7 Must-try dishes from passionate Panama
Panama, a bridge between two continents, isn’t only known for its stunning landscapes and the iconic Panama Canal but also for its rich culinary heritage. The fusion of indigenous, Spanish, Afro-Caribbean, and other international influences has resulted in a diverse and exciting culinary scene. Here are seven of our all-time faves…
1. Sancocho
Panama’s ultimate comfort food, sancocho embodies the warmth of home-cooked meals. This hearty stew features a medley of meats including chicken, pork, and chorizo. The meats are simmered with yams, plantains, corn, and other vegetables, creating a rich and flavorful broth. Fragrant herbs and spices like cilantro and culantro add yet more layers of taste. Served with a side of fluffy rice and topped with slices of creamy avocado, sancocho is a soul-soothing experience that brings families and communities together.
2. Ropa vieja
Derived from Spanish cuisine, ropa vieja translates to "old clothes" due to its shredded appearance that resembles tattered fabric. This savory dish starts with tender beef slow-cooked with bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of aromatic spices. The beef is then shredded and further cooked in the flavorful sauce, allowing the meat to absorb all the rich flavors. Ropa vieja is often served with a side of white rice and black beans, creating a satisfying and wholesome meal that showcases Panama's mix of colonial and local influences.
3. Ceviche
Panamanian ceviche is a celebration of the country's abundant coastal resources. Fresh seafood such as fish, shrimp, or octopus is expertly marinated in zesty lime juice. The citrusy marinade "cooks" the seafood, leaving it tender and flavorful. Mixed with finely chopped red onions, cilantro, and a touch of spicy chili, the ceviche bursts with vibrant flavors and textures. Served with crispy tostones (fried plantains) or saltine crackers, it's a refreshing and tangy delight that pays homage to Panama's seaside culture.
4. Arroz con guandú
This beloved Panamanian rice dish highlights Panama’s rich diversity of indigenous ingredients. Fragrant rice is cooked with pigeon peas, a staple in Latin American cuisine, and infused with the flavors of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Often accompanied by bits of savory pork or ham is a home-cooked family favorite that represents the harmonious blending of native and international influences in Panama's cuisine.
5. Hojaldras
Hojaldras are a cherished Panamanian breakfast treat or afternoon snack. These golden-brown, deep-fried dough fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Their delicate layers and slightly sweet taste make them a delightful accompaniment to cheese or eggs – but they’re also utterly delicious enjoyed on their own.
6. Tamales
Panamanian tamales offer a unique twist on a classic Latin American dish. Banana leaves are used to envelop a mixture of masa (corn dough) and flavorful fillings such as chicken, pork, or vegetables. The tamales are then carefully steamed, allowing the fragrant aromas to meld together. As you unwrap the banana leaf, you unveil a culinary masterpiece that represents the artistry and diversity of Panama's cuisine.
7. Tres Leches Cake
Indulge your culinary journey’s sweet finale with some tres leches cake. This dessert is a moist sponge cake soaked in a luscious combination of three types of milk—condensed milk, evaporated milk, and heavy cream. The cake's sponge-like texture soaks up the milky mixture, creating a decadent and melt-in-your-mouth experience. Topped with whipped cream and sometimes garnished with fresh fruit, tres leches cake is the definition of sweet-toothed decadence.
Panamanian cuisine is a reflection of the country's vibrant culture and diverse influences. These seven dishes offer a window into the psyche of a nation that takes pride in its past while also embracing the possibilities of the future.
Eat your way around Panama with SA Expeditions. Check out this sample itinerary, then chat with a Destination Expert about crafting your own.