The Must-Try Iconic Dishes in Peru, Bolivia and Brasil

discovertheheartof
Jun 6
4 min read

Travelling through South America isn’t just about discovering stunning landscapes, cultures and traditions – it’s also a journey through some of the most fascinating culinary experiences in the world. Each country boasts a cuisine that reflects centuries of history, cultural blending and a unique national identity.

Our travelers receive a tailored "what to eat" list of recommended places in each of our tours destinations, considering their dietary restrictions. Explore our tours https://www.dhosa.travel/tours

Here we present the most iconic dishes of Peru, Bolivia and Brasil – and why you absolutely must try them on your next South American adventure.

Perú

Ceviche

Peruvian ceviche is considered a national symbol and has been recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. It’s a refreshing dish made with raw fish marinated in lime juice, ají limo (chilli) and onion, typically served with crunchy corn and sweet potato. You must try ceviche in Peru to experience the essence of the sea and coastal tradition – and taste the dish that made Peru world-renowned for its gastronomy.

Ají de gallina

Ají de Gallina is a creamy stew made with shredded chicken, yellow chilli (ají amarillo), bread soaked in milk, and served with potato, rice, and a boiled egg. Its origins trace back to the Spanish manjar blanco from the 14th century, which was transformed in Peru using native ingredients such as ají amarillo, giving the dish its signature colour and flavour.

You should try it because it’s a true expression of Peru’s cultural fusion — a recipe that brings together history, tradition, and taste. It’s a dish enjoyed both in everyday life and during family celebrations.

Lomo saltado

Lomo Saltado is a stir-fry of beef with onions, tomatoes, and soy sauce, served with rice and chips. It originated in the late 19th century, influenced by Chinese immigrants who brought wok cooking techniques, which were then fused with Peruvian ingredients.

Today, it’s one of Peru’s most beloved dishes because it represents the perfect blend of cultures and culinary techniques. You must try it to appreciate not only the creativity of Peruvian cuisine, but also its ability to merge diverse cultures into one truly delicious dish.

Bolivia

Salteñas

Originally from Potosí, the salteña is a juicy empanada that comes in spicy and mild versions, filled with meat, chicken or vegetables, hard-boiled egg, and spices. What truly sets it apart from other empanadas is its rich, savoury broth inside. Its name comes from a cook born in Salta, Argentina, who popularised the recipe in Potosí.

You should try it because eating a salteña means enjoying a culinary tradition that has crossed generations and regions, and is an essential part of Bolivia’s popular culture.

Sopa de Maní

Sopa de Maní (Peanut Soup) is one of Bolivia’s most traditional and beloved dishes, considered a national culinary symbol. It’s a creamy soup made with ground peanuts, broth, meat, vegetables, rice, and macaroni-style noodles, served with very thin fried potatoes that add a crunchy touch.

You should try this peanut soup because it offers a true taste of Bolivian culture. It’s widely enjoyed in both homes and traditional or gourmet restaurants, and it’s well known for its unique flavour and delightful mix of textures.

Majadito

Majadito is a traditional dish from Santa Cruz, made with rice, dried beef (charque), fried plantain, and spices. It’s a hearty and deeply representative meal of eastern Bolivian cuisine.

You should try it because it blends native ingredients in a recipe that is part of the region’s identity and culinary heritage.

Brasil

Feijoada

Feijoada is a stew made with black beans and various types of meat, considered Brazil’s national dish. It has its roots in the food of African slaves and has evolved into a festive and widely popular dish across the country. You should try it because it’s part of Brazilian culture – a unique and iconic dish in its gastronomy.

Açaí

The açaí bowl is one of the most popular and healthy preparations made with the açaí fruit, which originates from the Brazilian Amazon. It consists of a thick, creamy base made primarily from frozen açaí pulp blended with other fruits like banana, strawberries, or berries. It's served in a bowl and topped with a variety of ingredients that add texture and flavour — such as granola, seeds (like chia or flaxseed), nuts, fresh fruit (banana, kiwi, mango), shredded coconut, or even bits of chocolate.

You should try it not only to taste this tropical fruit, but because it’s considered a superfood thanks to its high content of antioxidants, fibre, healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. It has become a beloved breakfast or snack across Brazil and around the world.

Pão de queijo

Pão de Queijo is a small, fluffy, cheesy bread roll originally from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Its origins date back to the 18th century, when a wheat shortage led families to use cassava starch (known as polvilho) combined with artisanal cheeses to create this delicacy.

Today, it's considered a cultural treasure in Brazil and a classic breakfast and snack dish. You have to try it to understand why it's so popular in Brazil. It combines simple ingredients to achieve a unique texture: crispy on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, with an unmistakable cheesy flavor.

Why you should try these dishes

Each of these dishes isn’t just tasty – eating them is a way to understand the people, culture and history of Peru, Bolivia and Brasil. Travelling through South America without sampling its most iconic foods would mean missing out on an essential part of the journey.

Bon appétit – and happy travels!