Best Colombian Fried Foods: Your Ultimate Guide to Mouthwatering Delicacies

By Esteban Parcero •  Updated: 09/26/23 •  10 min read

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If you’re on the lookout for the best Colombian fried foods, prepare your palate for a treat!

This gastronomic journey will start with Mojarra Frita, a savory fried fish, usually served with traditional side dishes.

Next, indulge in Colombia’s versatile delicacy of Arepa e’ Huevo and Pescado Frito, followed by the exciting assortment of ingredients in the country’s renowned Picada and beloved Arepas.

From there, we’ll introduce you to the components of notorious Bandeja Paisa before delving into mouth-watering empanadas – deep-fried pastries hiding delightful fillings within.

Finally, we’ll unveil a dish from another Latin American country that has found popularity in Colombia: Nicaraguan Fritanga or Picada. So, are you ready to explore?

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Exploring the Delights of Mojarra Frita and Traditional Side Dishes

When it comes to best Colombian fried foods, the Mojarra Frita instantly takes the center stage. This traditional Colombian dish is a true delight with its crispy exterior and tender flesh. And Colombian cuisine plays no short measures when it comes to accompanying side dishes either.

Patacones, or fried green plantains, provide a lovely contrast to the flavorsome fish with their slightly tangy taste. Now that I think about it, these double-fried flat discs are in themselves a renowned feature of Fried delicacies in Colombia.

And oh! The arroz con coco or coconut rice, how could one forget about this sweet-savory combination? All things considered, it’s “the” most favored sidekick for Mojarra Frita among locals and visitors alike.

A Closer Look at Arepa de Huevo and Pescado Frito

Beyond these popular dishes, there’s another duo of deliciousness that stands out as Classic Colombian comfort food. One is Arepa de huevo – a beloved breakfast item, quite literally translating into ‘arepa with egg’.

It’s an intriguing spin on fried corn cakes filled with whole eggs. You see, despite its simplicity this delectable snack is enjoyed at any time of the day.

On the other hand (quite literally!) is Pescado Frito – our deep-fried friend translating as Fried Fish. Served whole – skin and head included – it makes an uncompromising statement about Colombia’s seafood prowess.

Indulging in the Variety of Colombia’s Picada and Famous Arepas

Colombia’s picada, also known as “The Palace of Cholesterol”, showcases a fascinating variety of fried meats.

Chorizo, black pudding, chicharron or fried pork rinds – each component brings a unique flavor to this hearty dish. In any case, to call it one among the Famous fried foods in Colombia would be an understatement.

Speaking of famous, we must mention the ever-present arepas, or cornmeal cakes. Grilled, baked or fried – these humble treats make regular appearances on every Colombian dining table.

Unveiling the Components of the Notorious Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa, unquestionably one of the Traditional Colombian dishes has an infamy that precedes its name. This feast-in-a-plate from the country’s coffee region includes rice, beans and potatoes. And here’s where it gets interesting: it’s crowned with beef and chorizo served with a sunny-side-up for extra vigor!

Isn’t that quite something for a comfort food dish? Yet Bandeja Paisa is much more than just comfort food; it’s an institution.

Rediscovering Empanadas: The Deep-Fried Pastries with Surprising Fillings

Next up on our exploration through Finger-licking deep-fried treats from Colombia, are empanadas – pastries filled with everything from chicken to vegetables.

These turnovers aren’t just delicious but hold an element of surprise in every bite! It’s no wonder then that empanadas are especially loved by fans of Colombian cuisine.

Fritanga or Picada: A Nicaraguan Dish Popular in Colombian Cuisine

Last but certainly not least, we have fritanga or picada. Born in Nicaragua, this dish has found a second home in Colombia, winning hearts with its rich and robust flavors.

A medley of meats including ribs and sausages mixed together with potatoes provides a unique taste experience that is truly unforgettable.

Savoring these diverse range of dishes offers food lovers an authentic taste into the heartwarming world of Authentic Colombian street food. So there you have it, folks! That’s my take on the best Colombian fried foods.

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best colombian fried foods

 

As you enjoy your journey through Colombia’s culinary landscape, the lure of its world-renowned coffee cannot be ignored. However, grabbing a cup of Colombian coffee shouldn’t stop you from indulging in the best Colombian fried foods. From crispy empanadas to tantalizing Patacones, there’s an astounding variety of deep-fried deliciousness to devour.

To ensure you experience these gastronomical delights at their best, timing is everything. If you consult our guide on the best time to visit Colombia , it will help plan your visit when local festivals and fairs fill the streets with food stalls offering an incredible array of Colombian fried foods.

When planning your trip, keep in mind that tasting authentic local cuisine is one of the delightful things included in the list we’ve compiled on things to buy in Colombia . And while traveling through this vibrant country, experiencing its rich and dynamic culinary scene definitely has a cost-but don’t fret! Check out our guide on trip cost to Colombia for a detailed breakdown that will help budget for these scrumptious treats.

My Personal Take about Best Colombian Fried Foods

Hey amigo!

I’m Esteban Parcero, your guide to everything delightful and delicious in Colombia. Traveling across this vibrant country has been my life’s passion, and I can’t wait to share the wonders of our cuisine with you! Today, we’re diving into the magic of Colombian fried food. Hold on tight because your taste buds are in for a ride! The best Colombian fried foods aren’t just meals; they are an unforgettable experience shaping the unique identity of our beautiful homeland.

Fried Food Fiesta!

We’ll start off with Empanadas – deep-fried pastries filled with meat or cheese, then move on to Arepas – crispy cornmeal pancakes that are a staple at every Colombian meal. Next up is Chicharrón – thick slices of belly pork fried until they crackle delightfully as you bite into them. And finally, indulge yourself in Patacones – green plantains smashed flat and deep-fried twice for ultimate crispiness.

Each tantalizing dish offers new flavors hinting at Colombia’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. After all, what better way to explore a country than through its food?

Come join me on this journey of discovery and by the time we’re done you won’t just know about the ‘Best Colombian Fried Foods’, you’ll be craving them! So pack those bags amigos because Colombia’s gastronomic wonders await your arrival!

 
 
 
 
 
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Frequently Asked Questions about Best Colombian Fried Foods

Before you go…

As you immerse yourself in the tempting world of Colombian fried foods, remember that planning a trip to this gastronomic paradise should add to your excitement rather than detract from it. For a smooth and stress-free experience, you can refer to our comprehensive guide on how to plan a trip to Colombia. This will ensure that you have ample time and resources not only for indulging in Colombia’s finest crispy treats but also for experiencing the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture of this incredible country.

But before you start your food adventures, it is essential that you equip yourself with some necessary information. Learn about what precautions to take, appropriate etiquette, customs regulations and other relevant details by checking out our post on things to know before traveling to Colombia. This pre-travel knowledge will make your quest for the best Colombian fried foods even more enjoyable and hassle-free!

 

 

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Esteban Parcero

Esteban Parcero, a Puerto Rican, that has a deep connection with Colombia, which he considers his second home. He has been frequently visiting the country for over a decade, immersing himself in the vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. Esteban has made many friends in Colombia and particularly loves Medellín for its stunning landscapes, nightlife, and people. Through his travels, Steve has gained a unique perspective on Latin American culture and has become an advocate for promoting cultural exchange between different countries.

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