Everything you need to know about Colombian street food

Colombian street food ranges from the crunchy arepa de huevo to the richly flavored fried empanadas. There's something for meat eaters and vegetarians alike, so find out everything you need to know about the MVP of Latin American cuisine.

Picture yourself navigating the serpentine alleys of Bogota or the animated marketplaces of Medellin. This culinary odyssey leads you through Colombia's vibrant streets and food stalls, where enticing scents and the sound of sizzling pans permeate the atmosphere.

Amidst the woven "canastas," or baskets, brimming with empanadas and vendors hawking arepas de huevo, you'll encounter the melding of indigenous, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences that have sculpted Colombian street food into a distinct and dynamic gastronomy.

With its smells and colors, Colombian street food invites you to visit and sample the best its diverse sub-cultures have to offer. From small mom-and-pop shops to world-renowned chefs, there's more to Colombian street food than you've ever imagined.

Savory Colombian Empanadas

Colombian empanadas are a beloved snack relished by both locals and tourists. These savory turnovers are crafted by encasing a seasoned blend of meat, potatoes, and onions within a pocket of corn dough. Unlike their baked Argentinian counterparts, Colombian empanadas are traditionally fried, adding a delectable crunch to every bite.

Originating from Spanish culinary traditions, empanadas have evolved with regional variations across Colombian cuisine, each locale presenting its own interpretation of this classic fare. Among the popular twists are "empanadas de pipian," with a filling of pumpkin, and "empanadas de cambray," bursting with shrimp and cheese.

Typically accompanied by ají or a dedicated empanada sauce, these pastries are a flavorful journey through Colombian heritage.

The Classic Corn Cake Arepas

Arepas are a foundational element of the diet in many Latin American countries, particularly Colombia and Venezuela. These delightful corn cakes are naturally gluten-free and simple to prepare, contributing to their widespread appeal. With roots tracing back to the indigenous cultures of Latin America, who regarded corn as a dietary staple, arepas have evolved to be enjoyed with a variety of fillings, including cheese, meat, or avocado, or simply savored with butter or jam. Variants such as "Arepa con queso" can incorporate diverse cheeses like mozzarella, feta, or queso blanco.

“When traveling through Colombia, be sure to stop and try an arepa in every town. What you will quickly discover is that no two are alike. Colombia is a medley of history and cultures; with a humble arepa sampling, you can taste the difference everywhere you stop.” 

— Kita Roberts, RomanticWeekendGetaways.com

A particularly beloved street food variant is the "arepa de huevo," a crispy corn cake enveloping a cooked egg, fried to perfection and typically served with "hogao," a scrumptious homemade tomato-and-onion sauce, and a wedge of lime.

The Grilled Delicacy of Chuzos

Chuzos," a quintessential South American dish, consists of skewered and grilled meats, vegetables, and fruits. While ingredients and methods may vary by region, these skewers typically feature beef, chicken, pork, or sausage, all marinated in an array of spices and sauces.

Some regional adaptations might include shrimp, fish, or an assortment of vegetables like peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Chuzos are commonly served alongside potatoes, rice, or salad and are complemented by a selection of sauces, such as chimichurri or aji.

Buñuelos Offer A Time-Honored Treat

Dating back to ancient times, buñuelos originated in Spain during the 16th century. These small, deep-fried dough balls or discs are concocted from a blend of flour, eggs, sugar, butter, and yeast.

Regional Colombian variations might infuse anise or cinnamon into the dough. Traditionally associated with holidays and special occasions, buñuelos can be enjoyed plain or with a range of toppings like honey, chocolate sauce, or powdered sugar.

Tamales Are The Hearty Staple

A favorite among students and commuters, Colombian tamales are a hearty street food staple. Made with cornmeal, chicken, and a medley of other ingredients, they are usually steamed within banana leaves.

With a history that spans centuries, Colombian tamales are a vital component of the nation's culinary identity. Chicken tamales, filled with shredded chicken and spices, and Bogotano or Santafereño tamales, packed with pork, chicken, vegetables, and rice, are among the popular varieties.

Avocado, salsa, and hot sauce are common accompaniments that enhance the flavors of Colombian tamales.

Get Stuffed with Papa Rellena

Papa rellena," a distinctive Colombian street food, consists of mashed potatoes stuffed with a savory mixture of meat, onions, carrots, and peas, then shaped into a ball and deep-fried. The result is a warm, crispy exterior with a creamy and flavorful interior.

Often served as a snack or appetizer, papa rellena can also be a full meal when accompanied by a side salad or vegetables. It's typically enjoyed with a dipping sauce or hogao, adding an extra layer of flavor to this comforting dish.

A Taste of Colombia's Streets

Colombian street food offers a rich sampling of the country's culinary culture and diversity. Whether you're in the mood for something savory, sweet, or spicy, Colombia's lively streets have an array of choices to satisfy any craving.

This article is based on one that originally appeared on Food Drink Life.