Slowly but surely, Panama has earned its place among the top gastronomic capitals of Latin America, where it´s possible to enjoy food from all over the world. However, to truly experience our authentic tropical flavors, we invite you to try traditional Panamanian food.
The following list includes seven traditional dishes you should not miss while visiting Panama:
HOJALDRA
A hojaldra is a delicious and versatile fried bread, one of the most popular Panamanian fried foods. You can eat it plain, savory, sweet, with cheese, with “criolla” sauce, or cinnamon sugar.
SANCOCHO
The king of our traditional dishes is, arguably, the Sancocho. The popularity of this tasty soup lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor, achieved with a minimum of ingredients: free-range hen, ñame (a root vegetable), and cilantro. It may be found throughout Panama City and is best served alongside a hefty portion of white rice and sweet plantains.
CARIMAÑOLAS
Carimañolas are a delicious treat more commonly eaten for breakfast, although they can be enjoyed at any time of day. They are a crunchy yuca roll filled with ground beef and deep fried to a golden color.
CHORIZO TABLEÑO
A traditional chorizo from Las Tablas in the province of Los Santos is a true local delight. This artisanal smoked pork sausage is still made the traditional way and provides a burst of Panamanian flavor in every bite.
CEVICHE
Ceviche is one thing you will surely find at most panamanian celebrations. Fish (or other seafood) is “cooked” in a mixture of lime juice, scotch bonnet peppers, onions, and cilantro for one or two days, then it is usually served alongside soda crackers, fried plantains, or small wheat cracker baskets. It is a perfect pairing for a cold beer on a warm tropical afternoon.
GUACHO DE RABITO o MARISCOS
“Guacho” is a traditional Panamanian dish that is no longer easy to find. A few restaurants in the city still serve this hearty stew, which combines rice, beans, pork tails, and yuca. This combination results in a truly unique, uncommon dish for people with a hearty appetite. A version of Guacho with seafood is also common in some coastal communities.
BOLLO DE MAIZ NUEVO
One of the most traditional corn-based preparations in Panama is the classic Bollo. Fresh corn is ground into a dough, wrapped in a corn husk, and then boiled until firm. It is the perfect companion for fresh cheese and coffee.
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