Before you cook
Background Recipe story & origin
Lomo saltado emerged from the fusion of Chinese stir-fry technique with Peruvian ingredients, part of the chifa (Chinese-Peruvian) culinary tradition. Chinese immigrants to Peru in the 19th century adapted their cooking to local ingredients. The dish combines soy sauce (Chinese) with aji amarillo (Peruvian), stir-fried beef with tomatoes and onions, all served over rice with French fries mixed in or on the side. It's now considered one of Peru's most classic dishes.
Before you start Equipment you'll need
- wok or large skillet — Provides high heat surface for stir-frying beef and vegetables until properly seared
Safety Safety & allergen notes
- Wok must be very hot for proper sear.
- Work in batches to avoid steaming meat.
- Add tomatoes last; they break down quickly.
Non-negotiables Rules for success
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Use high heat.
This is stir-fry technique; low heat steams instead of sears
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Sear beef in batches.
Crowded wok = steamed meat; sear in small amounts
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Cut onions and tomatoes in wedges.
Thick cuts hold up to high heat and stay distinct
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Include French fries.
Fries mixed in are essential; this isn't optional
Prep Get set first
About 15 min of prep
- Slice beef against grain into strips
- Cut onion in thick wedges
- Cut tomatoes in wedges
- Fry or prepare potatoes
- Have all ingredients ready by stove
This recipe takes about 45 minutes total.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the fries
Fry or bake French fries until golden and crispy. Keep warm.
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Sear the beef
Heat wok over very high heat (400-450°F surface). Add oil. Sear beef strips in batches until browned but still pink inside, about 1 minute per batch. Remove and set aside.
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Stir-fry vegetables and combine
Add more oil. Stir-fry onion and garlic 1 minute. Add aji amarillo, cumin, soy sauce, vinegar. Add tomatoes and cook 30 seconds. Return beef. Toss with fries. Season with salt and pepper.
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Add the fresh herbs
Plate with white rice on the side. Garnish with cilantro.
Chef's notes
SHOPPING: Sirloin or tenderloin cut into strips. Aji amarillo paste from Latin markets or online. French fries can be frozen or fresh.
The dish reflects Chinese stir-fry technique with Peruvian ingredients.