Gastronomy has the power to change the course of every trip, transforming a simple visit into an unforgettable experience. In the heart of South America lies a country that not only stands out for its impressive mega-biodiversity, but also for its culinary richness: Ecuador.
From the Pacific coast to the snow-capped peaks of the Andes, passing through the Amazon jungle and the Galapagos Islands, each region offers flavours and aromas capable of surprising every palate. On the coast, for example, dishes such as rice with stew and meat, seco, sausage; green preparations such as bolón, tigrillo and patacones; and, of course, a wide variety of seafood, shrimp, crab and fresh fish prevail.
In contrast, in the highlands, the cuisine is based mainly on pork, beef and chicken, with a notable influence from Spanish cuisine. In the Amazon, the cuisine is the most ancestral, with ingredients such as yucca, freshwater fish, chicken and chontacuros, a larva found in the fallen palms of the chonta tree, which can be eaten roasted, cooked or fried. Finally, the cuisine in the Galapagos is very diverse, with a range of recipes using mainly ingredients from the sea.As for the dishes that the traveller cannot miss once at the destination, the encebollado, a fish soup with yucca and coriander; the ceviche, marinated fish with lemon and chilli; the chaulafán, fried rice with meat and vegetables in oriental style; the fritada, crispy pork with mote and chilli; the tamales and humitas, wrapped in corn and stuffed with fillings; and
The food of the gods tastes of cocoa
Ecuador is world renowned for being the cradle of cocoa domestication, with its fine aromatic cocoa being one of the best in the world. Since pre-Columbian times, cocoa has been revered as a gift from the gods and, today, Ecuadorian chocolate continues to be one of the country’s gastronomic jewels. Made using artisanal and sustainable techniques, Ecuadorian chocolate is characterised by its intense and complex flavour. Visitors can explore chocolate factories and cocoa plantations, where they will learn about the process of cultivation, harvesting and elaboration of this exquisite product.
A journey back in time through the country’s coffee shops
In Ecuador, traditional coffee shops are more than just places to enjoy a hot drink; they are centres of history and culture. These establishments, many of them decades old, offer a welcoming atmosphere where the aroma of freshly ground coffee blends with Ecuadorian hospitality. Here, visitors can savour a cup of coffee grown in the fertile volcanic soils of the Andes or the lush lands of the Amazon, famous for its unparalleled quality and flavour. Each sip is an invitation to discover the country’s rich coffee tradition with varieties from different regions that can be tasted in coffee shops all over the country.
The traditional bizcochos of Cayambe
A short distance from the capital, in the town of Cayambe, bizcochos are the local pride and joy. These delicious rolls, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, are baked according to recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. The bizcochos de Cayambe, accompanied with leaf cheese and a glass of sweet coffee or hot chocolate, are a treat not to be missed. A tribute to tradition and the dedication of the artisans who keep this culinary heritage alive.fanesca, a thick soup of beans and cod typical of Easter.