Best Local Snacks in Machu Picchu
Street food is an integral part of Peruvian culture, offering a taste of local flavors and culinary traditions.
When visiting Machu Picchu, sampling street food in Aguas Calientes is a must.
Here’s a guide to the best street food and where to find it.
Top Street Foods
- Anticuchos
- Empanadas
- Tamales
- Churros
- Choclo con Queso
- Salchipapas
- Picarones
- Causa Rellena
Anticuchos Anticuchos are grilled meat skewers, traditionally made with beef heart marinated in aji panca and vinegar. These savory snacks are a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Must-Try Street Foods
- Anticuchos
- Empanadas
- Tamales
- Churros
- Choclo con Queso
- Salchipapas
- Picarones
- Causa Rellena
| Street Food | Description | Key Ingredients | Where to Try |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anticuchos | Grilled meat skewers | Beef heart, aji panca, vinegar | Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes |
| Empanadas | Stuffed pastries | Flour, meat, cheese, vegetables | Market Stalls, Aguas Calientes |
| Tamales | Corn dough filled with meat or cheese | Corn, meat, cheese, spices | Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes |
| Churros | Deep-fried dough pastries | Flour, sugar, cinnamon | Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes |
| Choclo con Queso | Corn on the cob with cheese | Corn, cheese | Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes |
| Salchipapas | Sausages and fries | Sausages, potatoes, sauces | Market Stalls, Aguas Calientes |
| Picarones | Sweet potato doughnuts | Sweet potato, flour, syrup | Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes |
| Causa Rellena | Layered potato dish | Potatoes, chicken, avocado, lime | Market Stalls, Aguas Calientes |
“Street food, I believe, is the salvation of the human race.” – Anthony Bourdain
Empanadas
Description: Stuffed pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. Key Ingredients: Flour, meat, cheese, vegetables.Where to Try: Market Stalls, Aguas Calientes.
Empanadas are a popular street food in Peru, offering a delicious and portable snack. They come with various fillings, making them a versatile choice for any palate.
Tamales
Description: Corn dough filled with meat or cheese, wrapped in corn husks, and steamed. Key Ingredients: Corn, meat, cheese, spices. Where to Try: Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes.
Tamales are a traditional Peruvian street food that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The flavorful fillings and tender corn dough make them a favorite among locals and visitors.
Churros
Description: Deep-fried dough pastries rolled in sugar and cinnamon, often filled with chocolate or caramel. Key Ingredients: Flour, sugar, cinnamon. Where to Try: Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes.
Churros are a sweet treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These crispy pastries are best enjoyed fresh and warm from the vendor.
Choclo con Queso
Description: Large corn on the cob served with a slice of cheese. Key Ingredients: Corn, cheese. Where to Try:Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes.
Choclo con Queso is a simple yet delicious street food that highlights the unique varieties of Peruvian corn. The combination of sweet corn and salty cheese is irresistible.
Salchipapas
Description: A dish of fried sausages and potatoes, often topped with sauces. Key Ingredients: Sausages, potatoes, sauces. Where to Try: Market Stalls, Aguas Calientes.
Salchipapas is a popular street food that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s a great option for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
Picarones
Description: Sweet potato and squash doughnuts, deep-fried and drizzled with syrup. Key Ingredients: Sweet potato, flour, syrup. Where to Try: Street Vendors, Aguas Calientes.
Picarones are a traditional Peruvian dessert that’s sweet and slightly chewy. The syrup adds an extra layer of sweetness, making them a delightful treat.
Causa Rellena
Description: Layered potato dish filled with chicken, avocado, and lime. Key Ingredients: Potatoes, chicken, avocado, lime. Where to Try: Market Stalls, Aguas Calientes.
Causa Rellena is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light meal. The layers of potato and creamy filling create a harmonious blend of flavors.
Tips for Enjoying Street Food
- Follow the Crowds: Vendors with long lines are usually a good sign of fresh and tasty food.
- Ask for Recommendations: Locals can often point you to the best street food vendors.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry a bottle of water, especially when trying spicy foods.
Street Food in Machu Picchu
Ready to taste the best street food in Machu Picchu? Plan your culinary adventure today and discover the local flavors. Visit our website for more information on street food vendors, reviews, and tips.
Street food in Machu Picchu offers an authentic and flavorful experience that’s not to be missed. From savory anticuchos to sweet picarones, there’s something for everyone. Book your trip today and indulge in the vibrant street food scene of Machu Picchu.