Chile is a country located in South America, popular for its geographical diversity, ranging from the world’s driest desert in the north to glaciers in the south.
Without a doubt, other things that define this country are its rich culture, its friendly and welcoming people, and of course, its internationally award-winning gastronomy and wines.
At Cooperating Volunteers, we collaborate on different projects (English teaching program, agriculture program, and construction program), and that is why today we will tell you about some of the most popular dishes, so that if you choose Chile as your destination to live your volunteer experience, you can enjoy them and get to know them a little better.
Chilean cuisine is very varied and delicious, and the use of fresh fish and seafood stands out above all.
These are some of the popular dishes of this country:
CEVICHE
This traditional dish is similar to a pie with a corn puree base filled with minced meat, onion, hard-boiled egg, olives, and raisins (some versions also include chicken, turkey, or pork) that is baked until the crust is golden brown and crispy. It is served hot and is usually accompanied by a fresh salad or pebre (a Chilean salsa made with tomato, onion, cilantro, and chili pepper).
This dish is very tasty and comforting, ideal for sharing at family gatherings or special events.
PASTEL DE CHOCLO
This traditional dish is similar to a pie with a base of corn puree filled with minced meat, onion, hard-boiled egg, olives, and raisins (some versions also contain chicken, turkey, or pork) that is baked until the topping is golden and crispy. It is served hot and usually accompanied by a fresh salad or pebre (a Chilean sauce made with tomato, onion, cilantro, and chili).
This dish is very tasty and comforting, ideal for sharing at family gatherings or special events.
ASADO DE TIRA
This delicacy is popular because it makes your mouth water.
It is prepared with strips of beef, especially the rib section, which is marinated in a mixture of spices and then cooked slowly on the grill or in the oven until tender and juicy.
The marinade usually includes ingredients such as garlic, onion, chili pepper, cumin, oregano, and sometimes red wine. This gives the meat a unique flavor. It is also usually accompanied by fresh salads, boiled or roasted potatoes, and a good Chilean wine to complete the culinary experience.
This dish is popular at barbecues and family celebrations in Chile.
EMPANADAS
These are dough pies filled with different ingredients such as meat, chicken, seafood, or cheese, among many others. They are eaten both fried and baked.
We find the Pino empanadas that are filled with minced meat, onion, raisins, hard-boiled egg, olives, and spices such as cumin and pepper. Also the cheese empanadas that are usually filled with melted cheese and sometimes with peppers and onion. Seafood empanadas that are filled with a mixture of shrimp, clams, mussels, and octopus, all cooked in a spicy sauce or cream base. Shrimp empanadas that are filled with cooked and seasoned shrimp, often mixed with cheese and onion.
And of course, many other options.
CAZUELA
Cazuela, one of the most emblematic dishes, is a thick soup that contains meat, usually chicken or beef, potatoes, squash (pumpkin), choclo (corn), onion, and other vegetables. It is cooked over low heat so that the flavors blend well. It is seasoned with herbs such as oregano, parsley, and cilantro and served hot.
This dish is especially eaten during the colder months and is known for being nutritious, comforting, and very tasty. It is usually accompanied by rice or bread.
CURANTO
This dish is typical of the southern region, such as Chiloé and the lake area, and consists of seafood, meats, and potatoes steamed in a hole in the ground covered with nalca leaves to conserve heat and flavors.
The typical curanto ingredients include clams, choritos (mussels), machas (giant clams), chicken, pork, longaniza (sausage), chapalele (a kind of cooked potato dough), and milcao (another potato dough and cochayuyo).
This dish is a unique culinary experience that reflects the richness of Chile’s ingredients and gastronomic culture.
COMPLETO
Essentially, it consists of a larger hot dog with a variety of toppings including avocado, tomato, mayonnaise, and sauerkraut. It is a cooked sausage placed in a soft bun.
It is found in local fast food street stalls and at sporting or social events. It is usually served with French fries and a soft drink.
There are many more dishes that you can enjoy during your volunteer experience in Chile.
Knowing another culture and its gastronomy is always an unforgettable experience.