Cusco, a charming city located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, is not only known for its stunning Incan ruins and vibrant culture, but also for its delicious and diverse street food scene. From savory empanadas to refreshing fruit juices, Cusco offers a wide array of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to delight any foodie’s palate. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best street food options to try in Cusco.
Anticuchos
One of the most popular street foods in Cusco is anticuchos, which are skewers of marinated and grilled beef hearts. This Peruvian delicacy has its roots in Incan cuisine and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The beef hearts are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, and spices, then skewered and grilled to perfection. Anticuchos are typically served with boiled potatoes and a spicy peanut sauce, making for a savory and satisfying meal that is perfect for enjoying on the go.
Empanadas
Another must-try street food in Cusco is empanadas, which are savory turnovers filled with a variety of ingredients such as beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables. These handheld treats are perfect for snacking on while exploring the city’s winding streets and bustling markets. Empanadas in Cusco are typically made with a flaky pastry dough and filled with a flavorful mixture of meat, cheese, and vegetables, then fried to golden perfection. Be sure to try different varieties of empanadas to experience the full range of flavors that Cusco has to offer.
Papas Rellenas
Papas rellenas, or stuffed potatoes, are another popular street food in Cusco that are not to be missed. These tasty treats consist of mashed potatoes filled with a savory mixture of meat, onions, and spices, then fried until crispy. Papas rellenas are often served with a side of salsa criolla, a zesty Peruvian condiment made with onions, tomatoes, and lime juice. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or a satisfying meal, papas rellenas are a delicious and satisfying street food option in Cusco.
Choclo con queso
Choclo con queso, or boiled corn with cheese, is a simple yet flavorful street food that is a favorite among locals in Cusco. This dish features large kernels of corn that are boiled until tender, then served with a generous portion of creamy cheese. Choclo con queso is a popular street food option that can be enjoyed as a light snack or as part of a larger meal. The combination of sweet corn and salty cheese makes for a delicious and satisfying treat that is sure to please your taste buds.
Tamales
Tamales are a traditional Peruvian street food that are available in various regions of the country, including Cusco. These savory parcels consist of corn dough filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until tender. Tamales are a popular street food option in Cusco that can be enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal on the go. Be sure to try different varieties of tamales, such as chicken, pork, or vegetarian, to experience the full range of flavors that this traditional dish has to offer.
Churros
For those with a sweet tooth, churros are a popular street food option in Cusco that are sure to satisfy your cravings. These fried dough pastries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are often coated in cinnamon sugar for a sweet and flavorful finish. Churros are typically served with a side of dulce de leche, a rich and creamy caramel sauce that is perfect for dipping. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, churros are a delicious and indulgent street food option that is not to be missed in Cusco.
Fresh fruit juices
No trip to Cusco would be complete without trying the fresh fruit juices that are available at the city’s many street vendors. From tangy passion fruit to sweet papaya, Cusco offers a wide array of tropical fruits that can be enjoyed in refreshing juice form. Many street vendors in Cusco offer blended fruit juices that are made with fresh fruits and ice, making for a cool and revitalizing treat on a hot day. Be sure to try different fruit combinations to experience the full range of flavors that Cusco has to offer.
In conclusion, Cusco is a city that is not only rich in history and culture, but also in delicious street food options. From savory anticuchos to sweet churros, Cusco offers a diverse range of street food that is sure to delight any foodie’s palate. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a satisfying meal, the street food scene in Cusco has something for everyone. So be sure to explore the city’s bustling markets and winding streets to discover some of the best street food options that Cusco has to offer.
