Table of Contents
Panama Cuisine
Sancocho de Gallina
A hearty chicken soup considered a national dish, made with chicken, yucca, corn, and a variety of root vegetables. It's seasoned with culantro (similar to cilantro) for a unique flavor. 1)
Ropa Vieja
Shredded beef cooked with tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, often served with rice and beans. This dish showcases Spanish influences. 2)
Carimañolas
Fried yucca dough filled with ground meat or cheese, often served as a breakfast item or snack. 3)
Tamales Panameños
Corn dough filled with seasoned meat (usually chicken or pork), wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed. They are similar to tamales found in other Latin American countries but with distinct local flavors. 4)
Patacones
Green plantains sliced, fried, smashed, and then fried again until crispy. They are often served as a side dish or snack, sometimes with a dipping sauce. 5)
Arroz con Guandú
Rice cooked with pigeon peas and often flavored with coconut milk. This dish is especially popular during the Christmas season. 6)
Chicheme
A traditional drink made from corn, milk, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It can be served hot or cold and is both a beverage and a dessert. 7)
Ceviche
Fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice with onions, bell peppers, and cilantro. Panamanian ceviche is typically made with corvina (sea bass). 8)
Chicharrón
Deep-fried pork rinds, seasoned and served as a crunchy snack or appetizer. 9)
Bollos
Corn dough wrapped in corn husks and boiled. They can be plain or filled with meat or cheese. 10)
Hoja de Bijao
Fish or meat wrapped in bijao (a type of leaf similar to banana leaves) and steamed or grilled. This method of cooking infuses the food with a unique, earthy flavor. 11)
Hojaldres
Fried bread or dough, often served for breakfast with cheese or meat. 12)
Guacho de Mariscos
A thick seafood stew made with rice and a variety of shellfish and fish. It’s similar to a risotto but with a distinctly Panamanian twist. 13)
Pargo Frito
Whole red snapper, seasoned and deep-fried, typically served with patacones and salad. 14)
Bienmesabe
A rich dessert made from coconut milk, sugar, and egg yolks, often flavored with cinnamon and vanilla. It’s a sweet and creamy treat enjoyed on special occasions. 15)