There’s nothing quite like the enticing aroma of Lomo Saltado wafting through the kitchen, transporting you straight to the vibrant streets of Peru. This beloved dish fuses mouthwatering, tender beef with crisp onions and juicy tomatoes, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Beyond its rich taste, what I love most about Lomo Saltado is its versatility—whether you choose skirt steak, sirloin, or even a lighter protein option, this recipe caters to your cravings.
After a long day, a quick meal that feels like a comforting hug is exactly what I need, and this stir fry delivers just that. It comes together in a flash, perfect for those hectic weeknights when you’re craving something beyond fast food. Best of all, you can enjoy it over a bed of fluffy white rice or piled alongside golden, crispy French fries—both delicious options that promise to please a crowd.
Get ready to bring a fresh twist to your dinner table with this vibrant Lomo Saltado recipe, and watch as everyone eagerly anticipates a second helping!
Why is Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry) a Must-Try?
Unique Flavors: The blend of tender beef, vibrant tomatoes, and crisp onions creates a dish bursting with flavor that you’ll crave time and time again.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for anyone who loves home-cooked meals.
Versatile Ingredients: Whether you’re using sirloin or shrimp, this dish adapts beautifully to any protein or vegetable you have on hand.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this dish to friends and family, and watch as they rave about the mouthwatering taste—it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering!
Comforting & Satisfying: Whether you’re enjoying it over rice or alongside crispy fries, Lomo Saltado provides that cozy, comforting feeling that makes every meal special.
Lomo Saltado Ingredients
For the Beef
• Beef – Traditional cuts include skirt steak, sirloin, or even filet mignon for a gourmet twist.
For the Vegetables
• Onions – Use yellow or red onions for the perfect sweetness that complements the beef’s richness.
• Tomatoes – Ripe tomatoes add a burst of juiciness; alternatively, bell peppers can be used for a delightful flavor.
For the Sauce
• Soy Sauce – This provides a deep umami flavor; opt for tamari if you need a gluten-free alternative.
• Oyster Sauce – Adds depth; hoisin sauce can substitute for a vegetarian option.
• Aji Amarillo Paste – Offers traditional Peruvian heat; for milder flavors, try a mix of serrano and yellow bell peppers.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is best for enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
For Serving
• French Fries – Serve them on the side for a crunchy texture or toss them right into the stir fry for a classic touch.
• White Rice – Fluffy rice provides the perfect base to soak up the delicious sauces.
With these Lomo Saltado ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from experiencing a delicious and satisfying meal that beautifully combines flavor and comfort!
How to Make Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry)
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Prep the Ingredients: Begin by thinly slicing the beef against the grain; this ensures maximum tenderness. Next, slice your onions and tomatoes, keeping them ready for a flavorful stir fry.
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Cook the Beef: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, sear until browned, and cook to your desired doneness—this usually takes about 2-4 minutes.
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Add Aromatics: Toss in the minced garlic and sliced onions into the skillet, sautéing until the onions become translucent, which should take about 3 minutes.
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Incorporate Vegetables: Gently stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they’re softened, creating a delicious medley of flavors and textures.
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Flavor the Dish: Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well to coat all the ingredients in that rich, savory goodness. Let everything simmer for an additional minute.
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Serve: Dish out your Lomo Saltado hot over fluffy rice or alongside crispy French fries. Enjoy the colorful, delicious presentation!
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry)?
Elevate your Lomo Saltado experience with delightful sides that enhance its vibrant flavors.
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Fluffy White Rice: Serves as the perfect canvas for this dish, soaking up the delicious sauces and adding a comforting texture.
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Crispy French Fries: These add a satisfying crunch; they can be served on the side or mixed in for an extra flavorful bite.
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Fresh Avocado Slices: The creaminess of avocado provides a cool contrast, balancing the savory flavors of the beef and spices.
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Zesty Salad: A refreshing mixed salad with vinaigrette can lighten the meal, providing a burst of acidity that complements the richness of Lomo Saltado.
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Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a smoky flavor and colorful presentation, enhancing the dish’s appeal.
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Peruvian Chicha Morada: This traditional beverage, made from purple corn, offers a sweet, fruity flavor that beautifully pairs with the savory dish, making every bite and sip memorable.
Lomo Saltado Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on this Lomo Saltado and explore the exciting possibilities!
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Chicken Swap: Replace the beef with thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter take. It’s just as delicious and retains those vibrant flavors.
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Shrimp Delight: Use shrimp instead of beef for a seafood twist. Quick-cooking shrimp adds a delightful and juicy element to this classic dish.
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Veggie-Loaded: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas for a colorful vegetable medley. This twist not only boosts the nutrition but also adds lovely textures.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, add a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper while sautéing the onions. This quick addition transforms your dish into a zesty sensation!
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Moo-Free Option: Use tofu or tempeh instead of beef for a vegan-friendly version. Ensure to marinate your tofu to infuse it with robust flavors.
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Salsa Verde Boost: Drizzle some fresh salsa verde over your Lomo Saltado before serving. The zesty addition brightens up every bite!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley sprinkled on top. This simple touch adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
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Crispy Potato Variations: Try sweet potato fries instead of regular fries for a naturally sweet pairing that compliments the savory components beautifully.
Expert Tips for Lomo Saltado
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Cut Against the Grain: Ensure you slice the beef against the grain to keep it tender. This small adjustment can make a world of difference in the meat’s texture.
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High Heat Is Key: Always preheat your skillet before adding the beef. This helps to achieve a beautiful sear, enhancing flavor and preventing it from becoming steaky.
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Season with Care: Be cautious with salt when adding soy sauce, especially if using pre-seasoned soy or oyster sauce. Taste as you cook to adjust flavors without overpowering the dish.
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Watch the Cooking Time: The cooking time for the beef is crucial—too long, and it may turn tough. Aim for 2-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of your slices.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always opt for fresh garlic and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor in your Lomo Saltado. This enhances the overall taste and richness of the dish.
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Customize to Your Liking: Feel free to adapt this Lomo Saltado recipe with your choice of vegetables or proteins. Mixing in some bell peppers or zucchini can offer a delightful twist while keeping it healthy!
Storage Tips for Lomo Saltado
Fridge: Store leftover Lomo Saltado in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Lomo Saltado in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool before sealing to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warm. Add a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture, ensuring it stays delicious and tender.
Serving Tips: For the best experience, serve reheated Lomo Saltado with freshly cooked rice or crispy fries, just like you enjoyed it the first time!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry) in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can slice your beef, onions, and tomatoes up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, be sure to drizzle a little lemon juice over the tomatoes to prevent browning. When you’re ready to cook, heat your skillet and add the marinated beef first, allowing it to sear perfectly. After cooking the beef, simply add the prepped vegetables and follow the rest of the recipe steps. This make-ahead strategy ensures you enjoy a delicious meal with minimal fuss after a long day!
Lomo Saltado (Peruvian Beef Stir Fry) Recipe FAQs
What type of beef is best for Lomo Saltado?
Absolutely! The best choices are cuts like skirt steak, sirloin, or filet mignon. Each cut offers its own flavor and tenderness, but be sure to slice against the grain to enhance the meat’s tenderness in your Lomo Saltado.
How should I store leftover Lomo Saltado?
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain the best flavor and texture. Reheat it gently before enjoying your savory second helping!
Can I freeze Lomo Saltado?
Yes! To freeze Lomo Saltado, place it in a freezer-safe container once cooled, and it can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. For best results, reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
What if my beef turns out tough?
If you find your beef is tough, you might have overcooked it. Cooking time should only be around 2 to 4 minutes at high heat. If it’s still tough, check that you sliced it against the grain. If you’re adventurous, try marinating the beef beforehand for additional tenderness and flavor.
Is Lomo Saltado suitable for special diets?
Yes, you can adapt Lomo Saltado for various dietary preferences! Swap in gluten-free soy sauce and omit oyster sauce or use hoisin sauce for a vegetarian alternative. You can also replace beef with chicken or shrimp for a lighter, delicious version that maintains the dish’s essence.
How can I tell if my tomatoes are ripe enough for cooking?
Look for tomatoes that are vibrant in color with a slight softness when gently squeezed—those are the ones that add the juiciest flavor to your Lomo Saltado! If they have dark spots all over, they might be past their prime.
Irresistible Lomo Saltado: Quick Peruvian Beef Stir Fry Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by thinly slicing the beef against the grain.
- Slice your onions and tomatoes, keeping them ready.
- Heat oil in a skillet over high heat.
- Add the beef in a single layer, sear until browned, about 2-4 minutes.
- Toss in minced garlic and sliced onions, sauté until onions are translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
- Pour in soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing well; simmer for an additional minute.
- Dish out hot over rice or alongside French fries.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro.