Chile is bordered by Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina in South America. With a population of over 19 million, Chile has a rich history and culture spanning thousands of years. The country is popular for its stunning natural beauty, including the Atacama Desert, the Andes Mountains, and the beautiful coastline along the Pacific Ocean. Chile is also home to a thriving wine industry and has become a popular destination for wine lovers worldwide.
If you love to explore new cuisines and flavours, Chile is a must-visit destination. The country’s traditional cuisine amalgamates indigenous, Spanish, and other cultural influences. From hearty stews to savoury pies, Chilean food has something to offer for everyone. We have curated a list of the 22 most popular food in Chile that you need to try when in Chile. So come along with us on this culinary journey and get ready to tantalize your taste buds with some of Chile’s best dishes.
The Best Of 22 Popular Food In Chile
When exploring Chilean cuisine, ignoring the variety of popular dishes with savoury and sweet flavours is impossible. From empanadas, asado, and ceviche to pastel de choclo and photos Granados, Chilean food offers diverse culinary delights that cater to every taste bud.
The unique blend of indigenous Mapuche, Spanish, and Mediterranean cultures creates a fascinating fusion of flavours that distinguishes Chilean cuisine from its Latin American neighbours. Whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian, there’s something for everyone to savour in this gastronomic paradise.
1. Cazuela
Chilean cuisine blends indigenous ingredients and European influences, creating a unique and flavorful gastronomy. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the country’s culinary heritage is cazuela. This traditional Chilean soup comes with beef or chicken, vegetables, and potatoes, providing a hearty and comforting meal for any occasion. Cazuela is often seasoned with spices such as paprika, cumin, and oregano to add flavour, and other common ingredients include corn, pumpkin, and beans. No matter where you go in Chile, you’ll likely find this delicious soup in a clay bowl called a cazuela.
2. Pastel de Choclo
Pastel de Choclo is a beloved traditional dish in Chile that everyone should try. This hearty meal comes with ground beef, onions, raisins, and olives and top with a puree of corn. The sweet and savoury flavours of this dish make it unique and delicious. It is often served hot in an earthenware dish as a popular comfort food during winter. Pastel de Choclo can enjoy as a main or side dish with other Chilean favourites like empanadas or cazuela. Its popularity among locals and visitors makes it a must-try for anyone exploring Chilean cuisine.
3. Porotos Granados
The traditional Chilean stew, Porotos Granados, is a must-try dish for anyone visiting the country. This hearty stew comes with beans, squash, corn, and spices like cumin and paprika, giving it a balanced sweet and savoury flavour. The creamy texture of the stew makes it a perfect comfort food during the summer months when these ingredients are in season. Served with a side of bread or rice, Porotos Granados can enjoy as a main dish or a side dish. Unsurprisingly, this vegetarian-friendly meal is widely popular in Chilean cuisine.
4. Arrollado de Huaso
Arrollado de Huaso, a traditional Chilean dish, is a unique culinary experience that captures the heart of Chile’s cultural heritage. Made with pork belly rolled with a blend of herbs and spices, this dish is typically served cold as an appetizer or snack. Its origins can trace back to the country’s rural areas, where it comes from huasos (Chilean cowboys). Today, Arrollado de Huaso is enjoyed throughout Chile and is often accompanied by pebre, a popular condiment made from tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chilli peppers. This flavorful dish offers a perfect introduction to the diversity of Chilean cuisine.
5. Lomo a Lo Pobre
Lomo a Lo Pobre is a dish representing the heart of traditional Chilean cuisine. This humble meal originated using inexpensive ingredients, such as potatoes, onions, and steak cuts. However, it has become a staple food throughout the country.
The savoury combination of meat, onions, eggs, and fries creates a hearty and filling meal you can enjoy anytime. Whether looking for a quick street food snack or a sit-down dinner with friends and family, Lomo a Lo Pobre is always an excellent choice.
6. Sopa de Patasca
Sopa de Patasca is a classic Chilean soup with a unique blend of flavours and textures. This dish may not be for everyone as it has a strong taste and chewy texture due to adding tripe, but it remains popular among locals and tourists.
Sopa de Patasca often serves during special occasions and festivals, making it an important part of Chilean cuisine. The soup’s hearty nature makes it perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something filling and comforting.
7. Chorillana
Indulge in the unique flavours of Chilean cuisine with Chorillana, a hearty meal that originated in Valparaiso. This dish is the ultimate comfort food and comes with a generous serving of French fries, beef or pork, onions, and fried eggs.
You can customize it with additional toppings such as sausages or avocado. Whether you’re looking for a late-night snack or a hangover cure, Chorillana is the perfect choice.
8. Sopapillas
Sopapillas are a delectable Chilean treat that locals love to indulge in. These small, fried dough circles are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a perfect balance of textures.
Their versatility makes them an all-time favourite – you can enjoy them as a sweet dessert by drizzling honey or syrup, or you can opt for savoury toppings such as pebre. Sopapillas are widely available across street vendors in Chile, making for an excellent snack while sightseeing.
9. Empanadas de Pino
Empanadas de Pino is a beloved Chilean dish representing the country’s culinary heritage. The pastry shell of an empanada is filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, raisins, and black olives that are cooked until golden brown. Empanadas de Pino can find on almost every corner of Chile, from street vendors to traditional restaurants.
These savoury pastries are often enjoyed as a snack or meal and are perfect for people on the go. The dish’s unique blend of flavours and textures makes it a must-try for anyone exploring Chilean cuisine.
10. Humitas
When it comes to traditional Chilean cuisine, Humitas are a staple you cannot miss. Made from masa, these savoury snacks are filled with seasoned meat, cheese, or veggies and steamed to perfection.
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a full meal, Humitas pack in all the flavours of Chile in every bite. These tasty treats often serve during festivals and celebrations as they consider an integral part of Chilean culture.
11. Completo
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious bite in Chile, you can’t go wrong with a Completo. This popular hot dog typically serves with toppings, including tomato, mayonnaise, sauerkraut, and avocado.
The origins of Completo can trace back to the 1920s in Santiago, where it quickly became a beloved street food staple. Today, countless variations of Completo are available throughout Chile, each with its unique twist on this classic dish.
12. Churrasco and Chacarero
Churrasco and Chacarero are two traditional Chilean sandwiches that offer a unique blend of flavours and ingredients. The creamy avocado, juicy tomato, and tangy mayonnaise complement the thinly sliced beef in Churrasco. At the same time, the steak in Chacarero pairs with crisp green beans, spicy chilli peppers, and flavorful tomato.
These sandwiches represent not only the deliciousness of Chilean cuisine but also the creativity and innovation of its people. Their popularity among locals and tourists is a testament to their exquisite taste and should be on every foodie’s must-try list when visiting Chile.
13. Valdiviano
The traditional Chilean soup, Valdiviano, is a must-try for anyone exploring the country’s culinary culture. Made with beef, potatoes, onions, and cheese, this hearty soup originated in the southern city of Valdivia but has since become popular throughout Chile. It’s rich flavours and comforting warmth make it a perfect choice for cooler days. The recipe for Valdiviano can vary depending on personal preferences and regional differences, but the core ingredients remain consistent.
14. Carbonada
Carbonada is a hearty Chilean stew that has its roots in Mapuche cuisine. This flavorful dish comes with beef, potatoes, pumpkin, corn, and other vegetables. What sets carbonada apart from other stews is the combination of spices flavouring the dish, including cumin and paprika.
It often serves in the colder months as a warming meal, perfect for chilly evenings. Carbonada represents the unique blend of flavours in Chilean cuisine and is a must-try for anyone exploring the country’s rich culinary tradition.
15. Pantrucas
Pantrucas is one of the most beloved traditional dishes in Chilean cuisine. This hearty soup combines homemade noodles, flavorful broth, and various vegetables, resulting in a comforting and delicious meal perfect for any occasion. The rich combination of herbs and spices, including oregano, cumin, and paprika, gives Pantrucas its distinct taste while making it a popular choice for colder months.
16. Ceviche
If you’re a fan of seafood, you must try Ceviche – a refreshing and healthy dish popular in many Chilean coastal regions. Made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices, onions, and spices, Ceviche is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids essential for heart health. This low-calorie dish can come with various types of seafood, including shrimp, scallops or octopus.
17. Caldillo de Mariscos
Caldillo de Mariscos is a must-try when visiting Chile if you’re a seafood lover. This traditional seafood stew combines clams, mussels, shrimp, and fish and is popular for its rich and flavorful broth made with onions, garlic, tomatoes, and cilantro. It’s the perfect hearty meal to warm up on chilly days or to enjoy with friends and family during gatherings.
Additionally, the dish is highly customizable- various veggies like potatoes, carrots, and corn can add to the mix depending on your taste preferences. It is an excellent choice for those looking for a fulfilling meal that can cater to their needs.
18. Machas a la Parmesana
Machas a la Parmesana is a dish that captures the essence of Chilean cuisine. This traditional seafood dish comes with razor clams and Parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavours that will delight your taste buds. The razor clams are sautéed in butter or oil and served with garlic, onions, and white wine, which adds depth to the dish. Finally, the clams top with grated Parmesan cheese and broiled until bubbly. The result is a savoury appetizer or seafood platter addition that’s hard to beat.
19. Pastel de Jaiba
If you’re searching for a delicious seafood dish, Pastel de Jaiba is a must-try in Chile. This traditional Chilean food comes with crab meat and mashed potatoes, baked in a pie crust, and served as an appetizer or main course. The dish’s creamy texture and rich flavour will leave you craving more. It’s no wonder that Pastel de Jaiba has become a popular choice for special occasions and holidays in Chilean households.
20. Leche Asada
Leche Asada is a renowned Chilean dessert that embodies the country’s culinary traditions. This creamy and indulgent dessert is prepared by mixing milk, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until it forms a custard-like texture. The dish is then baked and topped with caramelized sugar for added flavour. Leche Asada often serves as a sweet ending to meals or accompany by fruit or whipped cream for extra decadence.
21. Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake is a dessert that locals and visitors in Chile love. This sponge cake soaked in three types of milk – evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream – has a creamy texture and rich flavours. This cake is the perfect way to end your meal and tops with whipped cream and fresh fruit. Unsurprisingly, Tres Leches Cake often find at bakeries and restaurants throughout Chile.
22. Mote con Huesillos
Introducing the benefits of Mote con Huesillos, this traditional Chilean drink is a refreshing thirst quencher perfect for hot summer days. Made with dried peaches, mote, sugar, and cinnamon, it has a sweet yet tangy flavour that tantalizes the taste buds. This drink is a delicious treat and has cultural significance as it has been enjoyed in Chile for generations. Be sure to try Mote con Huesillos at local street vendors and restaurants during your visit to Chile to experience its unique taste and cultural importance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What Food Is Important In Chile?
Chilean cuisine is heavily influenced by indigenous Mapuche culture and European immigrants. Some popular Chilean dishes include empanadas, pastel de choclo, and asado. Seafood is a big part of Chilean cuisine due to its long coastline, with popular dishes like ceviche and curanto.
2. What Is Chile’s National Dish?
Chile’s national dish is either “asado” (grilled meat) or “empanadas” (meat-filled pastries). However, other popular dishes in Chile include “pastel de choclo” (corn pie), “cazuela” (stew), and “curanto” (a seafood dish).
Traditional Chilean cuisine often incorporates indigenous ingredients such as corn, potatoes, and seafood. Chilean wine is also famous worldwide and pairs well with many traditional dishes.
3. What Makes Chilean Cuisine So Unique?
Chilean cuisine uniquely blends indigenous Mapuche culture and Spanish and European influences. Fresh seafood, meats, vegetables, and grains are combined with flavorful spices to create delectable dishes such as empanadas, pastel de choclo (corn pie), and cazuela (stew).
4. Is There A Difference Between Chilean And Peruvian Cuisine?
Yes, there are some notable differences between Chilean and Peruvian cuisine. While both cuisines heavily feature seafood, Peruvian cuisine strongly emphasises spices and herbs, while Chilean cuisine focuses more on meat dishes, particularly beef and lamb.
5. Which Foods Do They Eat In Chile That Are Not Found In Peru?
Chilean cuisine features several dishes that are not commonly found in Peru. Chilean empanadas, savoury pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, are popular food items. Completo, a hot dog topped with avocado and mayonnaise, is another favourite.
Conclusion
Chilean cuisine is a delightful blend of indigenous and European influences that have evolved over centuries. From fresh seafood dishes to hearty meat stews, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the most popular food in Chile include empanadas, pastel de choclo, and churrasco. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try something new or just curious about this South American country’s culinary offerings, Chile’s diverse and delicious cuisine is definitely worth exploring.
Chilean cuisine is a treasure trove of delicious and unique dishes that are a must-try for any foodie. From hearty stews like Cazuela, Porotos Granados, and Carbonada to savoury pastries such as Pastel de Choclo and Empanadas de Pino, Chilean food has something for everyone. If you have a sweet tooth, try Leche Asada, Tres Leches Cake, or Mote con Huesillos. These are just some of the popular foods in Chile that you must try on your next visit.
Pin to your favorite Pinterest boards
