There’s something undeniably comforting about the fusion of flavors in Lomo Saltado, a classic dish that has become a staple in my kitchen. It all started on a cozy evening when I craved a taste of Peru without stepping away from home. The sizzle of marinated beef mingling with fresh tomatoes and onions quickly filled my space with an irresistible aroma, transporting me to bustling Lima markets.
This vibrant Peruvian Beef Stir Fry is not only a feast for the palate but also a marvel of cooking efficiency. With just a handful of ingredients—many of which you may already have on hand—you can create a dazzling meal that impresses both friends and family alike. The secret? It all comes together in a matter of minutes! Whether you mix crispy French fries right into the stir-fry or serve them on the side, each bite offers a delightful crunch paired with savory goodness. Trust me, once you experience this culinary wonder, takeout will be a thing of the past!
Why is Lomo Saltado a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: The bold blend of beef, tomatoes, and spices creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds.
Quick and easy: From chopping to table in under 30 minutes, this dish fits into even the busiest of weeknights.
Versatile options: Swap the beef for chicken or a plant-based protein and customize it with your favorite veggies.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it’s a dish that will impress family and friends while satisfying everyone’s cravings.
A touch of Peru: This recipe brings a taste of cultural heritage into your home, elevating ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences.
Lomo Saltado Ingredients
For the Beef
• Beef – Tender cuts like flank or skirt steak work best, sliced thin for even cooking.
• Soy Sauce – Adds a savory umami flavor; tamari is a great gluten-free alternative.
• Oyster Sauce – Deepens the dish’s flavor; hoisin sauce can be used for a vegetarian twist.
For the Vegetables
• Onions – Yellow or red, sliced thin for a sweet and savory base.
• Tomatoes – Use fresh Roma tomatoes, cut into wedges for juiciness.
• Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
For the Accompaniments
• French Fries – Crispy fries can be mixed in or served on the side for that classic combination.
• Rice – Good as a base for serving; opt for white or cauliflower rice based on preferences.
For the Heat
• Aji Amarillo Paste – Provides a distinct Peruvian kick; blend serrano and yellow bell peppers as a substitute.
This Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry) is not just a quick dinner but a colorful trip through flavors that will genuinely elevate your home cooking!
How to Make Lomo Saltado
-
Prepare Ingredients: Slice your chosen beef thinly against the grain, season with soy sauce, and gather your sliced onions, tomatoes, and minced garlic for easy access at the stove.
-
Cook Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove it from the pan to keep it tender.
-
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, toss in the onions and cook until softened, around 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, followed by the tomatoes, cooking just until they’re slightly softened.
-
Combine and Sauce: Return the beef to the skillet, along with the oyster sauce and any remaining soy sauce. Stir to combine everything and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
-
Serve: Plate up the Lomo Saltado over a generous scoop of rice, topping with crispy French fries. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
Optional: Drizzle with lime juice before serving for an extra zest!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Lomo Saltado
-
Hot Skillet: Achieve a perfect sear by preheating your skillet until it’s very hot before adding the beef; this prevents steaming.
-
Thin Slices: Cut the beef thinly and against the grain for tender pieces; thicker cuts can result in a chewy texture in your Lomo Saltado.
-
Aji Amarillo Control: Adjust the amount of Aji Amarillo paste to suit your spice tolerance; start with less for a milder dish, adding more as desired.
-
Batch Cooking: If preparing for a crowd, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking and steaming.
-
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh tomatoes and garlic for the richest flavors; these ingredients make your Lomo Saltado shine with authenticity.
Lomo Saltado Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this dish to your taste buds for a delightful experience!
-
Chicken Swap: Use thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter version that still packs a flavorful punch.
-
Vegetarian Delight: Substitute the beef with tofu or tempeh marinated in soy sauce to capture that umami essence without the meat.
-
Colorful Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for a pop of color and extra nutrition, enhancing the stir fry’s vibrant looks.
-
Spicy Kick: Mix in jalapeños or extra Aji Amarillo paste for those who crave a fiery heat, elevating the dish to a new level.
-
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end for added freshness and aromatic delight with each bite.
-
Caramelized Onions: On top of sautéing onions, give them a little more time in the pan to achieve a sweet, caramelized flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
-
Crispy Toppings: Sprinkle crispy fried onions or even crushed tortilla chips on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the tender beef and veggies.
-
Uh-Oh Fries: Instead of traditional French fries, try sweet potato fries mixed into the stir-fry for a delicious twist on flavor and texture that everyone will love.
How to Store and Freeze Lomo Saltado
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the dish’s texture.
Freezer: Lomo Saltado can be frozen for up to 2 months. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, ensuring no air pockets remain. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best flavor, reheat in a pan to get that sizzle back rather than using a microwave, which can make it soggy.
Enjoy your homemade Lomo Saltado while preserving its delicious freshness!
Make Ahead Options
These Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry) ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the beef, onions, and tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This not only saves time during busy weeknights but also allows the beef to absorb the flavor of the soy sauce while marinating. To keep your veggies fresh and vibrant, be sure to refrigerate them separately. When it’s time to cook, simply heat your skillet, sauté the vegetables, and then add the beef with the sauces for a quick finish. With this prep, you’ll have a delicious, comforting Lomo Saltado ready in minutes!
What to Serve with Lomo Saltado?
Elevate your homemade dining experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement this vibrant Peruvian stir fry.
-
Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant rice dish with citrus notes that balances the savory flavors of the Lomo Saltado beautifully.
-
Crispy French Fries: Classic and comforting, fries can be tossed into the stir fry for extra crunch or served on the side for a fun twist.
-
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado paired with fresh greens adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef and vegetables.
-
Sweet Plantains: Their natural sweetness contrasts perfectly with the savory stir fry, offering a delightful taste of Peru.
-
Spicy Aji Verde Sauce: This zesty green sauce kicks up the flavor, adding a kick that enhances every bite of Lomo Saltado.
-
Peruvian Corn Salad: Fresh corn mixed with lime and herbs provides a sweet, crunchy element that complements the stir fry’s richness.
-
Chilean Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp, refreshing wine that cuts through the richness, making it a perfect pairing for your flavorful Lomo Saltado.
Adding these sides will create a memorable meal that captures the essence of Peruvian cuisine. Enjoy!
Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry) Recipe FAQs
What kind of beef should I use for Lomo Saltado?
Absolutely! For Lomo Saltado, it’s best to use tender cuts of beef such as flank steak or skirt steak. Both cuts are flavorful and will remain juicy if sliced thinly against the grain before cooking. This ensures not only even cooking but also tenderness in every bite!
How should I store leftovers of Lomo Saltado?
To keep your Lomo Saltado fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat to revive its original texture and flavor—this will help avoid any sogginess from microwaving.
Can I freeze Lomo Saltado?
Yes! You can freeze Lomo Saltado for up to 2 months. To do this, portion out servings into freezer-safe containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, which will help maintain the dish’s wonderful texture.
What if my beef becomes tough when cooking?
If your beef ends up being tough, it could be due to slicing against the grain, cooking too long, or using a cut that’s not tender. To fix this for next time, ensure to slice the beef thinly against the grain and avoid cooking it longer than 4 minutes in total. If you notice it starting to toughen, it’s best to remove it from the pan and finish cooking it later with the vegetables.
Is Lomo Saltado safe for pets?
While Lomo Saltado is a flavorful dish for humans, it’s not advisable for pets, especially dogs and cats. Ingredients like soy sauce and garlic can be harmful to them. Always stick with pet-friendly meals when sharing leftovers!
Can I make Lomo Saltado vegetarian or vegan?
Very! You can easily make a vegetarian or vegan version by substituting the beef with plant-based proteins, such as tempeh or tofu. Simply marinate and cook it the same way as you would the beef. Additionally, replace oyster sauce with hoisin sauce to keep it plant-based, maintaining that rich savory flavor!
Savory Lomo Saltado: A Zesty Twist on Peruvian Beef Stir Fry
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice your chosen beef thinly against the grain, season with soy sauce, and gather your sliced onions, tomatoes, and minced garlic for easy access at the stove.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer and sear until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Remove it from the pan to keep it tender.
- In the same skillet, toss in the onions and cook until softened, around 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic, followed by the tomatoes, cooking just until they’re slightly softened.
- Return the beef to the skillet, along with the oyster sauce and any remaining soy sauce. Stir to combine everything and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Plate up the Lomo Saltado over a generous scoop of rice, topping with crispy French fries. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.