Panama, a country known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant culinary scene, offers a diverse array of dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From hearty stews to crispy street food, Panamanian cuisine is all about bold flavors and generous portions. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these 18 mouthwatering Panama foods recipes have got you covered. From classic Sancocho to decadent Chicheme, we’ve rounded up the best of the best to bring a taste of Panama right to your kitchen.
Panamanian Sancocho
Sancocho is a hearty and flavorful stew that’s a staple in Panamanian cuisine. This recipe combines tender meat, root vegetables, and fragrant spices to create a comforting and nourishing dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large yuca, peeled and sliced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes, yuca, carrot, and celery to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Carimañolas
A traditional Latin American treat, Carimañolas are crispy, cheese-filled empanadas that will satisfy your snack cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup grated Cheddar cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
4. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
6. Roll out each piece into a thin circle.
7. Place 1 tablespoon of grated cheese in the center of each circle.
8. Fold the dough over the cheese to form a half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Fry empanadas in hot oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
11. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hojaldres
Hojaldres are traditional Spanish doughnuts that are typically enjoyed during special occasions like Easter or Christmas. These sweet treats are made with a simple batter, deep-fried to perfection, and then coated in sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the milk to form a smooth batter.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
6. Using a spoon, drop small balls of dough into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Remove the hojaldres from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust the warm hojaldres with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, including rising time.
Ropa Vieja Panameña
A classic Panamanian dish, Ropa Vieja is a tender beef stew wrapped in a rich tomato-based sauce, served with rice and beans. This recipe yields a flavorful and comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef brisket or shank, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Cooked rice and beans for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef in batches, then set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the tomato sauce, broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the browned beef to the pot, cover, and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Serve with cooked rice and beans.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Tamales Panameños
A classic Panamanian dish, Tamales Panameños are a staple of the country’s cuisine. These tamales are made with tender corn dough filled with spicy chicken and wrapped in banana leaves for a unique flavor and aroma.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of masa harina
– 1/2 cup of lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped
– 1 pound of cooked chicken, shredded
– Salt to taste
– Banana leaves for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Combine masa harina and lard or shortening in a bowl until crumbly.
2. Gradually add chicken broth and mix until dough forms.
3. Add chopped onion, jalapeño pepper, and cooked chicken. Mix well.
4. Wrap 1/4 cup of the dough mixture in a banana leaf, folding the sides and rolling to form a tamale.
5. Steam tamales for 45-60 minutes or cook them in boiling water for 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Arroz con Pollo Panameño
Experience the rich flavors of Panamá with this classic Arroz con Pollo recipe, which combines succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice. This hearty dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Patacones
Patacones are a popular street food in Colombia, and for good reason – they’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and utterly addictive. This simple recipe will have you enjoying this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 green plantains
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chili flakes, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1-inch rounds.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
3. Fry the plantain slices in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove the patacones from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings while still warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes total
Tortilla Changa
Tortilla Changa Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, Tortilla Changa is a delicious and easy-to-make Mexican dish that combines crispy tortillas with savory fillings.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the meat is browned and onions are translucent.
3. Add the taco seasoning and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the Changa by filling each tortilla with refried beans, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
6. Top with cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bistec Picado
This traditional Mexican dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason – the tender shredded beef, crispy tortillas, and savory seasonings make for a flavorful and satisfying meal. With this recipe, you’ll be able to recreate this beloved dish with ease.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or flank steak
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic, oregano, and cumin.
2. Cook the beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.
4. Shred the beef with two forks and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded beef onto warmed tortillas, followed by your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Pescado Frito con Patacones
Pescado Frito con Patacones is a popular Ecuadorian dish that combines the crispy, golden edges of fried fish with the creamy, sweet flavors of fried plantains. This recipe brings together two beloved ingredients for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 pieces of firm white fish (such as tilapia or cod), cut into strips
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 3-4 ripe plantains
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Dip fish strips into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry fish in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove fish from oil and set aside to drain on paper towels.
5. Peel plantains and slice into 1/2-inch rounds.
6. Fry plantain slices in hot oil until crispy and golden, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Serve fried fish with patacones (fried plantains) and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Guacho de Mariscos
This Ecuadorian seafood stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Guacho de Mariscos, which translates to “seafood gumbo,” is a beloved recipe in many coastal towns of Ecuador.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, squid)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender (5 minutes).
3. Add seafood, diced tomatoes, fish broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicheme
Chicheme is a popular Latin American snack made with toasted corn nuts, flavorful spices, and a hint of sweetness. This recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this addictive treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corn nuts
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– Optional: chili powder, garlic powder, or other spices to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together cumin, paprika, salt, and sugar.
3. Add the corn nuts to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the corn nut mixture in an even layer.
5. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the corn nuts and toss until they are well-coated.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the corn nuts are toasted and fragrant.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
8. Once cooled, coat the corn nuts with granulated sugar by tossing them in a bowl with the sugar until evenly coated.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Arroz con Guandú
Arroz con Guandú is a traditional Latin American dish that combines the flavors of rice, beans, and meat. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 pound dried guandú beans (or substitute with kidney or black beans)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound cooked beef or pork, diced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5-7 minutes).
3. Add cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Add guandú beans, beef or pork, and rice to the pot. Stir well.
5. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and hearty Arroz con Guandú!
Empanadas de Carne
This Argentinean classic is a savory pastry filled with tender beef and onions, perfect for a comforting snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground beef
+ 1 medium onion, finely chopped
+ 1 egg, beaten
+ 1 tablespoon olive oil
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add shortening and warm water, kneading until dough forms.
3. Divide dough into 8-10 equal pieces.
4. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into disk shape.
5. Place about 1 tablespoon of beef mixture in center of each disk.
6. Fold pastry over filling to form half-moon shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Brush tops with olive oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sopa de Pescado
This traditional Mexican fish soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With its rich broth, tender fish, and vegetables, Sopa de Pescado is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish fillets (such as tilapia, cod, or mahi-mahi), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium tomato, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups fish broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, tomato, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender (5-7 minutes).
3. Add fish, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in fish broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes or until fish is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Panama-Style Ceviche
Experience the vibrant flavors of Panama with this refreshing ceviche recipe, perfect for a light and delicious appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh white fish (such as tilapia or mahi-mahi), cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish pieces and lime juice. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
2. Just before serving, stir in red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (with marinating time)
Enjoy your delicious Panama-Style Ceviche!
Bollos Panameños
Bollos Panameños are a classic Panamanian dessert that combines the sweetness of sugar and spices with the comforting warmth of bread pudding. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional dish, perfect for anyone looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chorizo Panameño
Chorizo Panameño is a popular Panamanian sausage dish that combines the flavors of chorizo, onions, and spices. This recipe makes for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hoagie rolls or crusty bread
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve the chorizo mixture on hoagie rolls or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious flavors of Panama with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From hearty stews like Panamanian Sancocho to crispy street foods like Patacones, there’s something for every occasion. Explore the rich culinary heritage of this Central American country with traditional dishes like Ropa Vieja Panameña and Tamales Panameños. Or try innovative twists on classic recipes like Arroz con Pollo Panameño or Panama-Style Ceviche. Whether you’re a foodie, a traveler, or simply looking to spice up your cooking routine, these recipes are sure to delight!
