Latin food brings a burst of flavor to your table. It mixes tasty ingredients and bold spices from many countries.

You can find recipes for all kinds of dishes, from quick snacks to fancy meals.

These 25 Latin food recipes will help you make yummy dishes at home. They include classics like guacamole and rice pudding.

You’ll also find less known treats like Chilean beef empanadas. With these recipes, you can enjoy Latin flavors any time you want.

1. Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo is a tasty Latin dish that combines chicken and rice. You’ll love this flavorful meal that’s easy to make at home.

Start by browning chicken pieces in a large skillet. Then, cook onions, peppers, and garlic to create a aromatic base.

Add rice to the pan and let it toast for a few minutes. Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, then nestle the chicken back into the mix.

Cover and simmer until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. The result is a colorful, one-pot meal that’s sure to please your family.

2. Tacos al Pastor

Tacos al pastor are a flavorful Mexican dish you can make at home. To start, marinate pork in a blend of chiles, spices, and pineapple juice. This gives the meat its signature taste.

Grill pineapple slices until they’re slightly charred. Chop them into small pieces to add a sweet contrast to the savory pork.

Cook the marinated pork on a hot grill or skillet. Slice it thinly and serve in warm corn tortillas.

Top with the grilled pineapple, diced onion, and fresh cilantro.

For extra authenticity, add a splash of lime juice. Serve your tacos al pastor immediately for the best taste and texture.

3. Empanadas Argentinas

Empanadas Argentinas are tasty hand-held pies filled with savory ingredients. You can make these delicious treats at home with a few simple steps.

Start by preparing a sturdy dough using flour, water, and butter. For the filling, cook ground beef with onions, spices like paprika and cumin, and a dash of hot pepper for kick.

Add some chopped hard-boiled eggs and olives to the meat mixture for authentic flavor.

Stuff the dough circles with the filling and seal the edges.

You can bake or fry the empanadas until golden brown. Serve them hot with chimichurri sauce for dipping.

These versatile snacks work great for any meal or party.

4. Feijoada

Feijoada is Brazil’s national dish. This hearty black bean stew combines pork, beef, and beans for a flavorful meal.

To make feijoada, soak black beans overnight. Cook them with various meats like pork ribs, sausages, and beef.

Add onions, garlic, and bay leaves for extra flavor. Simmer the stew for 2-3 hours until the beans are soft and the meats are tender.

Serve feijoada with rice, collard greens, and orange slices. Some people also enjoy farofa (toasted manioc flour) as a side dish.

You can adjust the recipe to your taste by adding or removing meats. For a quicker version, use canned beans and pre-cooked meats.

5. Cuban Ropa Vieja

Cuban Ropa Vieja is a tasty shredded beef dish. You can make it easily at home.

Start by cooking beef until tender. Shred the meat with forks.

Sauté onions, peppers, and garlic in oil. Add tomato sauce, spices, and the shredded beef.

Let everything simmer together. The flavors will blend nicely.

You can serve Ropa Vieja over rice. It goes well with black beans and plantains too.

This dish is popular in Cuba and beyond. You’ll love its rich, savory taste.

6. Chiles en Nogada

Chiles en Nogada is a famous Mexican dish that combines sweet and savory flavors. You’ll stuff poblano peppers with a mixture of ground meat, fruits, and spices.

The filling usually includes ground pork or beef, onions, garlic, and fruits like apples and peaches. Cinnamon and sugar add a touch of sweetness.

After stuffing the peppers, you’ll cover them with a creamy walnut sauce called nogada.

This sauce is made by blending walnuts, cheese, milk, and cream.

To finish, sprinkle pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley on top. This gives the dish its distinctive red, white, and green colors – matching the Mexican flag.

7. Pupusas

Pupusas are El Salvador’s beloved street food. These tasty treats are made from masa harina, a type of corn flour. You can fill them with cheese, beans, or meat.

To make pupusas, mix masa harina with water to form a dough. Shape the dough into small balls and flatten them. Add your chosen filling and seal the edges.

Cook the pupusas on a hot griddle for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Serve them hot with curtido (a tangy cabbage slaw) and salsa roja.

Pupusas are easy to make at home. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy this delicious Salvadoran dish anytime.

8. Pão de Queijo

Pão de Queijo is a beloved Brazilian cheese bread. You’ll love these small, round rolls with a crispy exterior and chewy center.

To make them, you’ll need tapioca flour, cheese, eggs, milk, and oil. Mix these ingredients to form a dough.

Shape the dough into small balls and bake them in a preheated oven. The cheese melts inside, creating a gooey texture.

These gluten-free treats are perfect for breakfast or as a snack. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature.

Try different types of cheese to vary the flavor. Parmesan and queso fresco work well in this recipe.

9. Ajiaco

Ajiaco is a hearty stew popular in Cuba and Colombia. This dish combines tender meat with a variety of vegetables for a comforting meal.

In the Cuban version, you’ll find beef, pork, corn, and root vegetables like sweet potatoes. The meat is cooked first, then set aside while the vegetables simmer in the broth.

Colombian ajiaco features chicken, potatoes, and corn. You’ll add herbs like cilantro and guascas for flavor. The potatoes cook down to thicken the soup naturally.

Both versions are served hot, often with toppings like avocado or cream. Ajiaco is perfect for cool days or when you want a filling, flavorful meal.

10. Arepas

Arepas are a tasty South American staple made from corn flour. You can easily make them at home with a few simple ingredients.

Mix corn flour, water, and salt to form a dough. Shape the dough into small, flat discs about 3/8 inch thick.

Cook the arepas in a skillet over medium heat. Fry them for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.

You can stuff arepas with cheese, meat, or beans for a filling meal. They’re great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Try different variations by adding cheese to the dough or topping with avocado. Arepas are versatile and sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

11. Moqueca Baiana

Moqueca Baiana is a delicious Brazilian seafood stew that will transport you to the coastal regions of Brazil. This dish combines firm white fish like snapper or cod with a creamy coconut sauce.

To make Moqueca Baiana, you’ll need tomatoes, peppers, and onions for the base. The sauce gets its rich flavor from coconut milk and dendê oil, a traditional Brazilian ingredient.

Add a splash of lime juice for a fresh, tangy taste. You can also include shrimp to make it even more flavorful. Serve your Moqueca Baiana over rice or with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

This colorful stew is easy to prepare and perfect for a family dinner or gathering with friends. You’ll love the blend of bright flavors and creamy textures in this authentic Brazilian dish.

12. Ceviche Peruano

Ceviche Peruano is a classic Peruvian dish that’s perfect for hot days. You’ll love this refreshing seafood recipe.

To make it, cut fresh fish into small cubes. Mix with lime juice, sliced red onions, and chili peppers. Let it marinate for a short time.

Serve your ceviche with sweet potato slices and corn on the side. Add some cilantro and a sprinkle of toasted corn kernels on top for extra crunch.

This dish is easy to make and tastes great. The lime juice “cooks” the fish, giving it a unique texture. Try it for a taste of Peru’s food culture.

13. Sancocho

Sancocho is a hearty Latin American stew that’s perfect for cold days. You’ll find different versions across the Caribbean and South America.

To make sancocho, start by browning your choice of meats – beef, pork, chicken, or a mix. Add them to a large pot with onions, garlic, and spices.

Next, toss in root vegetables like potatoes, yuca, and plantains. Corn on the cob is also a common addition.

Cover everything with broth and let it simmer until the meat is tender and the veggies are cooked through.

The result is a rich, flavorful stew that’s filling and comforting. Serve your sancocho hot with rice on the side for a satisfying meal.

14. Ranchos Huevos

Ranchos huevos is a hearty Mexican breakfast dish. It means “rancher’s eggs” in English.

You’ll love this flavorful meal to start your day. It features fried eggs on crispy corn tortillas.

The eggs are then topped with a spicy tomato salsa. Refried beans often come on the side.

To make it, fry corn tortillas until crisp. Cook eggs sunny-side up. Prepare a zesty tomato salsa.

Layer the tortillas, eggs, and salsa on a plate. Add warm refried beans if you like. Enjoy this filling breakfast that will keep you energized all morning.

15. Tamales

Tamales are a beloved Latin American dish made with masa dough and various fillings. You can find many regional variations across Mexico and beyond.

To make tamales, you’ll need corn husks or banana leaves for wrapping. The masa dough is made from corn flour, lard, and broth.

Popular fillings include shredded chicken, pork, or beef with salsa. Vegetarian options like cheese and roasted peppers are also tasty choices.

The filled and wrapped tamales are then steamed until the dough is firm.

Tamales take time to prepare but are perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. You can make a big batch and freeze some for later enjoyment.

16. Migas de Pastor

Migas de Pastor is a traditional Spanish dish that’s quick and easy to make. You’ll need stale bread, garlic, olive oil, and prosciutto or ham.

Start by heating olive oil in a skillet over low heat. Add minced garlic and diced prosciutto, cooking until the garlic turns golden.

Next, crumble the stale bread into the pan. Fry until the breadcrumbs are crispy and golden brown. Stir in some paprika for extra flavor.

Finally, sprinkle in chopped parsley and let it cook for a few more minutes. Serve your Migas de Pastor hot as a side dish or light meal.

17. Chimichurri Steak

Chimichurri steak is a tasty Latin dish that pairs juicy beef with a zesty herb sauce. To make it, you’ll need skirt or flank steak and a simple chimichurri sauce.

Season your steak with salt and pepper. Grill it for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing.

For the sauce, mix chopped parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and olive oil. Add red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Serve the sliced steak topped with a spoonful of chimichurri sauce. This dish goes well with grilled vegetables or crispy fries on the side.

18. Gallo Pinto

Gallo Pinto is a beloved dish in Costa Rica and Nicaragua. It combines rice and beans with peppers and onions for a tasty meal.

You can enjoy this versatile dish any time of day. It works well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

To make Gallo Pinto, start with leftover rice and beans. Cook them together with diced bell peppers and onions. Add some spices for extra flavor.

Serve your Gallo Pinto with fried or scrambled eggs for a classic breakfast. You can also pair it with other sides like fried plantains or fresh salsa.

This simple yet satisfying recipe is a great way to use up leftovers. It’s quick to prepare and provides a filling meal on its own or as a side dish.

19. Mole Poblano

Mole poblano is a rich, complex sauce from Mexico. It combines chocolate, chili peppers, and many spices. You can make this sauce at home with some effort and time.

To start, toast various seeds and spices in a skillet. Fry tortillas and bread until crisp. Blend these ingredients with chicken broth to form a paste.

Next, cook the paste with more broth, stirring often. Add melted chocolate and sugar near the end.

The sauce should be thick and coat the back of a spoon.

Serve mole poblano over chicken or turkey. It’s a special dish often made for celebrations. The flavors are deep and unique, mixing sweet, spicy, and savory notes.

20. Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa is a hearty Colombian dish that will fill you up. You’ll find a variety of foods on one plate.

The main parts are rice, beans, and meat. You’ll usually see grilled steak, fried pork belly, and chorizo sausage.

An egg, often fried, sits on top. Sliced avocado and fried plantains add color and flavor.

To round it out, you’ll get a small arepa, a corn cake. This meal is perfect when you’re really hungry.

21. Picadillo

Picadillo is a tasty Latin American dish made with ground beef. You’ll love its rich flavors and simple preparation.

To make picadillo, brown ground beef in a large skillet.

Add diced onions and garlic for extra flavor.

Next, stir in diced tomatoes, potatoes, and carrots.

Season with cumin, oregano, and salt to taste.

Let the mixture simmer until the vegetables are tender.

Some recipes include raisins and olives for a sweet and salty twist.

Serve your picadillo over rice or use it as a filling for tacos.

It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

22. Tostones

Tostones are a popular Latin American dish made from green plantains. To make them, you peel and slice the plantains into thick rounds. Then fry them in oil until they start to soften.

Next, flatten each slice using a tostonera or the bottom of a glass.

Fry the flattened pieces again until they’re crispy and golden brown.

Sprinkle salt on your tostones and serve them hot.

They make a great side dish or snack. You can dip them in garlic sauce or mayo-ketchup for extra flavor.

Tostones are easy to make at home with just plantains, oil, and salt.

They’re a tasty way to enjoy the unique flavor of green plantains.

23. Horchatada Ice Cream

Horchatada ice cream blends the flavors of traditional horchata into a creamy frozen treat. To make it, steep rice, cinnamon, and almonds in milk or cream. Strain the mixture and combine it with sugar and egg yolks.

Heat the mixture gently while stirring until it thickens.

Add vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Chill the base thoroughly before churning in an ice cream maker.

For a twist, try adding a splash of RumChata liqueur to the base. This gives the ice cream a boozy kick.

You can also experiment with toppings like crushed cinnamon cookies or a drizzle of dulce de leche.

24. Cerveza Enchilada

Cerveza Enchilada is a spicy Mexican beer cocktail. You can make it by adding hot sauce, lime juice, and spices to your favorite lager or pilsner.

To prepare, rim a chilled glass with salt and chili powder.

Pour in your beer, then add a splash of hot sauce, a squeeze of lime, and a pinch of chili powder.

Stir gently to combine the flavors.

The result is a zesty, refreshing drink with a kick. It pairs well with tacos, nachos, or other spicy foods.

You can adjust the heat level by using more or less hot sauce. Some recipes also include a dash of Worcestershire sauce or tomato juice for extra flavor.

25. Pozole Rojo

Pozole rojo is a hearty Mexican soup that will warm you up on chilly days. This dish combines tender pork, hominy, and a rich red broth made from dried chiles.

To make pozole rojo, simmer pork with garlic, onion, and bay leaves until tender.

Blend soaked ancho and guajillo chiles to create the signature red sauce.

Add the chile sauce and hominy to the pork broth.

Let everything simmer together to develop deep flavors.

Serve your pozole rojo in large bowls.

Top it with shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, diced onions, and lime wedges. You can also add avocado and cilantro for extra flavor. Enjoy this comforting Mexican classic with family and friends.

Traditional Ingredients

Latin American cuisine relies on a variety of flavorful ingredients that form the backbone of many dishes. These components bring rich tastes and textures to recipes passed down through generations.

Staple Grains And Vegetables

Rice and corn are essential grains in Latin American cooking. You’ll find rice in dishes like arroz con pollo and as a side for many meals. Corn appears as tortillas, tamales, and in stews.

Beans are another key ingredient, often paired with rice. Black beans, pinto beans, and red beans are common varieties.

Plantains, both green and ripe, feature in many recipes. You can fry them or use them in soups and stews.

Yuca, also known as cassava, is a starchy root vegetable used in various ways. It can be boiled, fried, or mashed.

Essential Spices And Herbs

Cumin is a widely used spice in Latin American cooking. It adds earthy flavor to meats, beans, and rice dishes.

Cilantro brings fresh, vibrant taste to salsas, guacamoles, and soups. You’ll often see it sprinkled on top of dishes as a garnish.

Chili peppers come in many varieties and heat levels. They’re used fresh, dried, or ground into powders.

Oregano is common in Mexican and Puerto Rican cuisines. It adds a savory note to meat dishes and sauces.

Garlic and onions form the flavor base of many Latin American recipes. They’re often sautéed together as a starting point for soups and stews.

Cooking Techniques

Latin American cuisine uses several key cooking methods to create its vibrant flavors. These techniques bring out the best in local ingredients and help build layers of taste. Let’s explore some common approaches used in Latin kitchens.

Grilling And Roasting

Grilling gives Latin foods a smoky flavor. You can grill meats, vegetables, and even fruits. To grill, brush food with oil and cook over hot coals or a gas flame. Turn items to cook evenly on all sides. Popular grilled dishes include:

• Carne asada (grilled beef) • Pollo a la brasa (roasted chicken) • Elotes (grilled corn on the cob)

Roasting uses dry heat in an oven. This method caramelizes the outside of foods while keeping the inside moist. Try roasting:

• Chiles for salsas • Pork for carnitas • Root vegetables like yuca or sweet potatoes

Stewing And Simmering

Stewing cooks food slowly in liquid. This makes tough cuts of meat tender. Stews often include:

• Meat • Vegetables • Spices • Broth or sauce

Popular Latin stews are pozole and sancocho. These hearty dishes feed many people.

Simmering uses gentle heat to cook food in liquid. The liquid barely bubbles. This method is great for:

• Beans • Rice • Soups

Simmering helps flavors blend together. It’s key for making flavorful stocks and broths too.

The Influence Of Regional Cultures

Latin American cuisine reflects diverse regional influences. Local ingredients and traditions shape unique flavors across different areas.

Mexican Cuisine Influences

Mexican food varies greatly by region. In the north, you’ll find flour tortillas and beef dishes. The Pacific coast offers seafood-based meals. Central Mexico is known for mole sauces and corn-based dishes.

Oaxaca is famous for its seven moles, each with distinct flavors. Yucatan cuisine uses achiote and citrus in many dishes. The Gulf region features spicy seafood stews.

Popular Mexican dishes include:

• Tacos al pastor
• Chiles en nogada
• Cochinita pibil

These regional specialties showcase local ingredients and cooking methods. You can taste the history and culture in each bite.

Caribbean Culinary Traditions

Caribbean food blends African, European, and indigenous influences. Each island has its own unique flavors and specialties.

Cuban cuisine features rice, beans, and pork dishes. Meanwhile, Puerto Rican food is known for sofrito, a flavorful cooking base.

Dominican cooking uses plantains in many forms.

Signature Caribbean dishes include:

• Jamaican jerk chicken
• Cuban ropa vieja
• Puerto Rican mofongo

Tropical fruits and seafood are common ingredients across the region. You’ll find coconut, mango, and fresh fish in many meals.

Spices like allspice and scotch bonnet peppers add heat and flavor to Caribbean dishes. These bold tastes reflect the vibrant cultures of the islands.