There’s something magical about the aroma of sizzling beef, fresh vegetables, and vibrant spices wafting through the kitchen. Lomo saltado is a culinary hug that brings together the best of Peruvian cuisine in one delicious stir-fry. Imagine juicy strips of steak mingling with tender onions and tomatoes, all basking in a savory soy sauce bath that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration! Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or enjoying a cozy family dinner, lomo saltado transforms any occasion into a feast. The blend of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable experience that keeps everyone coming back for seconds—and thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Lomo saltado is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- Its savory flavor profile blends perfectly with rice or fries, satisfying every palate
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to your favorite ingredients or dietary preferences
The first time I whipped up lomo saltado, my friends were blown away by its flavor. They insisted I should open a restaurant—too bad I can’t cook in public without burning something!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Beef Sirloin: Choose tender cuts for a juicy texture; about 1-1.5 pounds will do nicely.
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Red Onion: Slice it thick so it retains some crunch while cooking; this adds great texture.
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Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomatoes will enhance the dish; look for ones that are firm but slightly fragrant.
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Fresh Cilantro: Use chopped cilantro as a fresh garnish at the end for added brightness and flavor.
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Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is best to control saltiness while still providing that umami punch.
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Vinegar (Red Wine or White): A splash adds acidity and balances the rich flavors of the beef.
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French Fries: Optional but recommended for authentic lomo saltado; they bring extra comfort and heartiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by slicing your beef into thin strips against the grain. Chop your onion and tomatoes into wedges—make sure they’re ready to go before you heat things up.
Heat Up That Skillet!: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add some oil until shimmering, then toss in the beef strips, searing them until browned on all sides—about 3-4 minutes.
Add Onions and Tomatoes: Once the beef is browned, add the sliced onions and tomatoes to the pan. Stir-fry them until the onions are translucent and fragrant—around 2-3 minutes should do.
Season It Up!: Pour in your soy sauce and vinegar while mixing everything together. Let it simmer for another minute or two; this step makes all those flavors meld beautifully.
Finish with Cilantro: Right before serving, sprinkle chopped cilantro over your lomo saltado. Give it one last stir to mix everything together—this addition brightens up the dish!
Serve Hot!: Serve lomo saltado immediately over steamed rice or with crispy French fries on the side. Enjoy every mouthful of this heavenly creation!
Now that you have mastered this delightful Peruvian dish, don’t be surprised if everyone around you suddenly becomes a fan of your cooking skills!
You Must Know
- Lomo saltado is more than a dish; it’s a cultural fusion that tantalizes your taste buds
- The delightful combination of tender beef, vibrant veggies, and fragrant spices creates an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen and brings everyone together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the perfect lomo saltado, sear the beef first to lock in flavors, then sauté your veggies while keeping an eye on the rice. This order ensures everything cooks evenly and comes together beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preference: try chicken or tofu instead of beef and add extra spices for a unique twist. Personalizing your lomo saltado can make it truly yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve flavor and texture, making sure not to overcook.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best lomo saltado experience, use high-quality beef for tenderness
- Always slice against the grain for better texture
- Don’t forget to serve with a side of crispy fries for that authentic touch!
Sharing my first attempt at lomo saltado was hilarious; my friends loved it so much they asked for seconds—and thirds! Their laughter filled the room as we debated over who could handle the spicy salsa best.
FAQ
What cuts of beef are best for lomo saltado?
Tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye work best for a juicy result.
Can I make lomo saltado vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh for a delicious vegetarian option.
What should I serve with lomo saltado?
Serve it with fluffy white rice and crispy French fries for a complete meal.
Lomo Saltado
Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with Lomo Saltado, a delightful stir-fry that combines juicy beef sirloin, fresh vegetables, and fragrant spices. This dish is a perfect blend of savory soy sauce and tangy vinegar, served over fluffy rice or crispy fries. It’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- Optional: 1 cup French fries
Instructions
- Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips and chop onions and tomatoes into wedges.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add oil until shimmering; sear beef for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Add onions and tomatoes to the skillet; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Pour in soy sauce and vinegar; simmer for an additional minute to blend flavors.
- Add chopped cilantro just before serving; mix well and serve hot over rice or with fries.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
