomo Saltado, head over to Mario’s on Melrose. Located at 5786 Melrose Ave, Mario’s is one of the top all round Peruvian restaurants in Los Angeles.
Ceviche
Peruvian ceviche is the original ceviche. Invented by the Moche people, ceviche is a fish dish guaranteed to leave your taste buds wanting more. This seafood dish cooks raw fish in fresh lime juice and is served with pieces of sweet potato, corn, and a red onion relish.
To try the original ceviche, head over to one of the two Rocoto locations. Located at 1358 W. Artesia blvd, Gardena or at 11433 South st Cerritos.
Pan con Chicharron
Pan con Chicharrón is a Peruvian street food staple. Typically eaten for breakfast, the sandwich is made up of lightly seasoned fried pieces of pork, crunchy slices of sweet potato, topped with a red onion relish and served on a warm bread roll.
For the best Pan con Chicharron, drive down to Venice Beach and visit El Huarique. Located at 1301 Ocean Front Walk, Los Angeles, this Pan con Chicharron is guaranteed to blow you away!
Influenced by the Chinese, Japanese, Italian and African cultures, Peruvian gastronomy is one of a kind. So it comes as no surprise that Peru has won the title of World’s Leading Culinary destination 9 years in a row… but I’ll let the food do the talking.
