Peruvian Christmas Food: 8 Traditional Dishes You Can’t Miss

April 24, 2025 | by: Kuoda Authors

The holiday season in Peru is a time of joy, family gatherings, and, most importantly, delicious food. Peruvian Christmas food is a reflection of the country’s rich culinary heritage, blending Indigenous, Spanish, African, and Asian influences into festive dishes that are deeply rooted in tradition. If you’re visiting Peru during the holiday season, experiencing these Christmas specialties is a must.

1. Panetón – A Sweet Holiday Staple

No Peruvian Christmas celebration is complete without panetón, a sweet bread with Italian origins. This fluffy, fruit-studded treat is enjoyed with hot chocolate, creating a beloved Christmas tradition. Families often share panetón while exchanging gifts or gathering around the nativity scene. Many bakeries across Peru craft their own versions, and some local brands have become holiday staples.

2. Lechón al Horno – Roasted Suckling Pig

A centerpiece of many Peruvian Christmas feasts, lechón al horno (roast suckling pig) is marinated with spices, garlic, and chicha de jora (fermented corn beer), then slow-roasted to perfection. The crispy skin and juicy meat make it a favorite for holiday gatherings, often served with tamales or a side of arroz árabe (spiced rice with nuts and raisins).

3. Pavo Relleno – Stuffed Turkey with Peruvian Flair

Peru’s take on pavo relleno (stuffed turkey) includes a flavorful marinade of local spices, orange juice, and pisco. Unlike traditional American turkey, Peruvian versions often include dried fruits and nuts in the stuffing, adding a sweet-savory contrast that makes it unique. Families serve the turkey with apple sauce, mashed sweet potatoes, or Andean corn.

4. Tamales – A Savory Christmas Morning Tradition

Tamales, made from corn dough and filled with seasoned meats, are a Christmas morning staple in Peru. Wrapped in banana leaves, they are either steamed or boiled, resulting in a deliciously soft and flavorful treat. Some regions prepare tamales with chicken or pork, while others incorporate Andean cheeses and native spices.

5. Ensalada Rusa – A Festive Potato Salad

A common side dish at Christmas feasts, ensalada rusa (Russian salad) is a vibrant combination of potatoes, beets, carrots, peas, and mayonnaise. This colorful salad is a refreshing contrast to the rich meats served during holiday meals, and its bright red and green hues make it a visually festive addition to any table.

6. Chocolate Caliente – A Cozy Christmas Tradition

Peruvian Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a warm cup of chocolate caliente (hot chocolate). Unlike typical hot cocoa, this version is made with rich Peruvian cacao, cinnamon, and cloves, resulting in a deep, aromatic flavor. Many families gather on Christmas Eve for a Chocolatada, a communal event where hot chocolate and panetón are shared with neighbors and those in need.

7. Arroz Árabe – A Flavorful Holiday Side Dish

A staple at Peruvian Christmas tables, arroz árabe (Arab-style rice) is a festive dish made with spiced rice, raisins, almonds, and noodles. This sweet-savory combination complements roasted meats like lechón and pavo, adding a unique texture and depth of flavor to the holiday feast.

8. Tronco de Navidad – Peru’s Christmas Yule Log

Inspired by European holiday traditions, tronco de Navidad (Christmas Yule log) is a decadent chocolate cake roll filled with manjar blanco (dulce de leche) and decorated with festive designs. This dessert has become a favorite treat during the holiday season, enjoyed after the grand Christmas Eve dinner.

Experience Peruvian Christmas Food with Kuoda Travel

For travelers seeking an authentic holiday experience, Kuoda Travel offers curated culinary journeys that showcase the best of Peruvian Christmas food traditions. Some of our festive experiences include:

• Christmas Market Tours: Wander through bustling markets in Lima, Cusco, and Arequipa, where the scent of freshly baked panetón and the sight of colorful holiday ingredients create a lively seasonal atmosphere. Learn about the local spices and unique ingredients that make Peruvian Christmas dishes so special.
• Cooking Classes with Local Chefs: Step into the kitchens of expert Peruvian chefs and learn how to prepare iconic holiday dishes. From marinating and roasting lechón to crafting the perfect cup of thick, spiced hot chocolate, these hands-on experiences allow you to take a piece of Peruvian Christmas home with you.
• Christmas Eve Feast with a Local Family: Enjoy an intimate and authentic Peruvian Christmas celebration by dining with a local family. Experience firsthand how Peruvians gather around a festive table filled with traditional dishes, exchange gifts, and celebrate Christmas with warmth, laughter, and generosity.
• Chocolatada Community Events: Participate in a heartwarming Chocolatada, a cherished Peruvian tradition where communities come together to distribute cups of rich hot chocolate and slices of panetón to children and families in need. This experience allows travelers to engage with local traditions in a meaningful way, fostering a sense of holiday spirit and giving back.

Why Experience a Peruvian Christmas?

Celebrating Christmas in Peru offers a unique blend of flavors, traditions, and heartfelt hospitality. Whether indulging in a holiday feast, strolling through decorated plazas, or joining a traditional Chocolatada, the experience is sure to create lasting memories.

Plan Your Festive Getaway with Kuoda Travel

Celebrate the holiday season with an immersive journey into Peru’s Christmas culinary traditions. Let Kuoda Travel craft a personalized itinerary that introduces you to the warmth, flavors, and festive spirit of Peru Christmas food. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable holiday experience.