The Best Street Food In Cusco Peru

Many people come to Cusco, Peru on their way to Machu Picchu. To really get a taste of authentic Peruvian food be sure to try their street food while you’re here, which can be found on nearly every corner. These tasty homemade treats are a cheap and authentic way to dine out in this Peruvian city.

San Pedro Market

A trip to Cusco isn’t complete without a trip to the San Pedro Market. This market is as authentic as Peru comes. Locals shop at this market everyday in order to stock up on produce and groceries. The market is located indoors, and includes many different food stalls and vendors. Be sure to try their fresh fruit smoothies, the perfect, refreshing treat on a hot day.

Roast Pork Sandwiches

One of the most popular street foods in Cusco are roast pork sandwiches. These are perfect for a filling lunch, or even a snack if you’re feeling peckish. The sandwich is served on toasted bread with roast pork that is carved right in front of you. Other optional condiments include fresh salsa, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.

Choclo con Queso

One of Peru’s traditional street foods is the choclo con queso: boiled corn on the cob with cheese. The corn on the cob is different than American corn, because Peruvian corn has bigger kernels and is less sweet than the American version. Keep your eye out for ladies selling these treats all around the city; San Pedro Market is a safe bet.

Anticucho

Originally created in Peru, Anticuchos, or skewered meat kabobs, are now popular in many South American countries. The snack can be made out of any kind of meat, but for more adventurous diners, it is traditionally made out of beef heart. On the end of the skewer is a boiled potato or bread. Be sure to try the green dipping sauce they usually offer.

Tamales

Tamales are another popular street food in Cusco. These tamales are made from boiled corn, which is mashed into a paste and cooked with the corn leaves. Usually street vendors offer two types of tamales: sweet or salty. Some of the most popular fillings are chicken or pork with olives, and the sweet tamales sometimes contain raisins. Tamales are a tasty and cheap snack.

About the author

Chloe Hanschen

Chloe is currently attending college at Lafayette College in Pennsylvania and majoring in International Affairs and English. When she heard about the opportunity to write at The Culture Trip, she was super excited because she felt that this experience would combine both of her majors and interests. Chloe loves to travel and has been to Australia, Peru, Italy, France, England, and many other countries. Since she love to travel, she's also really excited to study abroad this spring in Spain. When she's not at school, she live in California (near San Francisco) with her family.