Hello my fellow foodies! My name is Maria and I am thrilled to take you on a culinary journey through the most iconic dishes of South America - from Peru to Argentina. As a passionate food lover, I have traveled to many countries in South America and I have tasted various cuisines that I can’t wait to share with you.

So fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a delicious adventure!

The Ceviche of Peru 🐟🍋

Let’s begin our journey by exploring one of the most famous dishes in South America, the Ceviche of Peru. This dish is made of fresh raw fish - usually seabass or tilapia - and marinated in citrus juice, specifically lime juice, and spices like chili peppers, onions, and coriander. The result is a mouth-watering dish that is both tangy and spicy, and perfectly suited for the hot climate of Peru.

But what truly elevates the Ceviche is the Leche de Tigre (tiger’s milk), which is the leftover marinade juice that is mixed with lime juice, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. This sauce is often served as a side dish to the Ceviche and is believed to have some aphrodisiac properties.

A close-up shot of a colorful ceviche plate

The Empanadas of Colombia 🇨🇴🥟

Next on our list is a savory treat that is a staple in Colombian cuisine, the Empanada. These crispy turnovers are made with a cornmeal dough and filled with a variety of ingredients like meat, chicken, potato, cheese, and even chorizo. The Empanadas are then deep-fried until golden brown and served with different types of sauces like hogao, a tomato-based sauce, or ají, a spicy salsa.

What makes the Empanadas of Colombia unique is the dough, which is thinner than the one made in other South American countries. The result is a lighter and more delicate crust that perfectly complements the hearty fillings.

A plate of crispy, golden brown Empanadas with different fillings

The Feijoada of Brazil 🇧🇷🍲

Now, let’s travel to Brazil and indulge in their national dish, the Feijoada. This hearty stew is typically made with black beans, pork, sausage, and beef, and cooked with a variety of spices like garlic, onions, and cumin. The dish is usually served with white rice, farofa, a toasted manioc flour, and orange slices that help cut through the richness of the stew.

The Feijoada of Brazil is usually served on weekends, and it’s a social event that brings family and friends together. The dish is believed to have been created by the slaves who used the least desirable cuts of meat, like pork ears and tails, to create a flavorful meal that has become a symbol of Brazilian cuisine.

A colorful, delicious bowl filled with Feijoada stew perfectly served with white rice, farofa and orange slices

The Asado of Argentina 🇦🇷🥩

Last but not least, we have Argentina’s signature dish, the Asado. This mouth-watering beef BBQ is a cultural institution in Argentina and is usually served on special occasions like birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings.

The Asado consists of different cuts of beef - ribs, steak, and sausage - that are grilled over a wood fire and served with chimichurri sauce, a mix of herbs like parsley, garlic, and oregano, blended with oil and vinegar. The Asado is not just a dish, it’s a whole experience. It’s a time to gather with friends, savor delicious food, and enjoy the Southern Cone lifestyle.

A sizzling, juicy Asado plate with grilled beef cuts and chimichurri sauce

¡Bon appetit! 🍴

That’s it for our journey through the most iconic dishes of South America. I hope you enjoyed our culinary adventure and that you got a taste of the rich and diverse South American cuisine.

Remember, these dishes are just a few examples of the many delicious delights that South America has to offer. So, if you ever have the chance to visit these countries, make sure to try the local cuisine and explore for yourself.

Until next time, happy eating!