Colombia is located in South America, bordered by Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, and Panama. It is popular for its diverse landscapes, including the Andes mountain range and the Amazon rainforest.
The country has a rich cultural heritage influenced by indigenous communities, Spanish colonialism, and African traditions. Colombia is also famous for its coffee production and vibrant music scene, particularly in genres such as salsa and reggaeton.
You must have heard of the delicious Colombian cuisine if you’re a foodie. A fusion of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences creates a unique blend of flavours. Colombian food is all about fresh ingredients, bold spices, and hearty portions that satisfy any appetite.
We’ve compiled a list of 28 must-try popular food of Colombia. And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t worry because we have desserts like Tres Leches Cake and Natilla Colombiana on the list too. So sit back, grab a snack and get ready to explore the delicious world of Colombian cuisine.
The 28 Must-Try Popular Food Of Colombian
Regarding Colombian cuisine, there’s no shortage of mouth-watering options to try. From hearty soups like Ajiaco and Sancocho de Pescado con Coco to savoury dishes like Bandeja Paisa and Tamales Tolimenses, there’s something for every taste bud to enjoy.
These traditional dishes are not only delicious but also a reflection of the country’s rich cultural heritage. So whether you’re a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure or simply curious about Colombian cuisine, these 28 must-try popular foods will surely delight your taste buds.
1.Ajiaco
Ajiaco is a beloved Colombian soup that warms the soul and satisfies the stomach. This hearty stew comes with chicken, potatoes, corn, and a blend of herbs, giving it a unique flavour profile. Ajiaco is often served with rice and avocado on the side, making it a complete meal.
It’s perfect for colder weather when you need something comforting to warm you up. With its combined savoury, sweet, and sour flavours, Ajiaco is a true fusion dish representing Colombia’s diverse culinary culture.
2.Sancocho De Pescado Con Coco
Sancocho de Pescado con Coco is a dish that can transport you straight to the beaches of Colombia with one bite. This popular soup, made with fish, coconut milk, and vegetables, has its roots in indigenous and African cultures and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
The creamy texture of the coconut milk and the unique flavour profile makes it an ideal comfort food for any occasion. With different regions of Colombia having their own variations of this dish, Sancocho de Pescado con Coco offers a diverse experience that highlights the rich culinary heritage of Colombia.
3.Changua
Starting your day with a warm bowl of Changua is a traditional Colombian breakfast that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized until lunchtime. Made with simple ingredients like milk, scallions, and eggs, this flavorful soup originates from the Andean region of Colombia.
Changua’s unique taste and heartiness are typically served with bread, making it a popular choice for breakfast all over Colombia. To start your day with an authentic Colombian dining experience, try Changua for a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast option.
4.Cazuela De Mariscos
Cazuela de Mariscos is a mouth-watering seafood stew that perfectly captures the essence of Colombian cuisine. It comes with fresh seafood such as shrimp, squid, and mussels, seasoned with spices like cumin and cilantro. This hearty dish is often served with rice and avocado on the side, making it a filling meal.
Whether you’re a fan of seafood or simply looking to try something new, Cazuela de Mariscos is a must-try when visiting Colombia. It’s rich history and unique flavor make it a beloved dish among locals and tourists.
5.Sopa De Mondongo
Sopa de Mondongo, a traditional Colombian soup, is a dish that reflects the country’s diverse culinary influences. Made with tripe and vegetables, it is often seasoned with aji, a spicy sauce that adds depth to the dish. Served with rice and avocado, this hearty soup is a staple in coastal regions of Colombia.
With African and Spanish influences, Sopa de Mondongo has become an iconic dish that locals and tourists enjoy. Whether you’re looking for comfort food on a cold day or want to experience the unique flavours of Colombia, Sopa de Mondongo is worth trying.
6.Empanada
Empanadas are a popular snack or appetizer in Colombia, enjoyed by locals and tourists. These delicious pastries are typically stuffed with meat, potatoes, and spices but can also be filled with cheese or vegetables for a vegetarian option. Empanadas are often served with ají, a spicy salsa made from tomatoes and peppers that perfectly complements the flavours of the filling.
In some regions of Colombia, empanadas come with corn dough instead of wheat flour, giving them a unique texture and taste. Whether on the go or looking for a tasty treat at home, empanadas are perfect for any occasion.
7.Arepas
Arepas are a beloved Colombian staple that can be enjoyed anytime. Made from ground maize dough, they are versatile and can cook in various ways, such as grilling, baking, or frying. One of the benefits of arepas is their ability to fill with various ingredients like cheese, meat, or vegetables.
They’re the perfect on-the-go snack or a quick meal for those with busy schedules. Arepas are essential to Colombian cuisine and can often be at festivals and other cultural events.
8.Papas Criollas Al Horno
Papas Criollas al Horno is a dish beautifully showcasing Colombian cuisine’s simplicity and richness. This dish comes with small yellow potatoes and beloves for its flavorful and hearty taste. The potatoes are first boiled and then baked in an oven after being seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper.
This dish is often served as a side to meat or seafood dishes and is an integral part of traditional Colombian cuisine. Its unique flavour profile makes it a must-try for anyone looking to experience Colombia’s diverse and delicious food culture.
9.Patacones Con Hogao
Patacones con Hogao is a dish that perfectly captures the essence of traditional Colombian cuisine. The crispy plantains and savory tomato-onion sauce complement each other, creating a delicious flavor combination that is hard to resist. This dish is often served as an appetizer or side dish with meat or fish and can be found in most Colombian restaurants.
Patacones con Hogao also offers a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables, making it a healthy and nutritious choice for any meal. So, if you’re looking to try something new and authentic while exploring the diverse flavors of Colombia, Patacones con hogao should definitely be on your list.
10.Buñuelos
If you’re looking for a delicious snack that perfectly captures the unique flavors of Colombian cuisine, then Buñuelos are a must-try. Made from yucca flour, cheese, and eggs, these deep-fried treats are crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside.
With just a sprinkle of sugar or syrup on top, they become an irresistible sweet snack. But Buñuelos can also enjoy a savory treat by omitting the sugar topping. They are served all over Colombia, especially during festive occasions like Christmas.
11.Pandebono
Pandebono is a beloved traditional Colombian cheese bread made with yuca flour, cornmeal, and cheese. This delicious snack has a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior with a savory flavor. It’s a simple dish that packs a lot of flavors and can enjoy on its own or paired with coffee or other beverages.
Pandebono is also easy to make at home and can be found in many Colombian bakeries and restaurants. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, this popular food will surely delight those who try it.
12.Almojabana
When it comes to traditional Colombian cheese bread, almojabana is a must-try. Made with corn flour, eggs, butter, and cheese, these savory treats are chewy and have a slightly sweet taste. Enjoyed as breakfast or a snack, almojabanas are in many Colombian bakeries and cafes.
These treats are popular street food items, too and are commonly sold by vendors on the streets of cities like Bogotá and Medellín. Warm almojabanas paired with hot chocolate or coffee make perfect comfort food on a cold day.
13.Arroz Con Coco y Pasas
Introducing the next must-try dish on our list – Arroz con Coco y Pasas. This traditional Colombian dish comes with rice, coconut, and raisins and is usually a side dish with meat or fish. The combination of sweet coconut and plump raisins gives the dish a unique flavor that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
This dish can find in various ways throughout Colombia, depending on the region, but it is always a must-try for anyone visiting to experience authentic Colombian cuisine. So, add Arroz con Coco y Pasas to your list of must-try foods and indulge in its delicious fusion of flavors.
14.Arroz Con Pollo Colombiano
Arroz con Pollo Colombiano is a classic Colombian dish that combines tender chicken with fluffy rice and vegetables. This one-pot meal is a staple in many households and restaurants across Colombia. The dish is seasoned with a blend of spices, including cumin, saffron, and annatto powder, which give it a unique flavor profile.
The combination of colorful vegetables adds an extra dimension to the dish, making it delicious and visually appealing. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or an authentic taste of Colombia, Arroz con Pollo Colombiano is a must-try dish that won’t disappoint.
15.Chicharrón Colombiano
Chicharrón Colombiano is a beloved dish that has become a staple of Colombian cuisine. One of the reasons for its popularity is its crispy texture and savory flavor. This dish is often consumed as a breakfast food or snack, providing a quick energy boost for the day ahead.
The use of pork belly in this dish may raise concerns for some consumers who are mindful of their diet, but it should note that moderation is key when enjoying Chicharrón Colombiano. This dish can be a delicious and satisfying addition to any meal when consumed in moderation.
16.Tres Leches Cake
Tres Leches Cake has been a dessert integral to Colombian cuisine for decades. This cake’s unique flavor and texture are due to the combination of three types of milk used in its preparation – evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream. This delectable cake is incredibly moist, with a slightly spongy texture and rich, creamy topping.
It is usually served chilled and can flavor with vanilla or other extracts. Tres Leches Cake is perfect for those who love sweet treats and is a must-try dish on your next trip to Colombia.
17.Natilla Colombiana
Introducing Natilla Colombiana, a traditional Colombian dessert that sets the bar high for sweet treats. This custard-like dessert typically serves during the festive Christmas season and comes from milk, sugar, cinnamon, and cloves.
Natilla Colombiana may garnish with grated coconut or sprinkle with cinnamon to enhance its flavor profile. It pairs perfectly well with other Colombian favorites such as buñuelos or empanadas, rounding out a delicious meal in an impossibly sweet way.
18.Limonada De Coco
Introducing a refreshing twist to classic lemonade, Limonada de Coco is a popular coconut limeade in Colombia’s coastal areas. This drink is perfect for beating the heat during hot summer days and pairs excellently with seafood dishes.
Made with freshly squeezed lime juice, coconut cream, water and sugar, it’s easily customizable to personal taste preferences. A garnish of shredded coconut or a slice of lime adds an extra touch to this revitalizing drink, making it an excellent addition to any Colombian meal.
19.Champús
Introducing a traditional Colombian beverage that is as unique as it is refreshing – Champús. Made with maize, pineapple, lulu, and panela, this drink has a sweet and tangy taste that is perfect for a hot day.
While it typically consumes during festive occasions such as Christmas and other celebrations, Champús also has medicinal properties and is handy for treating digestive ailments in some parts of Colombia.
20.Lulada
Introducing the refreshing Lulada, a traditional Colombian drink made with lulo fruit, lime juice, and sugar. This tangy yet sweet delight is perfect for hot summer days and pairs well with classic dishes like empanadas and arepas.
However, Lulada offers more than just its delicious taste; it is also high in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a healthy option. Visitors to Colombia should not miss the opportunity to try this unique beverage that captures the essence of Colombian cuisine.
21.Bandeja Paisa
Bandeja Paisa is a traditional Colombian dish that reflects the country’s diverse culinary traditions. This hearty dish typically includes rice, beans, ground beef, chorizo, fried egg, plantains, and avocado. It is often considered a comfort food and a must-try for anyone visiting Colombia or looking to experience its unique cuisine.
Visitors can gain insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage by indulging in this delicious and filling meal. The Bandeja Paisa represents Colombian hospitality and is best enjoyed with friends and family in a lively setting.
22.Frijoles Antioqueños
Frijoles Antioqueños is one of the most popular dishes in Colombia and a staple in Colombian cuisine. This traditional dish comes with red beans, pork belly, chorizo, and other spices, giving it a rich and hearty flavour.
Typically served with white rice, avocado, and arepas (corn cakes), Frijoles Antioqueños can enjoy as a main course or a side dish. Its popularity lies in its delicious taste and versatility, making it a great option for any meal of the day.
23.Tamales Tolimenses
Tamales Tolimenses is a traditional Colombian dish epitomising the country’s rich culinary heritage. Originating in the Tolima region, these steamed banana leaf-wrapped corn dough pockets contain meats, vegetables, and spices. They often serve during celebration periods such as Christmas or New Year’s Eve.
And you can enjoy it with hot chocolate and ají sauce on the side. With their unique flavour profile and cultural significance, Tamales Tolimenses are an essential dish to try. If you want to explore Colombian cuisine beyond typical popular foods, try it.
24.Sobrebarriga al Horno
The fusion of indigenous ingredients with Spanish and African influences is a distinguishing feature of Colombian cuisine, and Sobrebarriga al Horno is a prime example of this. This popular dish comprises beef flank steak marinated in beer, cumin, and other spices before baking in the oven.
The result is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. Typically served with rice, beans, and plantains, Sobrebarriga al Horno’s rich taste will leave you craving more.
25.Sudado De Pollo
Introducing the delightful Sudado de Pollo, a hearty and flavorful chicken stew that is a staple in Colombian cuisine. This dish features tender chicken pieces cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices such as cumin and oregano, giving it a rich and savory taste.
Served with rice and plantains, Sudado de Pollo is a complete meal that hits all the right notes. What’s great about this dish is its versatility – you can adjust the spice levels or add extra vegetables to customize it. Give Sudado de Pollo a try to experience Colombia’s diverse and delicious flavors.
26.Hormigas Culonas
While it may sound unusual, Hormigas Culonas are an intriguing delicacy and a unique experience for those wanting to try something new. Harvested from the Amazon region, these big-bottomed ants are full of protein. You can roast or fry it before seasoning with salt and spices.
With a nutty and slightly sour taste, they pair well with beer or aguardiente, a popular Colombian liquor. For adventurous foodies visiting Colombia, trying Hormigas Culonas is a must-do activity that provides a glimpse into the diversity of Colombian cuisine.
27.Cabro Santandereano
Cabro Santandereano is a dish embodying Colombia’s rich and diverse culinary traditions. Originating from the Santander region, this dish perfectly captures the hearty flavors of goat meat, potatoes, and yuca. The slow-cooked meat infuses with garlic, onions, and tomatoes while seasoned to perfection with a blend of spices.
This dish often serves with rice and beans or arepas, making for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day. From its unique flavor to its cultural significance in Colombian cuisine, Cabro Santandereano is a must-try for anyone looking to experience all that Colombian food.
28.Posta Negra Cartagenera
Posta Negra Cartagenera, a highly popular dish from the coastal city of Cartagena, is a perfect example of Colombian cuisine’s fusion of African, Spanish, and indigenous flavors. Slow-cooked beef brisket in a dark and savory sauce made with cola, spices, and vegetables is the star of this dish. Served with rice, plantains, and avocado, Posta Negra Cartagena offers a unique blend of textures and tastes sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Conclusion
Colombia is a country with rich and diverse culinary traditions that are worth exploring. Popular food in Colombia will tantalise your taste bud, from the hearty and filling bandeja paisa to the savoury and flavorful empanadas. Whether you’re a foodie looking for new and exciting flavours or simply curious about Colombian cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Colombia has a rich culinary heritage that has influenced indigenous, African, and Spanish cultures. These delicious dishes are a treat for your taste buds and offer insight into the country’s history and culture. From Ajiaco to Posta Negra Cartagenera, Colombian cuisine offers something for everyone. So, next time you plan a trip to Colombia, try these must-have dishes and experience the explosion of flavours firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.Which Colombian Food Will Conquer Your Tastebuds?
Ans: Several Colombian foods are sure to conquer your tastebuds. Arepas, made with corn flour and stuffed with cheese or other fillings, is a must-try. Bandeja paisa is a hearty dish of beans, rice, meat, plantains, and more. Empanadas are another popular snack filled with meat, potatoes, and spices. And for dessert, try poster de natas – a creamy custard topped with caramelized sugar.
2.What Are Flavours In Colombian Food?
Ans: Colombian cuisine is a delicious fusion of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. Common ingredients include plantains, corn, beans, rice, and potatoes. Cumin, coriander, and paprika are commonly handy in Colombian dishes to create bold flavors.
3.Why Is Colombian Chocolate So Special?
Ans: Colombian chocolate is special because it comes from high-quality cocoa beans grown in the country’s tropical climate, which gives them a unique flavor profile. Colombia’s diverse soil and climate conditions contribute to the cocoa beans’ distinct taste.
4.What Is The Difference Between Colombian And Mexican Food?
Ans: Colombian and Mexican food are popular Latin American cuisines but have distinct differences. Colombian cuisine focuses more on meat, potatoes, and rice dishes, while Mexican cuisine uses more spices and chilli peppers.
5.How Do You Eat A Typical Colombian Meal?
Ans: A typical Colombian meal usually includes rice, beans, meat, and plantains. To enjoy this meal, mix the rice and beans on your plate. Then, savour the meat with a side of plantains or other vegetables. Don’t forget to try traditional Colombian dishes like arepas or empanadas to experience the country’s cuisine fully.