Eat like a Local: 6 Traditional Colombian Breakfast Dishes
Colombians are used to having a proper breakfast every morning. The kind of breakfast depends widely on the region, weather, and culture. You won’t see any decadent almond croissants or eggs benedicts, but instead local ingredients full of flavor and tradition. *We work with and recommend booking flights with www.kiwi.com
*Starting the planning of your dream Colombian vacation? Then be sure to check out our complete range of day tours and private transportation options, available throughout Colombia!
6 of the most traditional Colombian breakfast dishes:
#1. Arepas
Arepas are a national dish in Colombia. It’s eaten all over the country. It’s similar to a crunchy corn cake and can be topped with countless ingredients. Colombian’s favorite topping? Cheese! They also add avocado, “hogao” a simple tomato and green onion sauce that cooks on low heat to let the flavors blend while the vegetables swim in their own juices. The taste can be soft and cheesy but also crispy or sweet as there are many varieties of Arepas in a traditional Colombian breakfast. The most popular ones are from Medellin, arepas paisas, or Arepa con huevo which is a deep-fried arepa with an egg inside, the go-to food for northern Colombians.
*Interested in the many different fruits available throughout Colombia? Then be sure to view our article on 8 of the Most Exotic Colombian Fruits
#2. Calentao’
Basically, leftovers reheated for breakfast. Calentao’ literally means “heated” but nowadays is one of the most popular and delicious Colombian breakfasts, and is even served in restaurants. It usually comes with a large bowl of rice, some type of beans, eggs, or other available protein, salad, and also arepas! Colombians make sure to start the day with a little extra energy.
#3. Tamales
This dish is originally from Venezuela but nowadays it’s a national dish. Tamales are wrapped in a green plantain leaf and on the inside there’s usually up to 3 kinds of meat mixed with a doughy variety of cornflour and vegetables. Tolima is a popular region for Tamal lovers as the tastiest ones seem to come from that region of the country.
*Contact us through our get a quote page, to receive a free personalized itinerary including all your chosen tours and experiences!
#4. Changua
Changua is a comforting breakfast soup made with poached eggs, milk, green onions, and coriander. Because it’s served really hot, changua is especially popular in cold Colombian weather like in Bogotá or Pasto. A very warm start to the day!
Changua
*Looking for traditional dishes in Colombia? Then be sure to read our article on the 15 traditional Colombian dishes you’ll find in the Colombia Coffee Region
#5. Caldo de Costilla
The national hangover dish, this rib broth is prepared by boiling beef ribs with carrots, potato slices, garlic, onion, and cilantro leaves, making a hearty and warming soup. People often eat this traditional Colombian dish with arepas or bread.
Source: Una colombiana en california
#6. Chocolate con pan
In English hot chocolate with bread is what most Colombians have for breakfast every day. Hot chocolate in Colombia comes in bars ready to boil with milk or water until getting a thick and creamy beverage. If you want to experience this Colombian breakfast like a local, once you have it served, try adding some cheese and soak the bread in it. While you’re drinking it, the cheese will melt and you’ll have a salty yet delicious surprise in your very last sip.
Interested in a day tour or private transportation during your Colombian holiday? Then check out our Affiliates page to book your experience at the best price.
Like to create or customize a fantastico package tour of Colombia? Then contact us through the Get a Quote Page for Free Tour Videos, a Free Itinerary Creation, and an Obligation Free Quote!