Colombia’s diversity stretches through all facets of the country. Its remarkable range is not only seen in its landscapes, climates, and animal and plant species but also in its gastronomy.
The country’s multicultural identity has helped curate many classic dishes loved by Colombians today. Christmas dinner tables across the country are a great showcase of Colombia’s culinary delights.
During the nights of Christmas, friends and family will gather in different houses to sing, pray and eat. Traditional foods may vary from region to region, but many dishes are appreciated all around the country. These snacks and meals make for a decadent and delicious Christmas feast!
Afro Colombian Chistmas Foods
Colombia has one of the biggest African diaspora populations in the Americas. Its African heritage can be seen in its arts, politics, traditions, and, not least, its cuisine. Many modern cooking techniques, like the use of herbs and spices, were derived from West Africa and adapted in Colombia.
Colombia’s Caribbean islands and coastal regions are home to rich Afro-Colombian cooking cultures. Variations of these culinary traditions can be found in African diasporas throughout the Caribbean. Here are some delicious Afro-Colombian dishes enjoyed during Christmas.
Rondón
This soupy dish is eaten in many black Caribbean countries like Jamaica and Tobago. But the Afro-Colombian islands of San Andres and Providencia have their own tasty version.
The spiced, hearty stew is made up of fish with other seafood, plantain, vegetables, and coconut milk. It is frequently enjoyed as a side dish during Christmas. Its original name, Run Down, is still used in many countries and quite literally describes the act of going down to find some vegetables to make the dish.
Arroz de Coco
Arroz de Coco is a staple of Colombian coastal cuisine. African diasporic communities throughout the Caribbean have their own coconut rice dishes, and Colombia is no different. This version is a delicious blend of seasoned white rice and caramelized shreds of coconut.
Although you can find the side dish in most restaurants along the coast all year round, it’s also enjoyed during Christmas time. It pairs well with some fish or any type of seafood and can be found in restaurants in Cartegena, Santa Marta, and Rincon Del Mar.
Tamales
This Mesoamerican snack is quintessentially Colombia, dating back to 7000 BCE. Incredibly it’s still an essential part of Central and South American cuisines. However, in Colombia, they are more traditionally eaten at Christmas time.
Aztecs left the world the delicious gift of Tamales, but Colombians make it their own by adding pork, carrots, and peas. Every holiday season, families get together for Tamaleada. Everyone contributes to the ingredients and helps to make tamales. This tradition is practiced across the country. However, it’s most popular in Tolima, the Cauca Valley, Santander, Antioquía, and Bogotá.
Buñuelos
This fried snack is usually enjoyed throughout the nights of the Novena, a time during December when Colombians hold evening gatherings to pray and eat.
These small balls of flour and cheese are absolutely delicious when made fresh. However, you can find them in most supermarkets. Buñuelos are frequently enjoyed with hot chocolate or by themselves with a sprinkle of sugar.
Lechona
Lechona is the main meat dish and centerpiece of the Christmas table in most Colombian households. The dish, originating in Tolima, is pork stuffed with peas, rice, and potatoes and slow-cooked in a brick oven for 10 to 12 hours.
Starting off as a whole pig, the meat doused in dark beer for flavor, then seasoned with cumin, sazon, garlic and onions.
Sancocho
Sancocho is a thick, flavorful soup slow cooked with an assortment of meats like chicken, pork ribs, and ox tail. Although recipes vary from region to region, the dish typically contains plantain, potato, and cassava.
Colombians eat the tasty dish all year round. However, it’s especially enjoyed at Christmas as a starter or side dish. Families may also eat the dish throughout the day as a snack. Don’t worry if you aren’t lucky enough to get invited to a local’s house for some Sancocho. You can also find the popular dish at restaurants across the country.
Natilla
This sweet, custard-like treat is Colombia’s most traditional Christmas dessert. Natilla is mainly made of milk and eggs but also includes aromatic festive staples like cinnamon and nutmeg.
It’s enjoyed throughout the holiday period, with many households having their own special recipes. Coconut shavings, raisins, and aguardiente are all mouth-watering additions.
Arroz Con Leche
Unlike Natilla, Arroz Con Leche is eaten throughout the year. The sweet and milky dessert is one of Colombia’s most famous delicacies.
It’s essentially rice pudding but with a Colombian twist. With cinnamon, vanilla, and lashings of condensed milk, it makes for an indulgent festive treat. It can be bought as a snack at Christmas markets across the country, but it’s also super easy to make at home!
Try these Delicious Colombian Christmas Foods
Christmas day meals offer an opportunity for people to slow down and connect with friends and family. With an exquisite variety of flavors and textures, no Christmas dinner table would be complete without these tasty dishes.
You can experience Colombia’s traditional Christmas foods at restaurants throughout the country during December!
