Here are the top 10 must-try foods in Chile, showcasing the country’s rich culinary heritage and diverse flavors:
Empanadas
One of Chile's most iconic dishes, empanadas are pastry pockets filled with various ingredients like beef, onions, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and raisins. Empanada de pino (filled with minced beef) is the most common, making it a must-try snack or meal.
Pastel de Choclo
A traditional Chilean dish made from a savory corn pie, pastel de choclo features a layer of ground meat, onions, and chicken, topped with a sweet corn mixture and baked until golden. It’s a perfect example of Chilean comfort food.
Ceviche
A popular dish along the Chilean coast, ceviche consists of fresh fish (usually sea bass or flounder) marinated in citrus juices, often accompanied by onions, cilantro, and chili. It’s a refreshing and tangy dish, especially in coastal cities like Valparaíso.
Asado
Chilean barbecues, or asados, are a celebration of grilled meats, typically including beef, lamb, and sausages. It’s a social event in Chile, often enjoyed with family and friends, and served with a variety of side dishes like ensaladas (salads) and papas mayo (potato salad).
Completo
A Chilean version of a hot dog, completo is typically topped with mayonnaise, avocado, sauerkraut, and tomatoes. It’s a fast food staple in Chile and comes in several variations, such as completo italiano (with avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise).
Mote con Huesillo
A popular Chilean drink, mote con huesillo is a sweet concoction made with dried peaches (huesillos) and a sweetened barley-based drink (mote). Often enjoyed as a refreshing dessert or snack, especially during summer.
Curanto
A traditional dish from the island of Chiloé, curanto is a hearty meal made by steaming seafood, meats, potatoes, and vegetables in a pit covered with hot stones. It’s a unique cooking method that captures the essence of Chile’s coastal and indigenous influences.
Paila Marina
A rich and flavorful seafood stew, paila marina is made with a mix of clams, mussels, shrimp, fish, and sometimes crab, all cooked together in a savory broth with vegetables and herbs. It’s a delicious representation of Chile's thriving seafood culture.
Chilean Sea Bass (Merluza)
Chile is known for its fresh and high-quality seafood, and merluza (Chilean sea bass) is a must-try. It’s often grilled or prepared in a variety of ways, offering tender, flavorful fish that's both light and rich.
Chilean Wine
While not a food per se, Chilean wine is an essential part of the country’s culinary experience. Chile is one of the world’s top wine producers, and you should try the famous Carménère, along with other varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.
These dishes are a true reflection of Chile’s diverse food culture, offering a blend of fresh ingredients, traditional methods, and bold flavors that are sure to delight any food lover.