Cartagena holds a special place in my heart. Growing up in Colombia, it was the destination for our New Year’s family vacation. It is very common for Colombians to travel to Cartagena in January to relax on the beach after the Christmas celebrations. Think of it as a holiday after the holidays.
Nestled on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, the city is steeped in history, culture and culinary treasures. Its vibrant streets are lined with colorful colonial buildings, bustling markets and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Here, you’ll find a fusion of Spanish, African and indigenous influences reflected in its diverse cuisine. From savory street snacks to refreshing tropical drinks, Cartagena offers a gastronomic adventure like no other.
This is where my love of food was born.
If you have the opportunity to visit this wonderful destination, these are a few of the dishes you must try.
A hearty and flavorful fish stew that is popular in coastal regions of Colombia, including Cartagena. It’s a comforting dish that showcases the abundance of fresh seafood available in the area.
These fried yuca fritters filled with seasoned ground meat are a delicious snack or appetizer commonly found in Cartagena. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the savory filling.
This iconic street food is a must-try in Cartagena. It consists of a deep-fried cornmeal pocket filled with a whole egg, creating a crispy exterior with a deliciously gooey center.
Translated literally as rice with coconut, get ready to enjoy a deliciously sweet and creamy side dish. The combination of coconut milk, rice, and a touch of sugar creates a unique and flavorful accompaniment to any meal.
A staple of Colombian cuisine, this must-try dish captures the essence of coastal flavors. It features a whole mojarra fish marinated in a blend of aromatic spices, then deep-fried to achieve a beautifully crispy exterior and a tender, flaky interior. It pairs very well with the arroz con coco, traditionally served together.
This flavorful dish using the tri-tip steak is slow-cooked and then served in a syrupy, spicy Mole Negro sauce. While similar to the classic Oaxacan Mole, no chocolate is incorporated into this Colombian recipe.
While not exclusive to Cartagena, this hearty dish is popular throughout Colombia. It’s a massive platter featuring various elements such as beans, rice, ground meat, chorizo, chicharrón (fried pork belly), plantains, avocado and a fried egg on top. Perfect for those looking to experience a traditional Colombian meal.
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