Peruvian Lomo Saltado: A Flavorful Stir-Fry of Beef, Vegetables, and Spices

Lomo Saltado is a popular Peruvian dish that beautifully melds Chinese stir-fry techniques with traditional Peruvian ingredients. This vibrant and hearty dish is typically made with marinated strips of sirloin, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes, all tossed together in a tantalizing blend of spices and soy sauce. It's a perfect fusion of textures and flavors, served over or alongside rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 large potatoes, cut into thick fries
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large red onion, sliced into thick wedges
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced into wedges
• 1 yellow aji pepper (or substitute with bell pepper), sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or red wine vinegar)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked white rice (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the potatoes: Begin by frying the potato slices. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the potatoes until golden and crispy, then drain them on paper towels and set aside.
2. Marinate the beef: While the potatoes are frying, season the beef slices with salt and pepper. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic. Add the seasoned beef to this marinade and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Cook the beef: In the same large skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Over high heat, stir-fry the marinated beef quickly until browned but still tender. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion wedges and stir-fry until they start to soften. Add the tomato wedges and aji pepper (or bell pepper) strips. Cook until the vegetables are just tender but still vibrant.
5. Combine and finish: Return the beef to the skillet along with the fried potatoes. Toss everything together gently to combine, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with additional soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed.
6. Serve: Serve the Lomo Saltado hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, over or alongside cooked white rice.

Enjoy this exquisite dish that captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine, a perfect combination of savory, spicy, and umami flavors.