Colombia

Colombian cuisine is a vibrant mix of Indigenous, Spanish, and African influences, with distinct regional variations that celebrate the country’s rich biodiversity. Staples like rice, corn, potatoes, and yuca form the base of many dishes, often paired with beans, plantains, and a variety of meats. A popular national dish is bandeja paisa, a hearty platter featuring rice, beans, fried plantain, chorizo, ground meat, and an arepa, topped with a fried egg. Arepas, corn cakes that come in various forms across the country, are a beloved and versatile snack, often filled with cheese, eggs, or meat. Coastal regions enjoy seafood dishes, with specialties like cazuela de mariscos (a rich seafood stew) and arroz con coco (coconut rice). Soups are also a central part of Colombian meals, with ajiaco – a chicken and potato soup seasoned with herbs – and sancocho, a hearty stew with meat and root vegetables, being particularly popular. Colombian cuisine is flavourful and comforting, offering a warm blend of traditional ingredients and regional diversity.