Sample the Local Cuisine
Colombian cuisine is diverse and influenced by various cultures so make time to sample the local cuisine. It offers a range of flavours and dishes that will delight your taste buds. Some must-try foods include Colombia is a country known for its diverse and unique culinary offerings. If you’re an adventurous foodie, you’ll love exploring the unusual types of food that Colombia has to offer. Here are 10 you might like to try
Changua:
Changua is a traditional Andean breakfast soup made with milk, water, eggs, and scallions. It might sound unusual to have soup for breakfast, but it’s a comforting and flavorful dish.
Mondongo:
Mondongo is a hearty soup made from cow or pig stomach lining, typically cooked with vegetables like potato, carrot, and peas. It’s a dish popular among Colombians and is considered a comfort food.
Hormigas Culonas:
Translated as “Big Butt Ants,” this delicacy is unique to Colombia. These large ants are toasted, salted, and enjoyed as a crunchy snack. They are said to have a nutty flavour.
Lechona:
Lechona is a traditional dish typically prepared for special occasions. It consists of a whole pig stuffed with rice, peas, onions, and spices, then roasted until the skin becomes crispy. The result is a flavourful and tender meat dish.
Cuy:
Cuy, or guinea pig, is a popular protein source in some regions of Colombia. It is typically grilled or roasted and served with potatoes and aji sauce. While it might be considered unusual in some cultures, it is a traditional dish in parts of Colombia.
Sample the local cuisine – Ajiaco:
- Ajiaco is an iconic Colombian stew, particularly popular in Bogotá. It is made with chicken, three types of potatoes (creole, sabanera, and pastusa), corn on the cob, capers, and a variety of herbs. The resulting soup is rich and hearty.
Guava and Cheese:
This sweet and savoury combination is a popular dessert in Colombia. Guava paste and a type of white cheese called “queso blanco” are often served together, creating a delicious contrast of flavours.
Hot Chocolate and Cheese:
In Colombia, it’s common to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate accompanied by a piece of cheese. The combination of the rich, sweet cocoa and the salty, creamy cheese creates a unique and indulgent experience.
Sample the local cuisine – Bandeja Paisa:
Bandeja Paisa is a hearty and filling dish that is considered a national treasure in Colombia. It typically includes rice, beans, ground meat, chicharrón (crispy pork belly), plantains, avocado, fried egg, and an arepa. It’s a feast for the senses.
Arepas:
Arepas are a staple food in Colombia. These round cornmeal cakes can be filled with various ingredients, like cheese, shredded meat, eggs, or beans. They are versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Also Colombia is known for its delicious street food options such as empanadas (fried stuffed pastries), patacones (fried green plantains), and buñuelos (sweet fried dough balls). These are perfect snacks to grab on the go while exploring the country.
And speaking of exploration, Colombia is also home to a variety of exotic fruits that you won’t find anywhere else. Some must-try fruits include lulo, guanabana, and borojo.
