Ecuador, a magical country blessed with diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers a culinary experience that is as varied as its geography, a delicious fusion of indigenous and Spanish influences.
From hearty soups to savory stews and ceviches, there's something to satisfy every palate. In this post, we'll explore some of the most iconic dishes that you must try in your visit to Quito Ecuador.
Encebollado, a traditional Ecuadorian fish soup that is beloved by locals and visitors alike. This flavorful dish is made with a variety of tuna, and is simmered in a rich broth of red onions, yuca, and spices.
Encebollado has its roots in the coastal regions of Ecuador, where it was originally prepared by fishermen. Over time, the dish has evolved and spread throughout the country, being one of the favorite dishes in every region. Today, it is a popular breakfast and lunch option, especially on weekends and its a must for locals when having a hangover.
Viche, a traditional soup from the coastal province of Manabí. It's a thick and flavorful soup that typically includes a variety of ingredients such as fish, shrimp, green and sweet plantains, yucca, corn, and peanuts.
Viche is not just a meal, it's a colorful experience. The combination of flavors and textures is truly unique, and the soup's hearty nature makes it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you're a seafood lover or simply looking to try something new, Viche is definitely worth a try in your Quito Ecuador food list.
Hornado, a traditional dish from the Andean highlands, it consists of a whole pig commonly marinated in garlic and pepper, slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender and juicy.
Hornado is typically served with a variety of side dishes, including llapingachos (potato pancakes that are fried until crispy), mote (hominy), yuca and ají.
Ceviche jipijapa, a unique variation of the traditional ceviche from the coastal province of Manabí in Ecuador. What´s the difference? The addition of a creamy peanut sauce that elevates the flavors to new heights.
To prepare ceviche Jipijapa, the seafood is marinated in a mixture of citrus juices and spices. The peanut sauce is then added to the mixture, coating the seafood. The dish is served chilled, often accompanied by chifles (fried green plantains).
Maito, a traditional dish from the Amazonian region of Ecuador. It's a simple yet delicious dish that showcases the region's fresh ingredients and unique cooking techniques.
The primary ingredient in maito is typically fish, such as tilapia or catfish. However, other ingredients like yucca, plantains, or pork can also be used. All elements are wrapped in bijao leaves, a large, sturdy leaf that is commonly found in the Amazon. This leaf adds a subtle flavor to the dish, while the cooking method helps to retain the natural juices and flavors of the ingredients. Maito is a healthy and delicious option, and it's a great way to experience the culinary traditions of the Amazon. If you have the chance to visit the Amazon region of Ecuador, be sure to try this unique and flavorful dish.
Make sure you try this 5 gems and you´ll see that Ecuadorian cuisine is a must! By sampling these five dishes, you'll not only satisfy your hunger but also gain a deeper appreciation for the country's rich cultural heritage.
