The lush, vibrant colors of Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef) dance on your plate like a tango at a fiesta. You can almost hear the sizzle of the beef and the crunch of fresh vegetables as they meet in a glorious whirlwind of flavors. Imagine succulent strips of juicy beef, perfectly seasoned, mingling with tender onions and vibrant tomatoes, all served over fluffy rice or crispy fries. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you straight to the heart of Peru.
This dish has a special place in my heart, reminding me of family gatherings where laughter flowed as freely as the pisco sours. My abuela would whip up her famous Lomo Saltado, filling our home with mouthwatering aromas that made it impossible to wait until dinner. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a festive celebration, this dish never fails to impress and always promises an explosion of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lomo Saltado combines rich flavors and textures for an unforgettable culinary experience
- The preparation is straightforward, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones
- Its colorful presentation makes it a showstopper on any table
- Serve it over rice or fries for added versatility and satisfaction
Ingredients for Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef)
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Flank Steak: A tender cut perfect for quick cooking; slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Red Onion: Adds sweetness and crunch; look for firm onions without soft spots.
Tomatoes: Use ripe tomatoes for their juicy flavor; Roma tomatoes work well in stir-fry recipes.
Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle adds freshness; choose vibrant green leaves for the best flavor.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still packing flavor.
Vinegar: Red wine vinegar brings acidity to balance the richness; feel free to experiment with other types.
French Fries or Rice: Choose either option as a hearty base; serve crisp fries or fluffy rice as your foundation.
For the Sauce:
Garlic Clove: Freshly minced garlic elevates the flavor profile; use more if you’re feeling adventurous.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking. Slice the flank steak into thin strips against the grain. Chop the onions and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Mince one garlic clove because we all know that garlic makes everything better!
Step 2: Marinate the Beef
In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic. Add the sliced beef to this marinade and let it sit for about 20 minutes while you sip on some pisco sour (or just some water if you’re feeling responsible).
Step 3: Heat Your Pan
Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until it’s smoking hot—this is key! Add a splash of oil and then toss in your marinated beef. Sear it quickly so it caramelizes nicely without overcooking.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Once your beef is browned (about three minutes), add in those beautiful onions and tomatoes. Stir-fry them together until they soften but still retain their crunch—about two minutes should do!
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add any leftover marinade from the bowl into the pan along with some chopped cilantro for extra flair. Stir everything together until heated through—no one wants cold beef here!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer your Lomo Saltado onto plates over fluffy rice or crispy fries. Don’t forget to garnish with additional cilantro because we’re fancy like that!
Enjoy this delightful dish with family and friends—it’s perfect for sharing stories around the dinner table or simply indulging solo while binge-watching your favorite series!
You Must Know
- This delicious Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef) combines savory beef with vibrant vegetables, all brought together by a tangy sauce
- It’s a versatile dish that brings authentic Peruvian flavors to your table and is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the beef for at least an hour. Heat the pan until it’s sizzling hot, then sear the beef for maximum flavor. Cook your onions and tomatoes next, adding them to the beef for a delightful stir-fry experience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the beef for chicken or tofu if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some fresh herbs like cilantro or even a splash of soy sauce to enhance the flavor and give your Lomo Saltado a personal twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring you don’t lose that delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always slice the beef against the grain for tender pieces
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary
- Using a high smoke point oil helps achieve that perfect sear without burning
It reminds me of the first time I served Lomo Saltado to my friends during a casual get-together. Their eyes lit up as they tasted it, and one friend even proclaimed it “the best thing since sliced bread!”
FAQs
What is Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef)?
Lomo Saltado is a popular Peruvian dish that combines stir-fried beef with vegetables and spices. It features tender strips of beef, typically sirloin, cooked quickly at high heat with onions, tomatoes, and sometimes peppers. The dish is often served with rice and fries, blending Asian and Peruvian culinary traditions. This fusion dish reflects Peru’s diverse food culture, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
How do you make Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef)?
To prepare Lomo Saltado, begin by marinating sliced beef in soy sauce, vinegar, and spices for flavor. Heat oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned. Then, toss in onions and tomatoes until they soften. For the best taste, serve hot with steamed rice and crispy fries on the side. This quick cooking method preserves the meat’s tenderness while enhancing the dish’s vibrant flavors.
Can Lomo Saltado be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version of Lomo Saltado by replacing beef with tofu or seitan. Marinate these substitutes in similar flavors as traditional Lomo Saltado for an authentic taste. Additionally, include plenty of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to maintain texture and nutrition. This adaptation allows those following a plant-based diet to enjoy this classic Peruvian dish without sacrificing flavor.
What sides pair well with Lomo Saltado?
Lomo Saltado pairs beautifully with several sides that complement its rich flavors. Traditional accompaniments include fluffy white rice and crispy French fries, which add texture to the meal. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced plate. Each side enhances the overall dining experience while maintaining the essence of this beloved Peruvian dish.
Conclusion for Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef)
In summary, Lomo Saltado is a delightful fusion of flavors that showcases the best of Peruvian cuisine through its tender stir-fried beef mixed with colorful vegetables. Its simple preparation makes it an accessible dish for home cooks while offering endless variations to suit different diets. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or adapted for vegetarian preferences, Lomo Saltado remains a staple that captures the essence of Peru’s culinary heritage.
Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Stir-Fried Beef)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Lomo Saltado is a vibrant Peruvian stir-fry that harmonizes tender strips of beef with colorful vegetables, creating a dish that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe captures the essence of Peru, blending rich flavors and textures for an unforgettable meal. Perfectly served over fluffy rice or crispy fries, Lomo Saltado transforms any dinner into a celebration of taste, bringing friends and family together.
Ingredients
- 1 lb flank steak, sliced against the grain
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 cups French fries or cooked white rice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Marinate the sliced flank steak in soy sauce, red wine vinegar, and minced garlic for at least 20 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat until hot.
- Add the marinated beef to the skillet and sear for about 3 minutes until browned.
- Toss in onions and tomatoes; stir-fry for another 2 minutes until softened but still crunchy.
- Mix in chopped cilantro and any remaining marinade; heat through.
- Serve over rice or fries and garnish with additional cilantro.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
