How about discovering a country that’s as tasty as it is spectacular? In Colombia, culinary traditions are deeply rooted, dishes are bursting with generosity and markets are overflowing with tropical treasures. A real treat for curious travellers… and gourmets!
Savoury must-haves: Colombia on your plate
Ajiaco – Bogotá’s heart-warming dish
Typical of the Colombian capital, ajiaco is a thick, comforting soup made from three varieties of potato, shredded chicken, corn on the cob and a local aromatic herb called guasca. It’s accompanied by white rice, sliced avocado, crème fraîche and capers, for a totally unique balance of textures and tastes. It’s a dish that evokes childhood, family and Sundays at home. A real delight, especially on a rainy day!
Bandeja Paisa – Abundance made in MedellÃn
Welcome to the Antioquia region, where bandeja paisa is king. This ultra-generous dish is a veritable feast: rice, red beans, minced meat, chicharrón (crispy pork belly), fried egg, avocado, plantain… and often an arepa as a bonus! Each bite tells the story of a culture that’s committed to conviviality and sharing. Best enjoyed on an empty stomach!
Arepas – Corn cakes that everyone loves
It’s impossible to travel in Colombia without coming across (and adopting) arepas. These seemingly simple corn cakes are in fact an institution. Each region prepares them differently: plain, stuffed with melting cheese, meat or even eggs. They are eaten for breakfast, as a side dish or as a snack. Their slightly sweet taste and soft texture make them an essential part of everyday Colombian life.
Empanadas – The crispy snack to enjoy on the go
Colombian empanadas are small fried turnovers, usually filled with potatoes, meat or cheese. The pastry, made from maize, becomes golden brown and crunchy when cooked. They’re the perfect snack to enjoy while walking through the busy streets, especially with a spicy ajà sauce. You’ll see them everywhere… and you’ll soon understand why!
Colombian sweets: a sweet interlude
Oblea – A sweet and fun break
Oblea is the street dessert par excellence. Two thin, crunchy wafers, generously spread with arequipe (milk caramel), sometimes topped with grated coconut, jam, chocolate or even grated cheese (yes, yes!). It’s a snack that’s as fun as it is tasty, perfect for a sweet break while out and about.
Tropical fruit – A carnival of tastes and colours
Colombia is a paradise for lovers of exotic fruits. You’ll discover marvels unknown in Europe, such as lulo (tangy and fresh), guanábana (sweet and creamy), curuba (a kind of elongated passion fruit) and yellow pitaya, the famous ‘dragon fruit’. The best part? Taste them in freshly squeezed juice or in colourful fruit salads, sold in every market.
Cuajada con Melao – Andean rustic sweetness
This traditional dessert is simple and authentic: cuajada, a soft fresh cheese, drizzled with melao, a hot panela syrup (unrefined cane sugar). The combination of creaminess and sugar gives a rustic, slightly salty-sweet sensation, perfect to round off a good meal in the countryside or mountains.
Colombian cuisine: an immersive experience
Empanadas workshop in Bogotá – Cook like a local!
Looking for an original souvenir? Take part in a culinary workshop in the capital. You’ll learn how to prepare homemade empanadas and local sauces in a friendly atmosphere. The activity is available in French, vegetarian on request, and perfect for curious people of all ages!
✨ Travelling with taste… and heart
In Colombia, gastronomy is much more than a matter of taste: it’s a bridge to culture, traditions and, above all, people. Eating here is about sharing. It’s about creating memories.
So if you love a trip that tugs at the heartstrings as much as the taste buds, let yourself be tempted by a culinary adventure in Colombia!
