Discover Cusqueñan Gastronomy: Traditional Dishes You Must Try

Cusco, October 2, 2024

Cusco is not only a historical and cultural gem but also a top-notch gastronomic destination. Cusqueñan cuisine is a delicious blend of native ingredients and ancestral culinary techniques combined with colonial influences. If you visit Cusco, you cannot miss trying these traditional dishes that will connect you with the essence of the Andes. Here are some of the most representative dishes and where to enjoy them.

1. Baked Cuy
   Cuy (guinea pig) is one of the most iconic and ancient dishes in Cusqueñan cuisine. This dish, baked in the oven, is served whole, accompanied by potatoes, corn, and huacatay sauce. Although its appearance may surprise some visitors, the flavor is unique, making it an unforgettable culinary experience.

Where to try it: At La Cusqueñita, La Quinta, Emiliana, etc.

2. Stuffed Rocoto
   Stuffed rocoto is a spicy pepper, typical of Peru, filled with ground meat, raisins, and cheese, all covered in a creamy sauce and baked to perfection. This dish is ideal for those seeking a bit of heat and a lot of flavor.

Where to try it: At La Cusqueñita, La Quinta, Emiliana, etc.

3. Chiri Uchu
   Chiri Uchu is a festive dish and one of the most complex in Cusqueñan cuisine. Served cold, it combines various flavors and textures, including ingredients like cuy, toasted corn (cancha), seaweed, rocoto, cheese, and sausage. This dish is usually enjoyed during Corpus Christi celebrations, but it can be found year-round.

Where to try it: For an authentic experience, visit La Cusqueñita.

4. Baked Pork (Lechón)
   Lechón (pork) is another Cusqueñan specialty you shouldn’t miss. Slowly roasted in the oven, lechón is served with golden potatoes, sweet potatoes, and tamales, making it a rich and satisfying meal, perfect for colder days.

Where to try it: For excellent lechón, try Pachapapa in the San Blas neighborhood or various restaurants around Cusco’s main square.

5. Chicken Broth (Caldo de Gallina)
   Perfect for restoring energy after a day of exploration, chicken broth is a robust and flavorful soup made with chicken, noodles, potatoes, and a boiled egg. It is one of the most popular and comforting soups in Cusco, enjoyed both for breakfast and dinner.

Where to try it: San Pedro Market is known for its homemade version of this broth, but you can also visit La Cusqueñita.

6. Lomo Saltado
   Although originally from the coast, lomo saltado has become a classic in Cusqueñan cuisine. This stir-fry of beef strips with onions, tomatoes, and French fries, served with rice, blends Peruvian flavors with Asian influences, creating a tasty dish full of tradition.

Where to try it: You can find lomo saltado at almost any restaurant in Cusco, but at the Mabey Urubamba hotel restaurant, we also offer this signature dish on our menu.

7. Picarones
   To finish off your culinary experience in Cusco, picarones are a classic dessert you cannot miss. These pumpkin and sweet potato doughnuts, drizzled with cane syrup, are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for ending a meal with a sweet touch.

Where to try it: At Nuna Raymi.

We look forward to welcoming you at Mabey Hotels with two locations: Cusco city and Urubamba!

Book now: +51984672007