Bandeja Paisa and Colombian Food
July 9, 2020
When talking about Colombian food, your mind will always go to one dish: the “bandeja paisa”. It's no surprise, since it is one of the most iconic and popular dishes in Colombian cuisine.
What is a bandeja paisa?
It's a typical dish from Antioquia and the Coffee Region. The meal is known for its abundance, both in the variety of ingredients and in the amount of food. It reflects the region's warm hospitality and welcoming values.
The bandeja paisa is full of flavor and very high in protein. It usually includes red beans, rice, ground beef, chicharrón (fried pork belly), a fried egg, sweet plantains, chorizo, avocado and an arepa. Many believe it was meant for field workers, giving them a full day's worth of energy.
Its origins combine the many cultures that shaped Colombia over the centuries: indigenous peoples, Spanish settlers and Africans. Its current form is relatively recent, and today it is considered the country's national dish.
At El Balcón de las Américas, Colombian food is our passion, and the bandeja paisa could not be left out. Stop by and taste why it's the most representative dish of Colombia.