Latin cuisine is renowned for its incredible diversity, with a unique blend of flavors influenced by Asian, African, European, and Native American traditions. Each Latin American country has its own distinct specialties, yet there are certain condiments that are used throughout the region, setting every dish apart as a masterpiece. To showcase this culinary richness, we’ve curated a list of 35 must-try Latin foods.
From Mexico’s tantalizing tacos and salsas to the Caribbean islands’ hearty stews and succulent roasts, and from Chile’s iconic Pastel de Choclo to Puerto Rico’s flavorful rice dishes like Bistec Encebollado, this epic collection is sure to inspire your culinary journey. With so many mouthwatering options, it’s no surprise that every dish is a testament to the region’s incredible gastronomic heritage.
Mexican Rice
Mexican Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of Latin American-inspired meals. What’s more, this recipe comes together in just one pot, making it an incredibly convenient option for a weeknight dinner or special occasion alike.
While you can customize the dish to your taste by adding your favorite vegetables – such as corn kernels, onion, carrots, and peas – the classic combination is often achieved with the trifecta of cumin, chili powder, and a dash of tomato-based goodness. If you’re looking for a way to spice up your usual white rice routine, Mexican Rice offers a thrilling alternative that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates.
Galinhada
Galinhada, a mouthwatering Brazilian dish, brings together the rich flavors of chicken, saffron-infused rice, and a medley of aromatics in one harmonious pot. Traditionally crafted with succulent chicken thighs, this recipe also welcomes chicken breasts as a suitable substitute.
A symphony of spices and ingredients is then added to create an unforgettable culinary experience, including cumin, green bell pepper, onion, garlic, chicken broth, tomato paste, and an array of colorful vegetables like tomatoes and peas. With its simplicity in preparation and depth in flavor, Galinhada proves to be a delectable meal that can be effortlessly whipped up for a satisfying dinner.
Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja, a mouthwatering Spanish recipe, bursts with flavors as vibrant as its name translates to – ‘old clothes’. The dish’s unassuming appearance, resembling tattered rags on a plate, belies its rich and savory taste. This hearty meal is crafted with tender shredded beef, harmoniously combined with sautéed onions, carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, pungent garlic, briny olives, and sweet pimientos – a true delight for the senses.
Guacamole
Guacamole, a quintessential Latin culinary delight, has won the hearts of people globally. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its simplicity yet extraordinary flavor profile. This delectable dip is crafted with mashed avocados, a harmonious blend of red onions, salt, lime juice, and jalapenos. Whether serving it alongside crispy nachos or presenting it as an appetizer, Guacamole’s allure knows no bounds.
Empanada De Pino
Indulge in the rich flavors of Empanadas De Pino, a savory hand pie packed with tender beef and an array of intriguing ingredients. The addition of sweet raisins, salty olives, and creamy hard-boiled eggs creates a delightful harmony that will leave you craving more. For a satisfying accompaniment, pair your Empanadas De Pino with black beans, pinto beans, or another bean-based side dish for a well-rounded meal.
Feijoada
In the heart of Brazil, a rich culinary tradition takes center stage in the form of feijoada, a savory black bean stew that’s equal parts comforting and flavorful. This beloved dish is built upon a foundation of tender black beans, slow-cooked alongside an assortment of pork cuts, including tomatoes, crisp cabbage, and sweet carrots.
While traditional recipes often call for slow-cooked offal such as ears and trotters, modern variations have adapted to make the dish just as satisfying without these ingredients. The result is a hearty, soul-warming bowl that’s sure to become a staple in any household.
Feijoada is best enjoyed alongside an array of accompaniments, including the vibrant green of kale, crispy bacon bits, toasted cassava flour, fluffy rice, and a slice of vibrant orange for added brightness.
Tostones
Tostones, a staple in Puerto Rican cuisine, offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. This crispy and savory treat is reminiscent of French fries, with the added sweetness of ripe plantains providing a unique twist. While the natural sweetness of the plantain is mild, the salty seasoning transforms it into an irresistible snack. For added indulgence, simply dip your tostones in a tangy salsa or mojo verde for an explosion of flavors.
Arroz Chaufa
Peruvian Arroz Chaufa, a mouthwatering Latin dish, boasts an eclectic mix of ingredients including onions, green peppers, and chicken – feel free to substitute with beef, shrimp, or even hot dogs for added variety. What sets this recipe apart is its bold flavor profile, courtesy of garlic cloves, bell pepper, fried egg, fresh ginger, scallion, soy sauce, green onions, cumin, sesame oil, and agave nectar.
One of the best aspects of Arroz Chaufa is its convenience – thanks to Minute Rice, this dish can be whipped up in no time. For those who prefer, brown rice or white rice are equally suitable substitutes.
Tamales
Wrapped in the warmth of tradition and the flavors of Mexico, tamales are more than just a delicious meal option. These savory treats consist of perfectly seasoned meat encased in a fragrant corn husk, requiring a bit of effort to craft but yielding a richly rewarding experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying dinner or a satisfying snack, tamales pair exquisitely with a variety of accompaniments, such as the bold fusion of chili and corn salsa or the creamy coolness of an avocado salad.
Pao De Queijo
Indulge in the delightful Pao De Queijo, a diminutive yet flavorful bread filled to the brim with melted cheese. The traditional choice is Queijo de Minas, but feel free to experiment with parmesan, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist. When paired with a rich cup of coffee, these bite-sized morsels are sure to capture your heart and become your next culinary fixation.
Arepas
Arepas, small and tantalizing cornmeal cakes, offer a delightful culinary experience. Their versatility allows for various preparation methods, including grilling, baking, or frying, resulting in diverse flavor profiles.
The Venezuelan style boasts a thicker, more rustic approach, while the Colombian variant is characterized by its sweetness, thinness, and gooey cheese fillings. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a warm beverage like coffee or tea, arepas are sure to please.
Carne Guisada
A staple of Colombian cuisine, Carne Guisada is a bold and satisfying stew that showcases the rich flavors of tomatoes, scallions, and tender beef. The aroma of sautéed garlic, earthy cumin, and fresh cilantro wafts through the dish as it simmers in beer, infusing every bite with depth and complexity. When served alongside fluffy rice, the fall-apart texture of the beef is nothing short of sublime, making each spoonful a culinary delight.
Elote
In Mexico, the beloved street food elote is a staple that never fails to impress. This char-grilled corn on the cob is elevated by its creamy sauce and sprinkling of crumbly cotija cheese. With each bite, the flavors meld together in harmony, resulting in an irresistible snack that’s sure to satisfy any craving. The combination of textures – crunchy, cheesy, and tender – only adds to the delightfulness of this simple yet satisfying treat.
Cuban Stuffed Peppers
Imagining a flavorful fusion, Cuban Stuffed Peppers delight with their unique blend of seasoned white rice and savory picadillo. The latter, crafted with ground meat, tomato sauce, aromatic garlic, crunchy green pepper, warm cumin, sweet raisins, and earthy oregano, adds depth to the dish. As an irresistible appetizer, even those who typically shy away from vegetables will find themselves hooked on these tantalizing treats.
Brigadeiros
While chocolate truffles are enjoyed globally, they also hold a special place in Latin cuisine. A prime example of this is Brigadeiros, a delectable Brazilian treat that will leave you wanting more. With its rich blend of butter, sweetened condensed milk, and sea salt, complemented by the deep flavors of cocoa powder, it’s no wonder why these heavenly truffles are topped with sprinkles to elevate their creamy goodness even further.
Arroz Con Tres Leches
Arroz con Tres Leches, a traditional Colombian rice pudding, relies on a trifecta of milks – long-grain rice, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and whole milk – to create its signature flavor profile. The name ‘Tres Leches’ literally translates to ‘three milks’, reflecting the dish’s unique blend of creamy textures. When served, this breakfast treat is elevated by a sprinkle of sea salt and cinnamon, adding a touch of warmth and depth to each bite.
Romeu E Julieta
In a culinary tale of love and passion, the harmony between flavors in this Brazilian Romeo and Juliet recipe is nothing short of divine. The synergy between the creamy, salty cheese and the sweet, luscious guava paste creates a match made in heaven that will captivate taste buds and leave a lasting impression. This delightful dessert or appetizer is sure to win over even the most discerning palates.
Churros
Deep-fried to a crispy perfection, Churros are typically coated with a sweet blend of sugar and cinnamon. But what truly elevates this Latin classic is the indulgent experience of dipping it into rich, creamy chocolate sauce. The versatility of Churros also allows for creative flavor combinations, such as purple yam or strawberry, offering something new to try.
Pacoca
In the world of Latin desserts, Pacoca – also known as Brazilian peanut candy – stands out as a beloved classic. Its unique texture, soft and crumbly in nature, is achieved by combining just three simple ingredients: sugar, crushed peanuts, and salt. While its ease of preparation might lead one to assume it’s nothing special, the end result is truly phenomenal.
Tres Leches Cake
Indulge in the simplicity of Tres Leches Cake, a delightful dessert that requires minimal effort to yield maximum satisfaction. This creamy delight begins with a light and airy sponge cake, carefully poked to create the perfect canvas for its signature milky trio: rich condensed milk, velvety heavy cream, and subtle evaporated milk. Savor each bite of this heavenly treat alongside your preferred cup of coffee or tea, allowing the textures and flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.
Ceviche
A refreshing and flavorful seafood option, ceviche is a dish that boasts fresh raw fish cured in lemon or lime juice. This tangy delight can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments, including brown rice for a filling meal, or paired with crunchy tortilla chips for a satisfying snack. For those looking to mix things up, consider substituting the traditional ground beef with ceviche in a taco salad shell, adding a burst of citrus flavor and texture to this classic dish.
Pastel De Choclo
A culinary gem that embodies the essence of Latin American cuisine is Pastel de Choclo, a hearty beef and corn casserole that never fails to satisfy. With its rich flavors and comforting warmth, it’s no surprise this dish has earned the nickname ‘Chilean shepherd’s pie’. A true comfort food staple, Pastel de Choclo is perfect for cozying up with family and friends over a satisfying dinner.
Pernil
Slow-cooked to perfection, Pernil, also known as Puerto Rican roast pork, is a mouthwatering delight that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The key lies in the aromatic marinade, infused with garlic, oregano, and adobo, which tenderizes the meat while adding depth of flavor. As the roast pork simmers away, the skin becomes beautifully caramelized, creating a satisfying textural contrast.
Whether you’re hosting a family get-together or an intimate dinner party, Pernil is sure to impress with its rich, savory goodness.
Picadillo
A culinary gem, picadillo is a richly aromatic ground beef stew that combines the sweetness of raisins with the brininess of olives. This effortless dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or can be easily scaled up to impress guests at parties. What’s more, its versatility knows no bounds – it can be used as a filling for bell peppers, empanadas, burritos, tacos, enchiladas, and many other creative applications.
Bistec Encebollado
Puerto Rican cuisine has a way of warming hearts and bellies with its comforting dishes, and Bistec Encebollado is no exception. This beloved recipe starts by marinating flank steak in a flavorful mixture of sautéed onions, tangy vinegar, and aromatic sofrito, which then gets slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce that’s simply irresistible. Whether served with a side of fluffy rice, creamy black beans, or crispy tostones, this hearty dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Barbacoa
Pork roast, the star ingredient of barbacoa, undergoes a slow-cooking process that tenderizes its fibers to perfection. What truly sets this traditional Mexican dish apart, however, is its masterful blend of aromatics, including pungent garlic, earthy cumin, and smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
This flavorful combination lends itself beautifully to a variety of applications, making barbacoa an excellent choice for wrapping up burritos, serving as a taco filling, or even adding a rich, savory element to fresh salads.
Chile Verde
For those who crave bold flavors, Chile Verde is a dish that truly delivers. This mouthwatering concoction features tender pork chunks slow-cooked in a vibrant sauce crafted from tomatillos and salsa verde, infusing every bite with an irresistible zest.
When served alongside a steaming plate of rice, Chile Verde becomes a satisfying and authentic Mexican meal perfect for both lunch and dinner.
Birria Tacos
Indulge in the unbridled flavor of Birria Tacos, where tender meat meets a medley of savory elements. This hearty, slow-cooked recipe is elevated by a trifecta of textures: the fall-apart beef or goat, the pungency of onion and cilantro, and the brightness of freshly squeezed lime juice. Whether you’re hosting a Taco Tuesday gathering or simply seeking a comforting meal, Birria Tacos are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Baja Fish Taco
Indulge in the delightful combination of Baja Fish Tacos, where tender tortilla shells are filled to the brim with crispy beer-battered white fish, perfectly balanced by the tangy zip of pico de gallo and the rich creaminess of chipotle mayo. Each mouthwatering bite is a masterclass in flavor harmony, yet remains as refreshing as a summer breeze, making it an ideal choice for a warm-weather meal.
Albondigas
Rich and flavorful, Albondigas is a beloved Latin-inspired soup that warms the hearts and bellies of people of all ages. At its core, this delectable dish features succulent meatballs bursting with aromatic herbs and tender rice, slowly simmered in a vibrant tomato broth alongside an abundance of fresh vegetables. A true crowd-pleaser, Albondigas is sure to satisfy both adults and children alike with its comforting, satisfying flavors.
Tacos Gobernador
Tacos Gobernador, also affectionately referred to as Governor’s Tacos, represents a cutting-edge interpretation of Latin cuisine. This delectable dish is bursting with flavor, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in butter, tender tomatoes, caramelized onions, vibrant bell peppers, and a generous helping of melted cheese. The harmonious union of these ingredients culminates in a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to delight any palate, making it an ideal choice for a wide range of occasions.
Fajitas
Indulge in the flavors of Fajitas, a mouthwatering dish featuring tender marinated flank steak, served atop crispy tortillas with a medley of vibrant vegetables. This satisfying meal is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, as it’s not only delicious but also remarkably filling.
Habichuelas Guisadas
In the world of Puerto Rican cuisine, Habichuelas Guisadas – or stewed beans – is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to experience the rich flavors and comforting warmth that this Caribbean culture has to offer. At its core, the dish is defined by the combination of sazon, sofrito, and adobo, which work together in perfect harmony to create a culinary masterpiece. And when served over a bed of fluffy rice, the hearty beans become nothing short of comfort food at its finest.
Chuletas Fritas
Indulge in the savory goodness of Chuleta Frita, a quintessential Puerto Rican dish that boasts tender, juicy pork chops wrapped in a crispy exterior and bursting with flavor. This mouthwatering treat is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a convenient option for a quick and easy family dinner.
The versatility of this recipe shines through as you can pair it with an array of sides, including rice, potatoes, pasta, fresh vegetables, or a crisp salad, making it an excellent choice for any meal occasion.
Mechada
Mechada, a delectable Latin-inspired dish, boasts an impressive blend of flavors thanks to its shredded beef filling. Its versatility is truly remarkable, as it can be effortlessly paired with a variety of other Latin favorites. For instance, you can combine it with a hearty serving of rice and beans for a satisfying meal. Alternatively, Mechada pairs beautifully with arepas, pastelitos, or empanadas, making it an excellent addition to any Latin-inspired gathering.
The bottom line
While Latin America is renowned for its stunning tropical scenery, outstanding sports teams, and vibrant music, it’s the region’s delectable cuisine that truly sets tongues wagging. From spicy dishes to sweet treats, Latin American food is a fusion of flavors that will leave you craving more. To satisfy your cravings without stepping foot in the continent, we’ve curated 35 mouth-watering recipes of must-try Latin foods.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a culinary adventure, these easy-to-make dishes are sure to transport you to the heart of Latin America.
