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The Best Comfort Foods to Try in Peru’s Highlands

Hearty dishes that warm you from the inside out

In Peru’s Andean highlands, food is more than just nourishment – it’s warmth, tradition, and community. Thanks to the altitude and chilly climate, comfort foods here are rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. These are some of the most beloved dishes you’ll find in the region.

1.Adobo Arequipeño

This traditional pork stew from Arequipa is marinated overnight in chicha de jora (fermented corn beer) with garlic, spices, and Peruvian chili peppers. It’s slow-cooked until tender and served with bread to soak up the flavorful broth. It’s typically enjoyed for breakfast or brunch, especially on Sundays.

2. Olluquito con Charqui

Made with olluco, a vibrant yellow Andean root vegetable, this dish is sautéed with onions, garlic, and spices, then combined with charqui – dried, salted llama or alpaca meat. It’s a staple in the highlands, offering a unique mix of earthy and savory flavors.

3. Pachamanca

Pachamanca is not just a dish – it’s a celebration. Meats like pork, chicken, and lamb are marinated with Andean herbs, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked underground over hot stones. Served with potatoes, corn, and tamales, pachamanca is often prepared for special gatherings and festivals.

4. Caldo de Gallina

A comforting chicken soup, caldo de gallina is served steaming hot with thick noodles, potatoes, boiled eggs, and sometimes rice. It’s simple, nourishing, and known for its restorative qualities, especially after a long day of hiking or exploring the mountains.

5. Chupe de Quinua

This hearty quinoa stew is packed with vegetables, milk, cheese, and herbs, making it both nutritious and filling. In many households, it’s enjoyed as a weeknight dinner, and quinoa’s high protein content makes it a favorite among locals living at high altitudes.

Cook with us!

The heart of Andean cooking is found in its warmth, simplicity, and deep connection to the land. Rooted in tradition and shaped by generations of home cooks, these dishes reflect the strength and soul of Peru’s highland communities.

Cook in Peru offers an opportunity to explore this rich culinary heritage in a hands-on experience alongside a local chef. In a welcoming kitchen setting, you will prepare traditional dishes from scratch, learning techniques and stories that bring the Andes to life through food.

Step into the kitchen and discover the true taste of the Andes.