Lomo Saltado is one of Peru’s most iconic and flavorful dishes, combining elements of Peruvian and Chinese cuisine in a delightful stir-fry. This fusion dish Lomo Saltado originated from Peru’s Chinese immigrants, who incorporated their stir-frying techniques with native Peruvian ingredients. Lomo Saltado of Peru is characterized by its tender beef strips, sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and peppers, then combined with soy sauce and vinegar for a rich umami taste. The result is a delicious mix of juicy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that complement crispy French fries and fluffy rice.
A staple of Peruvian cuisine, Lomo Saltado is loved for its simplicity, speed of preparation, and ability to bring together a variety of textures. Whether enjoyed at home or in a restaurant, it remains a favorite among food lovers worldwide.
History of Lomo Saltado
Lomo Saltado has its roots in Peru’s rich history of cultural fusion, particularly influenced by Chinese immigrants who arrived in the country during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These immigrants, primarily from the Canton region, brought with them their culinary traditions, including the technique of stir-frying. Over time, they adapted their cooking methods to incorporate local Peruvian ingredients such as potatoes, tomatoes, and aji amarillo (Peruvian yellow chili).
This dish was originally known as "lomito de vaca" and evolved into what is now called Lomo Saltado, which translates to "jumped loin" or "stir-fried loin." It became a staple in chifa cuisine, a Peruvian-Chinese culinary tradition that emerged from the blending of Chinese and local Peruvian flavors. Today, Lomo Saltado is widely regarded as a national dish and is enjoyed throughout Peru and beyond.
Here is the recipe of Authentic Lomo Saltado of Peru.
Ingredients of Lomo Saltado Recipe
To prepare an authentic Lomo Saltado, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 medium red onion, sliced into thick wedges
- 2 medium Roma tomatoes, sliced into wedges
- 1 medium yellow or red bell pepper, julienned (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon aji amarillo paste (Peruvian yellow chili paste, for a mild heat)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water (if needed for extra sauce)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- Juice of 1/2 lime (for a fresh touch)
Side Dishes:
- 1 cup cooked white rice (for serving)
- 1 cup French fries (store-bought or homemade)
Instruction of Making Lomo Saltado
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
1. Cut the beef into thin strips, about 2 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear well.
2. Slice the vegetables: Cut the onions and tomatoes into thick wedges to retain their shape during cooking. Mince the garlic finely.
3. Prepare the French fries: If making homemade fries, cut potatoes into matchsticks, fry them until golden brown, and drain on paper towels.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
2. Add the beef strips, searing them quickly for 2-3 minutes until browned but still tender inside.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and reduce the heat to medium-high.
2. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3.Toss in the onions and bell peppers, stir-frying for about 2 minutes until slightly softened but still crisp.
4. Add the tomato wedges and cook for another minute, allowing them to soften slightly without becoming mushy.
Step 4: Combine and Season
1. Return the seared beef to the pan.
2. Add soy sauce, red wine vinegar, aji amarillo paste, oyster sauce, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
3. If needed, add beef broth or water to create a little more sauce.
4. Stir-fry for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Turn off the heat and squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
1. Place a generous portion of rice on a plate.
2. Top with the beef stir-fry, ensuring some of the sauce drizzles over the rice.
3. Serve with crispy French fries, either on the side or mixed into the stir-fry.
4. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness.
Serving Tips of Lomo Saltado
- Authentic Touch: To stay true to Peruvian tradition, use fresh Peruvian aji amarillo paste to enhance the dish’s unique spice and flavor.
- Customization: Adjust the spice level by adding more aji amarillo paste or fresh chili slices for extra heat.
- Crisp Fries: For the best texture, add French fries right before serving so they remain crispy.
- Pairing: Lomo Saltado pairs excellently with a glass of chicha morada(Peruvian purple corn drink) or a refreshing Pisco Sour.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with mushrooms, tofu, or seitan for a delicious meat-free version.
Conclusion
Lomo Saltado is a true testament to Peru’s rich culinary diversity, blending Chinese stir-fry techniques with traditional Peruvian ingredients. This hearty and satisfying dish delivers bold flavors, contrasting textures, and a comforting balance of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy notes. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking to explore Peruvian cuisine, Lomo Saltado is a must-try recipe that promises to impress every palate. Enjoy your homemade Peruvian delight!
Here are some Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) of Lomo Saltado
FAQ 1 : What type of beef is best for Lomo Saltado?
Tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin work best because they cook quickly and remain juicy.
FAQ 2 : Can I make Lomo Saltado without beef?
Yes! You can substitute beef with chicken, tofu, mushrooms, or seitan for a vegetarian version.
FAQ 3 : What makes Lomo Saltado unique?
Its fusion of Peruvian and Chinese cooking techniques, combining stir-frying with local Peruvian ingredients like aji amarillo and potatoes, makes it unique.
FAQ 4 : Can I use frozen fries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, store-bought frozen fries can be used, but homemade fries will give a fresher, crispier texture.
FAQ 5 : Is Lomo Saltado spicy?
It has mild heat from aji amarillo, but you can adjust the spice level to your preference.
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