Elevate your next gathering with a flavorful journey through Colombian cuisine! The perfect blend of Afro-Caribbean, European influences can be found in these 27 mouth-watering appetizers that will leave your guests wanting more. While traditional baked goods and sweets are a staple in Colombia, it’s the diverse array of snacks and starters that truly shine.
With recipes like Aborrajados, Arepa De Choclo, and Hogao (Colombian Creole Sauce), you’ll be transported to the vibrant streets of Colombia where these popular dishes are savored by locals and visitors alike. For the more adventurous, try your hand at Fried Hormigas Culonas, Chicharrones Colombian Fried Pork Belly, or Chuzos De Carne – the perfect challenge for any food enthusiast. And the best part? You can recreate these Colombian classics in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Colombian Beef & Potato Empanadas
Indulge in the rich flavors of Colombia with an irresistible twist on traditional empanadas. This delectable combination of Yukon gold potatoes, ground pork, and beef is not only effortless to prepare but also boasts an authentic Colombian flair. The true magic lies in the generous use of spices that elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a treat for the senses.
Vegan Colombian Empanadas
Indulge in a flavorful vegan empanada experience without compromising your values. The harmonious blend of cornmeal, potato, rice, and mixed vegetables yields a scrumptious Colombian appetizer that will leave you wanting more. This crowd-pleasing recipe is remarkably easy to prepare and can serve up to 24 people, making it perfect for gatherings or events.
Chicharrones Colombian Fried Pork Belly
The world of Colombian cuisine offers a treasure trove of mouth-watering appetizers, with chicharrón being one of the most irresistible. This delectable treat consists of crispy fried pork belly that’s bursting with flavor. A blend of bay leaves, black peppercorns, Szechuan peppercorns, and star anise adds depth to this dish, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast. The harmonious balance of these ingredients ensures that the complexity of flavors will leave you craving more.
Chicharrón De Pescado Con Ají De Mango
While traditional chicharron recipes focus on frying pork rinds to crispy perfection, there’s a fascinating seafood twist that’s just as delectable. The dish in question, often referred to as fish fritters with mango sauce, is a game-changer for anyone looking to mix things up and try something new. With its unique combination of textures and flavors, it’s no wonder this variation has gained popularity among adventurous eaters.
Baked Patacones With Mojo Sauce
Familiarity with Spanish dishes like tostones sets the stage for a culinary journey in Colombia. Here, patacones – crispy, smashed plantains – take center stage as a beloved appetizer. But what happens when you give this traditional treat a baked makeover? The result is nothing short of magical. When paired with a zesty mojo herb sauce that adds a spicy kick, the combination is so tantalizing that it can be whipped up in just 30 minutes.
Colombian Patacones, Chicken & Guacamole
Sometimes, our taste buds yearn for a culinary experience that defies categorization – a harmonious balance of contrasting textures and flavors. It’s as if we’re craving a symphony of sensations on our palate. Little do we know, this gastronomic nirvana can be found in one of Colombia’s most beloved appetizers.
Colombian Arepas
Indulge in the warm, comforting taste of Colombia’s beloved white corn tortillas – arepas! These versatile treats are often served as a side dish, but can easily be transformed into an appetizer that’s quick to prepare and will satisfy your cravings. With just 20 minutes on your hands, you can whip up these tasty morsels by simply gathering water, salt, and masarepa, then kneading, cutting, and cooking them to perfection.
Aborrajados
Indulge in the simplicity and richness of Colombian cuisine by whipping up a delightful plantain and cheese appetizer. If you’ve got ripe bananas or plantains lingering in your kitchen, you’re just 12 minutes away from savoring a match made in heaven. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee, rich chocolate, or hearty oatmeal for the ultimate indulgence.
Gluten-Free Colombian Bunuelos
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Colombia this winter by cooking up a batch of Bunuelos. These addictive treats boast a crispy exterior giving way to a soft, dense crumb – it’s no wonder they’re a staple at Christmas gatherings and beyond. And when you top them with rich piloncillo syrup, you’ll be hooked. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or just looking for a taste of winter cheer, Bunuelos are sure to satisfy.
Panamanian Carimanolas
The culinary fusion of beef and yuca, or cassava, yields an unexpected yet mouthwatering Colombian appetizer – carimanolas. These crispy fritters have earned their place among the world’s most delectable treats. For those seeking a recipe that will leave a lasting impression on family gatherings, this is undoubtedly a dish worth remembering.
Plátanos Asados Con Coco
When it comes to effortless Colombian appetizers, some of the best options don’t require much preparation at all. In fact, a simple combination of ripe plantains, creamy coconut, rich coconut milk, melted butter, and a drizzle of honey can result in a flavorful experience that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
Plátanos Asados Con Bocadillo Y Queso
As the excitement builds for your next picnic or barbecue gathering, consider elevating the experience with a surprising yet delicious Colombian treat. This mouthwatering appetizer requires only three essential ingredients: ripe plantains, creamy mozzarella cheese, and sweet guava paste. What’s more, it demands minimal prep time, making it an ideal addition to your outdoor celebration.
Once grilled to perfection, the sweet and salty flavors of this plantain delight are sure to impress your guests.
Pan De Queso (Colombian Cheese Rolls)
For those eager to explore the world of baking, this no-boil recipe offers a nut-free, gluten-free, and vegetarian cooking option that’s sure to delight. To get started, simply prepare your food processor and baking sheet, and you’ll be rewarded with an assortment of puffed, pillowy, and cheesy appetizers cleverly shaped like round cheese rolls.
Pan De Bono
Kickstart your day with a delightful appetizer that’s sure to please palates around the world. A classic cheese bread is the perfect way to begin, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create this tasty treat at home. Simply combine cassava flour, masa, queso fresco, cotija cheese, an egg, and milk to craft a dish that’s both satisfying and delectable.
Almojábanas
Step into the world of Colombian cuisine and discover a delightful treat that’s sure to tantalize your senses. For those who have already experienced the pleasures of pan de bonos and pan de quesos, Almojábanas are a must-try! Not only will you be greeted by its stunning golden brown hue, but each bite will also delight with its airy lightness and spongy texture that’s sure to leave you wanting more.
Papas Rellenas (Colombian Stuffed Potatoes)
Colombian cuisine boasts an array of delightful breakfast options and snacks, with stuffed potatoes being a particularly popular choice. When broken down mathematically, this recipe can be distilled into a simple yet effective formula: combine potatoes, beef, and aji Picante for a harmonious union of flavors. The dish’s visual appeal is matched only by its delectable taste, making it a true delight for the senses.
Furthermore, the careful deep-frying process involved adds an extra layer of complexity to this already-alluring recipe.
Perros Calientes Colombianos
Looking to shake things up in the world of hot dogs? Consider drawing inspiration from Colombian cuisine and whipping up an overloaded hot dog dish that’s equal parts familiar and adventurous. This unique combination of boiled hot dogs, coleslaw, pineapple sauce, and salsa rosado is sure to tantalize your taste buds with its bold flavors and textures.
Colombian Style Shrimp Ceviche
Experience the vibrant flavors of Latin America with this mouth-watering Colombian appetizer. A perfect blend of fresh seafood, citrus fruits, and hot sauce creates a light, refreshing, and tantalizing taste sensation that will leave you craving more. This recipe is ideal for serving 5-6 people and offers a bold, savory heat that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Empanadas Vallunas
Empanadas often combine a rich potato-beef blend, but if you’re looking for a cooking style that truly shines, consider the unique fusion of creole potatoes and shredded beef. This recipe is sure to impress when served with a tangy accompaniment, such as Colombian hot sauce or green hot sauce, paired with refreshing lime wedges.
Arepa De Choclo
For an unparalleled snacking experience, indulge in the sublime taste of Arepas de Choclo. This beloved treat is elevated to new heights when paired with rich butter, gooey melted cheese, or sweet indulgences like sweetened condensed milk and honey. Each bite is a masterclass in balancing flavors, ensuring that every day becomes a delightful one.
Pasteles de Pollo (Chicken Turnovers)
For those who yearn for a taste of Latin American flair, this recipe for chicken empanadas is an absolute must-try. Specifically, Pastel de Pollo offers a mouthwatering twist on the traditional empanada, featuring juicy chicken as its star ingredient.
While empanadas are typically associated with beef or cheese fillings, this Colombian-inspired delight takes the classic format and gives it a bold new spin.
By adding a dash of hot sauce, tangy green sauce, or creamy guacamole to the mix, you’ll be treated to an explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
Hogao (Colombian Creole Sauce)
A straightforward tomato and onion salsa can elevate your dining experience. To give it an extra boost of flavor, consider incorporating garlic, cumin, paprika, and parsley into the mix. With these added ingredients, you’ll have a savory delight ready to devour in just 10 minutes.
Fried Hormigas Culonas
Are you ready for a culinary adventure? While it may seem unusual, cooking with ants is an option worth considering. Specifically, large leaf-cutter ants can be fried and seasoned with salt to create a unique snack. The idea of indulging in crunchy, savory ants might seem daunting at first, but for those who are game, it’s definitely an experience to remember.
Unfortunately, we’ve been unable to source these ‘big-bottomed ants’ locally, so if you’re able to find some and attempt this recipe, we’d love to hear about your experience!
Chuzos De Carne
Experience the vibrant flavors of Colombia by elevating your kebabs with an unconventional twist. Instead of traditional ingredients, try using beef marinated in a medley of Latin spices, garlic, beer, and wine for a truly unique flavor profile.
For an added layer of complexity and depth, consider marinating the beef overnight to allow the bold flavors to meld together. This unexpected combination is sure to surprise and delight your taste buds.
Palitos De Queso
Step into a nostalgic culinary experience with this classic snack, reminiscent of carefree childhood moments. The simplicity of making cheese sticks belies their enduring appeal. When freshly prepared and served piping hot, there’s no wrong time of day to indulge in these tasty treats.
Arepas De Maiz
When it comes to authentic Latin American cuisine that’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require a long list of ingredients, Arepas de Maiz is an excellent choice for a tasty appetizer. The simplicity of the recipe lies in its minimal ingredient count: masarepa, water, and salt. This trifecta allows you to whip up this delightful dish in no time, making it perfect for busy nights or impromptu gatherings.
To elevate the flavor and texture, consider serving it with melted cheese, a fried egg, or even some savory chives. Whatever your preference, Arepas de Maiz is sure to please the palate.
Colombian Coconut Rice (Arroz Con Coco)
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Latin cuisine! If you’re seeking a dish that packs a punch, look no further. This delightful recipe combines the richness of coconut to elevate your weeknight meals, transforming them into unforgettable experiences.
The bottom line
If the world is your travel destination and you’re eager to taste a diverse range of cuisines, Colombia should definitely be on your radar. Even if you haven’t quite reached the stage where international travel is possible, you can still bring a taste of Colombia into your own kitchen. Why not start with these delectable Colombian appetizers that blend the country’s rich culinary heritage with South American flair?
And to give you even more inspiration, we’ve curated lists of popular Colombian meals and desserts that pair perfectly with these mouthwatering starters. With 27 delicious options to choose from, your next gathering is sure to be a flavor-filled fiesta!
