Eating Out in Colombia: Recommendations for Every Meal

Colombia is a country known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. From hearty breakfasts to mouthwatering lunches and dinners, the Colombian food scene is a treat for food lovers. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring the diverse culinary offerings in Colombia is a must. Here are some recommendations for every meal, highlighting the unique flavors and dishes that make Colombian cuisine so special.

Breakfast

Colombian breakfasts are a filling and energizing way to start your day. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Arepas: These cornmeal patties are a staple in Colombian cuisine. They can be enjoyed plain or filled with cheese, eggs, or meat.
• Changua: This traditional Colombian soup is made with milk, scallions, and eggs. It’s a comforting and hearty breakfast option.
• Bandeja Paisa: This iconic dish from the Antioquia region is a hearty platter featuring beans, rice, fried egg, chorizo, pork belly, and avocado. It’s a breakfast feast!

Lunch

Colombians take their lunch seriously, often enjoying a large and balanced meal in the afternoon. Here are some lunch options to try:

• Ajiaco: A traditional Colombian soup made with chicken, potatoes, corn, and herbs. It’s a delicious and comforting choice for lunch.
• Bandeja Paisa: This hearty dish also makes for a satisfying lunch. It’s a complete meal on a plate with various proteins, rice, beans, plantains, and avocado.
• Cazuela de Mariscos: This seafood stew is a popular choice for lunch, especially in coastal regions. It’s packed with shrimp, fish, clams, and other seafood delicacies.

Dinner

Colombian dinners are often lighter compared to lunch but still packed with flavor. Here are some dinner recommendations:

• Sancocho: This traditional Colombian soup is a staple for dinner. It’s made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and herbs, resulting in a rich and comforting dish.
• Arroz con Pollo: A classic Colombian dish, arroz con pollo is a flavorful combination of rice, chicken, vegetables, and spices. It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make dinner option.
• Lechona: This festive dish is popular for special occasions. It consists of a whole roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices. It’s a flavorful and indulgent dinner choice.

Snacks and Street Food

Colombia is famous for its street food scene, offering a wide array of delicious snacks. Here are some must-try options:

• Empanadas: These savory pastries are filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, or potatoes. They are a popular on-the-go snack.
• Arepas Rellenas: Similar to empanadas, arepas rellenas are cornmeal pockets filled with cheese, meat, or eggs. They make for a satisfying and quick snack.
• Patacones: These fried plantain slices are a popular street food snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or topped with meat, cheese, or guacamole.

Desserts

No meal is complete without something sweet to end it on a high note. Colombian desserts are rich and indulgent. Here are some favorites:

• Arequipe: Also known as dulce de leche, arequipe is a creamy caramel sauce that is used in various desserts. It’s often enjoyed spread on bread or as a topping for cakes and pastries.
• Tres Leches Cake: This moist and decadent cake is soaked in three types of milk and topped with whipped cream. It’s a beloved dessert in Colombia.
• Buñuelos: These fried dough balls are made with cheese and are a popular treat during the holiday season. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

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References:

• lonelyplanet.com
• colombia.travel
• theculturetrip.com
• mycolombianrecipes.com