Lomo Saltado Recipe is a classic Peruvian dish that brings together tender beef, crisp French fries, and vibrant vegetables in a savory stir-fry. It’s a dish that combines the influences of Chinese cuisine with traditional Peruvian flavors, making it a beloved comfort food throughout Peru and beyond. If you’re looking to recreate this flavorful dish at home, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Lomo Saltado, including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutrition facts, and tips for perfecting your dish.

What is Lomo Saltado?

Lomo Saltado Ingredients

To make a traditional Lomo Saltado, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Main Dish:

• 1 (16-ounce) package frozen French fries: These give the dish a crispy texture, balancing the soft vegetables and tender beef.
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for frying the beef and vegetables.
• 1 pound beef tri-tip, sliced 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick: The beef is the centerpiece of the dish, providing a rich, savory flavor.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To season the beef and vegetables.
• 1 large onion, sliced into strips: Adds sweetness and depth to the stir-fry.
• 3 large tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and sliced into strips: The tomatoes soften and bring a fresh juiciness to the dish.
• 1 yellow chili pepper (preferably Peruvian aji amarillo): Adds a gentle heat and a touch of Peruvian authenticity.
• ¼ cup distilled white vinegar: Provides acidity to balance the rich flavors.
• A dash of soy sauce, to taste: To deepen the umami flavors.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For garnish, offering a fresh, herby touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Lomo Saltado

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s get into the step-by-step instructions for making Lomo Saltado.

1. Prepare the French Fries:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Spread the frozen French fries evenly on a cookie sheet (no greasing necessary).
• Bake the fries in the preheated oven for 22–24 minutes or until they are lightly golden and crispy.

2. Cook the Beef:

• While the fries are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Season your sliced beef with salt and pepper.
• Add the beef to the hot oil and cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and its juices are released.
• Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

• In the same pan, without wiping it, add the sliced onions. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the onions become translucent.
• Add the sliced tomatoes and aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper) to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften and start to break down.

4. Add Acidity and Seasonings:

• Pour in ¼ cup white vinegar and a dash of soy sauce, stirring to combine the flavors.

5. Combine the Ingredients:

• Add the cooked French fries and the beef back into the pan with the vegetables.
• Cover and cook for 3 minutes to allow the beef to finish cooking and all the flavors to meld together.

6. Final Seasoning and Serving:

• Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for garnish before serving.

7. Serve:

• Lomo Saltado is traditionally served with a side of steamed rice, but you can also enjoy it on its own or with extra French fries for a heartier meal.

Nutrition Facts for Lomo Saltado

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition facts for one serving of Lomo Saltado (assuming 4 servings in total). Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Lomo Saltado is a relatively high-calorie dish due to the combination of French fries and beef, but it also offers a good amount of protein and fiber from the vegetables. To make it a lighter meal, you can reduce the amount of fries or substitute them with a healthier option like roasted vegetables.

Tips and Praise for Lomo Saltado

Tips for the Best Lomo Saltado:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, onions, and chilies make all the difference in enhancing the flavor.
• Don’t overcook the beef: Overcooked beef can become tough. Stir-fry it until just cooked through for the best texture.
• Feel free to adjust spice levels: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can omit or use less aji amarillo (yellow chili pepper).
• Customizable: You can substitute beef with chicken or pork if you prefer. Some variations also include eggs or potatoes instead of fries.
• Serve immediately: Lomo Saltado is best served fresh and hot, as the fries can get soggy if they sit for too long.

What People Are Saying:

Many reviewers praise Lomo Saltado for its rich and savory flavors, with some noting that it’s “perfect for picky eaters” and a great weeknight meal. People love how quick and easy it is to make, while still being a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s also praised for being an excellent fusion dish that combines the best of Peruvian and Chinese flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make Lomo Saltado ahead of time?

While Lomo Saltado is best served fresh, you can prepare the beef and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. Reheat before adding the fries and assembling the dish.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! If you don’t have beef tri-tip, you can use other cuts of beef, like sirloin or flank steak. You could also substitute with chicken breast or pork tenderloin for a different variation.

Is Lomo Saltado gluten-free?

Yes, Lomo Saltado can be gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce substitute. Traditional soy sauce contains gluten, so you can swap it for tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make Lomo Saltado vegetarian, you can skip the beef and use tofu or seitan as a protein alternative. Just stir-fry the tofu until crispy for the best texture.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a dish that’s full of flavor, texture, and history. It’s easy to make and perfect for anyone craving a hearty, comforting meal. With its tender beef, crispy fries, and vibrant vegetables, Lomo Saltado offers a satisfying balance of savory, tangy, and spicy flavors. Whether you’re a fan of Peruvian cuisine or simply love trying new dishes, Lomo Saltado is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So why not give it a try and bring a taste of Peru to your dinner table tonight?