WHAT TO EAT IN PANAMA

 

Panama may not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of Latin American Foody destinations but you will be surprised at the culinary prowess of this small Central American country. Panamanians have long appreciated the country’s abundance of scrumptious, must-try dishes and beverages and now travelers are finally catching on, too. Whether you’re exploring pulsating Panama City or heading straight for a tropical beach retreat, here are some of the best Panama dishes you won’t want to miss on your Panama vacation.

 

Panama Snack Bar

 

Sancocho

When in search of traditional food in Panama, it doesn’t get more iconic than the country’s national dish: Sancocho. Broth, vegetables, chicken, and a side of rice are a few of the key ingredients in this typical Panamanian soup, but it’s the abundant use of local cilantro spice that reigns supreme. Not to be confused with cilantro, culantro boasts a stronger smell and flavor with slightly sweet undertones. Sancocho is best enjoyed after a night of overindulgence; locals claim the healing soup to be the ultimate hangover cure. If anyone asks you “What is the national dish of Panama?” you now know the answer.

 

Sancocho

Carimañola

 

Travel through Panama, and you’ll quickly discover that fried food reigns supreme throughout the region. Embrace the tasty culinary tradition and hope to burn off those extra calories later with all the Panama sightseeing you’ll be doing. Of the many delectable, deep-fried options in Panama, Carimañola is perhaps one of the most popular. Small, handmade yucca balls are stuffed with ground meat or cheese before heading to the frier for golden, crispy perfection. 

 

Carimañola

Guacho

“What do they eat in Panama?” you might be asking yourself. Well, begin your culinary exploration of Panama cuisine with a hearty bowl of Guacho (pronounced Wah-cho.) Similar in style to a risotto, Guacho is a slightly soupy rice dish filled with regional vegetables, yucca, and meat or seafood. You’ll find this Panamanian specialty on the menu at most local restaurants. That said, the seafood Guacho with coconut at Maito—one for example is by far Panama City’s most scrumptious.

 

Guacho

 

Ceviche

 

While ceviche is a dish that is eaten in many Central and South American countries and does not have its origin in Panama, most Historians will tell you that it first originated in Peru, however, ceviche remains one of Panama’s most beloved seafood dishes. Here, the ceviche is typically made from Corvina, a local Sea Bass, or shrimp. It’s tangy and citrusy, ideal for a light, refreshing lunch on a hot day in the tropics. When in Panama City, make a beeline for the Mercado de Mariscos, an outdoor fish market serving up some of the freshest, most affordable ceviches in the city.

 

Panamanian Ceviche

 

Ropa Vieja

 

Of all the emblematic Panama foods to try, Ropa Vieja may very well be the most famous. Shredded beef is simmered with tomato, garlic, onion, cumin, and oregano, and then typically served with white rice and fried, smashed plantains. Legend has it that Ropa Vieja (which translates to old clothes) originated in Spain long ago when a poor man ran out of food and was therefore forced to make a stew out of old, shredded garments. You’ll find Ropa Vieja across Central and Latin America (it’s Cuba’s National Dish), but the local Panamanian version remains a tasty staple and definitive must-try food in Panama.

 

Ropa Vieja

Patacones

 

A common accompaniment to many local Panamanian dishes, Patacones are hard green plantains that have been fried, smashed, and then fried once more. They’re typically warm, salty, and slightly chewy, and are particularly mouth-watering when heaped with meat, cheese, and local sauces. For an upscale take on the hearty staple, Peach Fuzz International features Patacones with Garlic Octopus, a flavor combination that’s as exquisite as it sounds.

 

Patacones

Empanadas

 

This Latin American staple is a deep-fried snack absolutely bursting with flavor, empanadas are savory pastries stuffed with ground meat, potatoes, or cheese. There are countless hole-in-the-wall bakeries in Panama where you can get your empanada fix, but some of the best are found at Artisana, a smart cafe in the Bohemian neighborhood of El Cangrejo.

 

Empanadas

 

Chicheme

 

While sipping a beverage made of corn and milk might not sound thirst-quenching, there is nothing quite like an ice-cold cup of Chicheme on a steamy Panama day. This creamy, sweet drink is typically flavored with vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Some of the best in Panama City are found in La Chorrera, where the drink is believed to have originated. Or head to Quesos Chela, a small bakery in Capira renowned for their cheeses, empanadas, and—you guessed it—ridiculously tasty Chicheme.

 

Chicheme 

Cocadas

 

These coconut cookies are popular in many parts of Latin America, particularly in Panama. In Panama, they are made using sweetened condensed milk (instead of eggs) and topped with plenty of shredded coconut. They are oven-baked but served at room temperature giving the soft chewy texture...delicious!

 

Assorted Cocadas

Raspados

There is nothing better than a frozen treat to help cool down on unbearably hot days! And trust us, Panama definitely has those days. But rather than reaching for the stereotypical ice cream or slushie, we recommend moving out of your comfort zone to try something that will surely blow your mind. Panamanian raspados share similar traits with the traditional shaved ice you know and love… but there’s so much more to this dessert than meets the eye. Like regular shaved ice, raspados come with fruit-flavored syrup, like cherry, grape, or passion fruit. Then comes a sugary, creamy drizzle of condensed milk to add a whole new depth of flavor and texture. If you can, ask for your raspados to be served with a dollop of malt powder on top to make the delicious delicacy even richer than usual. 

 

Raspado

Please ask us here if you need more information about what to eat in Panama during your Panama vacation!