Lomo Saltado (Stir Fried Beef)

Lomo Saltado is a popular dish in Peru. This chifa meal, almost as popular as ceviche, is a mix of Chinese stir frying with traditional Peruvian ingredients. Stir-fry juicy strips of soy-marinated beef (or alpaca), onions, tomatoes, aji chiles, and other spices until the beef is just done and the tomatoes and onions begin to make a powerful, meaty gravy. It's simply a Peruvian version of the classic beef stir-fry. The preparation of the meat is the key to its excellent taste. Sirloin strips are marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and spices for several hours before cooking. Peruvians prefer to add red onions, tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetable combinations once the beef is in the pan.

If it isn't enough flavor for you, Peruvians, go a step farther. It's a dish that's typically served with french fries or rice. This provides a lovely combination of lean, spicy vegetables and meat, as well as the warmth and heartiness of the fries and rice.