As you embark on a culinary journey through South American cuisine, starting with the perfect Chilean appetizer is crucial for setting the tone. The country’s unique geographical orientation and climate have given rise to an array of fruits, vegetables, and agricultural produce, which in turn, have shaped its diverse culinary landscape.
Chilean dishes owe their origins to a blend of Mapuche culture and Spanish cuisine, with European influences added later.
This cultural melting pot has resulted in the development of distinct flavors and ingredients that define Chilean cuisine. The country’s coastal regions are also teeming with seafood options, including mollusks, fish, algae, and crustaceans.
What truly elevates the dining experience is the inclusion of an appetizer that complements the main course. To this end, we’ve curated a list of 19 mouth-watering Chilean appetizers that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
From classic empanadas to innovative fusion dishes, these options are sure to delight even the most adventurous palates.
As you explore this list, feel free to mix and match to find the perfect combination for your Chilean main course. But be sure not to miss out on #18 – a true gem for all empanada enthusiasts!
Salsa Verde
The Chilean Salsa Verde is a beloved appetizer that not only serves as a flavorful start to a meal but also doubles as a versatile sandwich spread or filling. Its unique characteristic lies in its winter iteration, which replaces the more abundant tomato-based pebre with parsley as the star ingredient – a clever adaptation given the scarcity of tomatoes during this season.
The key to this salsa’s bright and zesty taste lies in the meticulous mixing of finely chopped parsley with a squeeze of lemon juice and a splash of vinegar. However, it’s essential to note that its freshness is fleeting, making it crucial to use only the freshest parsley available and consume it within one sitting to truly appreciate its vibrant flavor and appealing texture.
Sopapillas (Pumpkin Fritters)
Chilean Sopapillas, also known as Pumpkin Fritters, are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed not just as an appetizer, but also for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. They pair perfectly with another Chilean main course or your favorite coffee, evoking the warmth of Chilean culture. The star of the show is a pumpkin-spiced dough, drizzled with a rich brown sugar syrup – although some prefer to sprinkle powdered sugar on top instead.
Interestingly, the most widely used sweetener in this recipe is chancaca, adding an extra layer of authenticity to this traditional treat.
Palta Reina
In Chile, Palta Reina is affectionately known as the ‘queen of the avocado’, and it’s no surprise that this appetizer’s main attraction is none other than the creamy, versatile avocado. In Latin America, avocados are a staple, and this dish showcases their unique properties. To preserve the fruit’s vibrant green color and prevent oxidation, it’s crucial to immediately dress sliced avocados with lemon juice after cutting them.
When combined with succulent seafood options like tuna, crab, or shrimp, crunchy corn, melted cheese, and tangy mayonnaise, each bite becomes an epicurean adventure! Given the starring role of avocado, it’s worth learning how to select this nutritious fruit at its best.
Pequenes
In the heart of Chilean cuisine lies a delightful appetizer that complements any main course – Pequenes, also affectionately known as caramelized onion empanadas. This classic treat is comprised of a flaky pastry puff filled to the brim with sweetly caramelized onions and a hint of Latin spices, carefully balanced to create a harmonious balance of flavors.
The subtle nuances of the spices expertly temper the natural sweetness of the onions, culminating in a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress at any gathering, whether it be during the holidays or an impromptu get-together.
Pebre Y Chancho En Piedra (Chilean Salsa)
The Pebre y Chancho En Piedra is a beloved Chilean condiment that has earned a reputation for its bold flavors and satisfying taste. With only a handful of ingredients, this salsa may seem simple at first glance, but the harmony of fresh tomatoes and subtle spices yields a surprisingly homey flavor profile. Its versatility makes it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, crusty bread, or crispy chips.
To unlock its full potential, consider chilling the salsa for at least 30 minutes before serving. This small indulgence can make all the difference in bringing out the nuances in this delectable condiment.
Machas A La Parmesana
Contrary to what one might expect, the origins of this classic Chilean appetizer don’t lie with a local resident. Instead, it was an Italian immigrant named Edoardo Melotti Ferrari who brought his own unique twist to the table. The dish in question is made by baking razor clams still in their shells and topping them with a rich medley of ingredients, including wine, cheese, and more.
As the cheese melts and the clams’ natural saltiness comes through, the result is a flavor experience that’s at once bold and harmonious.
Chilean Chorrillana Fries
In Chilean cuisine, Chorillana is a culinary phenomenon that has a similar appeal to fries and meat combos found in American fast-food. The dish is a masterclass in contrasts, offering a savory and indulgent experience that’s hard to resist. When you take a bite, the harmonious fusion of flavors and textures will leave you craving more.
Whether it’s served as a generous main course or a tantalizing appetizer, Chorillana never fails to impress, thanks in part to its crowning glory: the runny, sunny-side-up egg that adds an extra layer of richness to each bite.
Mini Pizza
One of the most appealing Chilean appetizers that requires minimal time investment is actually pizza! That’s right – instead of using traditional dough, this mini pizza variant employs flatbread. You can customize it with ground beef seasoned with spices or get creative with unique topping combinations. The finishing touches come in the form of olive oil and pepper relish, which will undoubtedly leave you craving more.
Pebre Sauce
In Chile, the Pebre Sauce is another staple condiment that can be prepared in various ways depending on the cook’s preference. This tangy sauce serves as an excellent appetizer, pairing well with either crispy chips or a crusty flatbread before the main event. One of the best aspects of Pebre Sauce is its versatility – feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your unique flavor profile.
At its core, however, the classic combination consists of cilantro, olive oil, chili peppers, garlic, and chopped onions. When blended with the added depth of chopped tomatoes, the resulting taste is a perfect balance of sour, spicy, and earthy notes.
Salmon Ceviche
While ceviche is a dish that can vary greatly depending on the region and chef, this Chilean salmon ceviche stands out due to its unique approach to preparing the fish. Instead of cutting it into traditional small cubes, the salmon is diced into tiny pieces, similar to tartare, allowing for a pleasant textural experience when consumed. The flavor profile is also distinct, with a tangy quality derived from the lime, lemon, and grapefruit juice.
However, what truly sets this dish apart are the subtle yet intriguing notes of spices, including coriander, smoked paprika, and cilantro, which add depth and complexity to each spoonful.
Sweet Chile Chicken Wings
Indulge in the most succulent and tantalizing chicken wings you’ve ever had, where the tender meat is a testament to the cooking process. A slow-cooked crock pot session sets the stage, followed by a finishing touch in the broiler, yielding a crispy texture that will leave you craving more. The star of the show is sriracha, providing just the right amount of heat to tantalize your taste buds.
If you’re running low on this signature ingredient, don’t worry – a helpful FAQ guide awaits, complete with substitutes to keep your culinary dreams alive.
Pan Amasado
Pan Amasado, a traditional Chilean bread, boasts a flaky crust giving way to a tender interior. Its distinctive disc shape and golden brown hue are the result of careful baking, punctuated by evenly spaced holes on top. This delightful appetizer is elevated by its ability to be paired with a variety of sweet and savory accompaniments, from rich butter to fruity jam. The key to achieving Pan Amasado’s signature softness lies in the judicious use of lard or butter during preparation.
Whether you enjoy it as an introductory course, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a comforting breakfast treat spread with your favorite toppings, Pan Amasado is sure to please.
Chimichurri Fries
Indulge in the bold flavors of South America by giving this Chimichurri Fries recipe a try. The combination of crispy fries smothered in tangy chimichurri sauce and topped with crumbly Queso Fresco is a game-changer. Once you experience this unique twist on traditional American fries, you’ll never settle for plain old fries again.
Ensalada Chilena
In a rush but looking for a flavorful and effortless start to your meal? Look no further than the Ensalada Chilena, a quintessential Chilean appetizer that’s as easy to prepare as it is to devour. With just a few key ingredients, this salad manages to balance bold flavors, from the tangy tomatoes to the sweet onions.
Garlic Butter Langostino
Indulge in the delectable combination of flavors and textures in Garlic Butter Langostino, a seafood delight that will leave you craving more. This mouthwatering dish can be paired with a variety of main courses, including non-Chilean options, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Imagine the richness of buttery garlic sauce perfectly complemented by the tanginess of lemon and the sweetness of langostino.
When these flavors meld together, the result is nothing short of culinary heaven on your palate.
Anticuchos
For those seeking authentic Chilean appetizers, anticuchos – or skewers – are an excellent choice. This traditional dish typically features meat as its star, but this recipe takes a delicious detour by incorporating pork loin, sirloin beef, and longaniza. Adding bell peppers, lemon, and spices to the mix gives it a bold flavor profile. To take it to the next level, a drizzle of honey adds a sweet and savory undertone that will leave your palate craving more.
Perfect as a lighter starter option, anticuchos are sure to delight and prepare your taste buds for the courses to come.
Red Onion & Gorgonzola Flatbread
Elevate your dinner table with this delectable Red Onion & Gorgonzola Flatbread, a straightforward yet satisfying culinary delight. While the yeasted dough does demand a bit more time in the kitchen, the end result is well worth the wait. This harmonious fusion of sweet and savory flavors from caramelized red onion and rich gorgonzola cheese will leave you craving another bite.
Empanadas De Pino
Empanadas De Pino, a mouthwatering Chilean delight, boasts a unique blend of savory and sweet flavors. The harmonious union of juicy ground beef, creamy boiled eggs, and briny olives will surely satisfy the cravings of meat enthusiasts. A surprising yet welcome addition is the sweetness from the raisins, which also provides a satisfying texture contrast.
Chilean Ceviche
When it comes to Chilean Ceviche, one might assume that the combination of garlic, lemon juice, and bell peppers is foolproof. The subtle kick from a dash of cayenne pepper and salt adds a delightful balance of heat, allowing the white fish to shine. Meanwhile, the fresh flavors of cilantro and red onion provide an earthy and floral aroma that complements the dish nicely.
While you can enjoy this ceviche with traditional accompaniments like toast, chips, or crackers, wrapping it in lettuce leaves offers a refreshing twist. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or main course, rest assured that your taste buds will be delighted.
The bottom line
Indulging in Chilean appetizers is a true culinary delight. The combination of scorching heat, satisfying texture, natural sweetness, and savory saltiness harmonizes to create an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more. These mouthwatering small plates are the perfect precursor to the main course, setting the tone for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
And if you’re looking to round out your Chilean culinary adventure, don’t forget to explore our selection of 17 sweet and tasty desserts! Whether you’re celebrating South American cuisine or simply looking to spice up your mealtime routine, Chilean appetizers are sure to leave you wanting more.
