
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
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.
This crescent-shaped snack is one of the most representative fried foods.
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).
This is the typical arepa of Colombia’s Caribbean Region, popularly known as 'arepa e’ 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.
This cassava pastry is another typical fried snack from Colombia’s Caribbean region.
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.
They are essential side dishes in every meal.
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).
They are one of the most popular and traditional items on a Colombian table, especially during Christmas, although they are enjoyed year-round.
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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