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Five traditional fried foods of typical Colombian food

Fritos can be found in every corner of Colombia. On the street, in a store or in a restaurant, as these foods are part of the daily life and identity of Colombians

What are the best fried snacks?

Fried snacks, like all traditional Colombian food, are a representation of the country's culture and, at the same time, a tribute to the traditions of the different regions of Colombia. For this reason, it is not easy to answer this question, because there is a great variety throughout the different regions of Colombia, especially in the Colombian Caribbean. The cuisine of the Caribbean region has been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, thanks to its culinary flavors passed down from generation to generation through oral tradition. That’s why the taste of an arepa de huevo, Colombian empanadas, a carimañola, some patacones, or Colombian buñuelos can tempt just about anyone. Here are the five most iconic Colombian fried snacks, a living memory and cultural heritage preserved daily in cities across the country.

 

Colombian empanadas

This crescent-shaped snack is one of the most representative fried foods.

Infographic about the empanada, a filled Colombian fried snack.

Colombian empanadas are traditionally made with corn flour and can have various fillings: chicken, minced or ground meat and/or rice, only cheese, shredded beef and/or potatoes, or even just egg. Their crunchy corn dough can also be made from puff pastry, cassava, or pipián (a seasoned mashed potato filling).

 

Arepa de huevo

This is the typical arepa of Colombia’s Caribbean Region, popularly known as 'arepa e’ huevo'.

Infographic about the Colombian arepa de huevo.

These are corn arepas filled with an egg. Making them is quite a challenge, as it takes practice to get them just right. First, the dough is fried, then a raw egg is poured inside, and they are fried again. Besides this traditional method, these Colombian arepas can also be filled with shredded meat or chopped beef.

 

Carimañola, a real delicacy

This cassava pastry is another typical fried snack from Colombia’s Caribbean region.

Infographic about the carimañola, a Colombian cassava-based fried snack.

Carimañolas are filled with meat, chicken, or cheese, depending on the region where they are made. They are usually served with a dressing called suero costeño or sour cream (a thick sauce made with salted cheese). This iconic item of traditional cuisine can be eaten at any time of day: for breakfast, as a snack, or as an appetizer.

 

Patacones

They are essential side dishes in every meal.

Infographic about patacones, Colombian fried green plantain slices.

These are smashed green plantains or guineos that are fried and sometimes served topped with chicken, shredded meat, or shrimp. Like carimañolas, they are often accompanied by suero, costeño cheese, guacamole, hogao (a tomato and onion sauce), or ají (spicy sauce).

 

Colombian buñuelos

They are one of the most popular and traditional items on a Colombian table, especially during Christmas, although they are enjoyed year-round.

Infographic about buñuelo, a traditional Colombian Christmas fried snack.

Colombian buñuelos are traditionally made with costeño cheese (a white Colombian cheese slightly saltier than fresh cheese) and corn flour. They are fluffy inside and crispy on the outside.

VIDEO: HOW TO MAKE COLOMBIAN BUÑUELOS

In Colombia, countless dishes are served at the table, but as you’ve just seen, traditional preparations make up the menu. That’s what Colombian cuisine is all about: a tribute to culture and a symbol of togetherness. Join the table, because in Colombia, we share as a family!

 

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