A Beginner’s Guide to Colombian Cuisine: Which Dishes to Try First

Colombia is a country of immense cultural and gastronomic wealth. Each region of the country offers unique dishes and distinctive flavors that delight the palate. If you are visiting Colombia for the first time, you cannot leave without trying the best of Colombian cuisine.

What Colombian dishes should you try first?

This guide takes you on a culinary journey through Colombia’s most emblematic dishes and, for the most unforgettable gastronomic experience, suggests the best order in which to enjoy these incredible dishes.

Arepas

There’s no better way to start your gastronomic journey in Colombia than with an arepa. While this food staple accompanies almost every meal, it is particularly popular for breakfast or dinner. From arepas de choclo (arepas made from sweet corn and cheese) to the egg-stuffed arepas typical of the Caribbean Coast, each bite reflects the soul of Colombian cuisine. If you enjoy sweet and savory flavors, your first choice should be the arepa de choclo.

Bandeja Paisa

Colombia’s bandeja paisa is a feast served on a single plate. Originating in Antioquia, this dish combines beans, rice, pork crackling, ground meat, a fried egg, ripe plantain, arepa, and avocado. It’s a hearty meal that represents the generosity and diversity of Colombian cuisine. It is typically enjoyed at lunchtime, and its abundance makes it ideal for those who want to try a little bit of everything.

Ajiaco

Ajiaco is a traditional soup from Colombia’s Cundiboyacense region. It is prepared with three types of potatoes, corn on the cob, shredded chicken, and guascas, an indigenous herb. It is served with cream, capers, and avocado, creating a comforting flavor perfect for cold days. This dish is popular during lunchtime and is a must-try if you visit Cundinamarca, Boyacá, or Bogotá, where you’ll find the best ajiaco in the country.

Sancocho

Sancocho is an iconic dish that varies by region. It can be made with beef, pork, chicken, or fish and is served with cassava, plantain, corn on the cob, and a side of rice. It’s traditionally enjoyed at family gatherings.

If you’re on the Caribbean Coast, try the fish sancocho; in the country’s interior, the chicken sancocho is an excellent choice.

Lechona

Lechona, originating from Tolima, is a culinary masterpiece. This dish consists of a roasted pig stuffed with rice, peas, and spices, with its skin cooked to crispy perfection. It’s a festive dish that stands out for its unique flavor and traditional preparation.

Colombian desserts

For dessert lovers, Colombia offers a variety you can’t miss. Among the most notable options are:

• Postre de natas: Made from boiled milk, this is a traditional, must-try Colombian flavor.
• Merengón: Made with soursop or strawberries, this dish is perfect for those who enjoy intense sweetness.
• Aborrajado: Recently chosen by Taste Atlas as Colombia’s best dessert, aborrajado is made from deep fried plantains stuffed with cheese.
• Brevas con arequipe: A delicious combination of classic flavors, this traditional dessert from Bogota consists of figs cooked with sugar or arequipe, a type of caramel.

If it’s your first time trying Colombian desserts, start with the postre de natas for an introduction to Colombia’s traditional flavors. Alternatively, if you have a sweet tooth, merengon is an excellent choice.