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Huacatay-Kissed Lomo Saltado

Lomo Saltado is a popular Peruvian stir-fry that combines marinated beef, onions, tomatoes, and French fries. This version incorporates Huacatay paste for a unique, aromatic twist, creating a savory and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Breakfast, Soup
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or tenderloin cut into 1-inch strips
  • 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large red onion cut into thick wedges
  • 2-3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 ají amarillo paste or 1 fresh ají amarillo, deseeded and minced, or 1/2 red bell pepper for less heat
  • 1-2 tsp Huacatay paste or more, to taste
  • 2-3 firm ripe tomatoes cut into thick wedges
  • 1/4 cup Peruvian dark soy sauce or regular soy sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar
  • 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Serving
  • 1 lb frozen French fries cooked according to package directions
  • Cooked white rice for serving

Equipment

  • Wok or heavy-bottomed skillet

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Season the beef strips generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over high heat until smoking, then sear half of the beef until browned, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove to a plate and repeat with the remaining beef.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-high, add remaining oil and sauté red onion wedges for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. Add minced garlic, ají amarillo paste, and Huacatay paste, then sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  5. Add tomato wedges and cook for 1 minute until they begin to soften.
  6. Return seared beef to the wok, then immediately add Peruvian dark soy sauce, red wine vinegar, and beef broth, stirring quickly to combine.
  7. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld, ensuring the beef remains tender.
  8. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  9. Serve immediately over white rice and alongside crispy French fries.

Notes

For an authentic touch, ensure your wok is very hot to achieve a good sear on the beef without overcooking it. The Huacatay paste is key to this dish's unique flavor, so don't skip it!