Simple Peruvian Lomo Saltado Recipe

This lomo saltado recipe is for a classic Peruvian dish that brings together incredible flavors, ingredients, and a fusion of cooking techniques. A Peruvian beef stir fry dish, it combines steak, onions, tomatoes and French fries, served with a side of rice. This traditional Peruvian dish will tantalize your taste bud

What is Lomo Saltado?

Lomo Saltado is one of the most emblematic and traditional dishes in Peru. It is a traditional Peruvian dish that combines elements of Chinese and Peruvian cuisine. 

This beloved dish is made by stir-frying strips of beef with onions, tomato, ají amarillo peppers, and flavored with soy sauce and vinegar. It is typically served with French fries and rice.

While Ceviche is one of Peru’s most famous dishes around the world, lomo saltado is the most popular comfort food made with meat.

It’s incredibly tasty and one of our favorite Peruvian foods. We’re excited to share this simple lomo saltado recipe.

History of Peruvian Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado, a popular Peruvian beef stir fry dish, dates back to the late 19th century when Chinese immigrants settled in Peru.

Bringing their culinary influences with them, they adapted their cooking techniques to the local ingredients. And, they also introduced new ingredients like soy sauce, scallions and ginger.

The culinary fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cuisines is known as “Chifa,” and there are thousands of Chifa restaurants across the country.

The name “Lomo Saltado” roughly translates to “jumping beef,” which refers to the stir-frying method of cooking the dish.

Today, lomo saltado is considered one of Peru’s national dishes. While it is a traditional Peruvian food, it’s a fusion of Chinese and Peruvian cultures.

RELATED: Chifa Peru: 5 Authentic Chinese Peruvian Foods To Crave For

Discovering Lomo Saltado in Peru

Lomo Saltado was one of the first Peruvian dishes we had while exploring the food in Peru and it quickly became a favorite.

We never missed an opportunity to savor the incredible flavors and ingredients of this popular and iconic Peruvian dish.

Lomo Saltado is enjoyed in homes and restaurants across the country. One of our favorite places to eat lomo saltado was at the local markets. 

For less than 5 Peruvian soles (approx $1.54 USD), a soup for a starter, lomo saltado for the main meal, and an Inca Kola drink.

There’s a reason lomo saltado is one Peru’s most popular dishes. With this simple Peruvian lomo saltado recipe, you too, will discover its amazing fusion of flavors.

AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: After spending about 6 months exploring the food in South America, we published our book about Peruvian food specialties. In our book, we cover the regional specialties including Lomo Saltado and more. Read more about authentic Peruvian dishes, drinks and desserts in Authentic Food Quest Peru, available on Amazon.

Lomo Saltado Recipe – How To Make Peruvian Lomo Saltado at Home

Making this lomo saltado recipe is quite easy, and the dish comes together quickly. The key is to prepare the French fries and rice ahead of time. 

The beef only takes a few minutes to cook, so you want to have everything ready ahead of time.

For this recipe, the main lomo saltado ingredients you need are

• Beef tenderloin or sirloin
• Ají amarillo paste or Peruvian yellow chili peppers
• Potatoes
• Rice
• Soy sauce
• Vinegar
• Corn starch
• Garlic cloves
• Green onions
• Red onion
• Tomatoes

Lomo Saltado Recipe Tips

To enjoy the full flavors of your absolutely delicious lomo saltado recipe, here are a few simple tips to guarantee success.

• Slice the ingredients evenly:  This ensures they all cook at the same rate and maintain their texture.

• Preheat your skillet or wok over high heat: A hot pan will allow you to sear the beef, adding even more depth of flavor to the dish.

• Don’t overcrowd your pan while cooking your ingredients. Cook the beef and vegetables in batches to allow them to brown and remain crispy.

What Cut of Beef is Lomo?

Lomo Saltado can be made with various types of beef. Tender cuts like tenderloin and sirloin are the most commonly used. 

You can also use flank and skirt steak, but they aren’t as naturally tender.

If you are using a less tender cut of beef, the secret is to marinate your beef ahead of time.

Common marinade ingredients for Lomo Saltado include soy sauce, garlic, and spices.  

For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate your beef for at least a few hours, or even overnight, in the refrigerator before cooking.

AUTHENTIC FOOD QUEST TIP: For high-quality and pasture raised meats, we recommend Snake River Farms. Working with small family ranches across the country, Snake River Farms delivers meat from grass-fed, hormone-free, sustainably raised cattle and pigs. Enjoy the best flavor and quality of meat from your Lomo Saltado recipe with Snake River Farms. Save even more, you can use code AFQ10 at checkout on all orders $50+.

How Do You Cut Meat for Lomo Saltado?

There is a two-step process to cut the meat for your lomo saltado recipe. You start by cutting it lengthwise and then crosswise.

Using a sharp kitchen knife, cut the beef lengthwise along the grain in the same direction as the muscle fibers.

Next, cut the slices diagonally or crosswise across the grain into even bite-sized pieces.

How to Serve Lomo Saltado

In Peru, the obligatory sides that accompany stir fried beef are white rice and homemade thick-cut French fries.

To serve, place the fries in the middle of the plate and top with the beef stir fry and vegetables. In this recipe, we sprinkle green onions over the Peruvian beef stir fry. 

Serve with a side of white rice and enjoy while warm.

Where to Buy Aji Amarillo

Ají Amarillo is also available as Ají Amarillo paste is a yellow chili pepper that is a key ingredient in this Peruvian stir fried beef recipe. 

You can easily find Aji Amarillo paste at ethnic grocery stores in the Latin American aisles. 

If you do not have access to international grocery stores in your area, you can find Aji Amarillo paste on Amazon.

What If I Don’t Have Aji Amarillo Peppers?

If you’re unable to find aji amarillo peppers, here are a few alternatives you can consider to replicate their flavor profile in your recipe:

• Substitute aji amarillo pepper for aji amarillo paste, which you can you can purchase online or at an ethnic grocery store.

• Choose alternative peppers like Anaheim or banana peppers, which provide some heat without being overly spicy.

RELATED: 10 of The Best Cookbook Holders To Equip Your Kitchen 

Lomo Saltado Step by Step Instructions

Slice and Stir Fry Beef

Slice the beef lengthwise and then cut into smaller, even-sized pieces. In a large skillet or wok, cook the beef slices over high heat for two to three minutes until browned on all sides.

Cook French Fries and Rice

Start by peeling and slicing the potatoes into thick slices. Fry the potato slices in batches over high heat until golden brown and crispy. In a separate saucepan, cook the rice for about 15 to 20 minutes until all the water is absorbed.

Saute Vegetables and Mix With Beef

Saute the sliced vegetables in a hot skillet. Cook the red onions, yellow chili peppers, and tomatoes until they are slightly softened but still crisp. Add the previously cooked beef to the skillet with vegetables and mix. Add cornstarch, vinegar, and soy sauce mixture and cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and vegetables evenly.

More Local Food Experiences and Recipes

Peru Foods: 20 Must-Try Authentic Dishes

7 Must-Try Cooking Classes in Lima To Discover Peru’s Flavor

Is Snake River Farms Worth It? Review of SRF Beef, Pork, and Seafood

Recipe To Make An Authentic Peruvian Pisco Sour

Maca Drink from Peru: A Guide to The Incas Superfood (With Recipe)

The Easy Way to Make Peruvian Mazamorra Morada Dessert