A Beginner’s Guide to Latin American Street Food

Street food is an integral part of the culture and daily life in Latin America. From the bustling markets of Mexico City to the colorful street stalls of Lima, there’s no shortage of delicious, affordable, and diverse options to choose from.

But for those who are new to the region, navigating the vast array of street food options can be overwhelming. What should you try? What should you avoid? How do you know if the food is safe to eat?

In this beginner’s guide to Latin American street food, we’ll explore the unique and tasty offerings of the region, give you some tips on what to try, and provide some basic guidelines on how to stay safe while enjoying all that street food has to offer.

First, let’s take a look at some of the most popular and iconic street foods you’ll find throughout Latin America:

1. Tacos: Tacos are perhaps the most well-known and beloved street food in Latin America. Whether you’re in Mexico, Central America, or the Andes, you’ll find a variety of tasty taco options to choose from. From the classic al pastor (marinated pork) to the spicy suadero (braised beef) to the vegetarian-friendly nopal (cactus), there’s a taco for every palate.
2. Empanadas: Empanadas are another popular street food throughout Latin America. These delicious pastries are typically filled with a variety of savory fillings, such as beef, chicken, or cheese, and then deep-fried or baked until golden brown. Empanadas are a great snack on the go, and you’ll find them sold at street stalls and markets throughout the region.
3. Arepas: Arepas are a staple of Colombian and Venezuelan cuisine, and they’re a popular street food throughout Latin America. These cornmeal patties are grilled or fried and served with a variety of fillings, such as cheese, shredded beef, or avocado. They make for a satisfying and filling snack or meal.
4. Ceviche: Ceviche is a popular seafood dish that originated in Peru, but it’s now enjoyed throughout Latin America. It’s typically made with raw fish or shellfish that’s been marinated in citrus juice and spices, and then served with a variety of toppings, such as onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Ceviche is a refreshing and flavorful option for those who love seafood.
5. Churros: Churros are a beloved street food throughout Latin America. These long, fried doughnuts are typically dusted with sugar and served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce. They make for a delicious and indulgent treat, and you’ll find them sold at street stalls and markets throughout the region.

Now that you have an idea of some of the most popular street foods in Latin America, let’s talk about what to consider when trying street food for the first time:

1. Look for busy stalls and vendors: One of the best ways to ensure that you’re getting fresh and safe street food is to look for stalls and vendors that are busy. These are likely to have a high turnover, which means that the food is being prepared and served more quickly, reducing the risk of foodborne illness.
2. Choose cooked foods over raw: Raw foods, such as raw meats and vegetables, can be more risky when it comes to foodborne illness. If you’re trying street food for the first time, it’s a good idea to stick with cooked options, such as grilled meats or cooked vegetables.
3. Ask locals for recommendations: If you’re not sure what to try, ask locals for recommendations. They can point you in the direction of the best street food stalls and give you some ideas on what to try. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous and try new things, but also listen to your gut – if something looks or smells questionable, it’s probably best to pass.

4. Drink bottled water and avoid ice: To reduce the risk of getting sick, it’s a good idea to stick with bottled water and avoid drinks with ice. If you do opt for a refreshing juice or smoothie, make sure it’s made with purified water.
5. Use common sense: Trust your instincts and use common sense when it comes to street food. If a stall or vendor looks dirty or the food looks questionable, it’s probably best to avoid it.

Before we wrap up this guide to Latin American street food, it’s worth mentioning a few specific street food delicacies that you might encounter in different parts of the region. These might not be as widespread as the options we’ve already mentioned, but they’re definitely worth seeking out if you have the chance:

1. Anticuchos: Anticuchos are a popular street food in Peru, particularly in the capital city of Lima. They’re made with skewered, marinated beef heart that’s grilled over an open flame, and they’re typically served with a variety of dipping sauces and spices.
2. Churros con dulce: Churros with sweetened condensed milk are a popular street food in many parts of Latin America, but they’re especially popular in Mexico and Central America. These indulgent treats are made by deep-frying a churro dough and then filling it with a rich, sweet condensed milk filling.
3. Elotes: Elotes are a popular street food throughout Mexico and the southwestern United States. They’re made by grilling corn on the cob and then slathering it with a variety of toppings, such as mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
4. Tostones: Tostones are a popular street food in many parts of Latin America, but they’re especially popular in the Caribbean. They’re made by slicing green plantains into thin rounds, frying them until they’re crispy and golden, and then flattening them with a press before frying them again. Tostones are typically served with a variety of dipping sauces.
5. Patacones: Patacones are a popular street food in many parts of Latin America, particularly in Colombia and Ecuador. They’re made by frying green plantains until they’re crispy and golden, and then smashing them flat with a press before frying them again. Patacones are typically served with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, avocado, or shredded meat.

It’s also worth noting that street food culture varies significantly from country to country within Latin America. For example, in Mexico, street food is often sold from carts or stands that are set up in specific locations and are open at specific times of day. In contrast, in countries like Peru and Colombia, street food is often sold from permanent stalls or kiosks that are open all day.

In addition to the different types of street food you’ll find in different countries, you’ll also encounter a wide range of flavors and ingredients. For example, in Mexico, you’ll find a wide range of spicy and flavorful street food options, such as tacos al pastor and elotes, as well as sweet treats like churros and paletas (fruit popsicles). In contrast, in countries like Peru and Colombia, you’ll find a wide range of seafood options, such as ceviche and tiraditos (thinly sliced raw fish), as well as grilled meats and stews.

It’s also worth noting that street food culture is constantly evolving and changing in Latin America. New trends and flavors are constantly emerging, and it’s not uncommon for street food vendors to innovate and come up with new and creative dishes. So whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a beginner, there’s always something new and exciting to try when it comes to street food in Latin America.

One final thing to note about street food in Latin America is that it can be a great way to support local small businesses and contribute to the local economy. Street food vendors are often small, independent operators who rely on their sales to make a living, and by choosing to eat street food, you can directly support their businesses and contribute to the local community.

Street food is also a great way to experience the local culture and learn about the daily lives of people in Latin America. Many street food vendors have been in business for generations, and they often have a wealth of knowledge and stories to share about the local culture and history. By chatting with them and trying their food, you can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region.

It’s also worth noting that street food in Latin America can be a great way to try new and unique flavors that you might not find in traditional restaurants. Many street food vendors specialize in dishes that are specific to their local region or community, and they often use ingredients and cooking techniques that are unique to the area. This can be a great opportunity to try something new and expand your culinary horizons.

In addition to the wide range of flavors and ingredients, you’ll find in Latin American street food, you’ll also encounter a variety of different cooking methods. Some street food dishes, such as tacos and empanadas, are cooked over an open flame or on a grill, while others, such as ceviche and tiraditos, are prepared using raw ingredients that are marinated or cured.

Street food can also be a great way to eat on a budget while traveling in Latin America. Many street food dishes are sold at affordable prices, and they can be a convenient and affordable way to fuel up while you’re on the go. Just be sure to use common sense and choose vendors and stalls that look clean and well-maintained to ensure that you’re getting the best and safest street food experience possible.

In conclusion, Latin American street food is a delicious and diverse way to experience the region’s unique flavors and culinary traditions. From tacos and empanadas to ceviche and churros, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Just be sure to use common sense, choose cooked foods over raw, and ask locals for recommendations to ensure that you’re getting the best and safest street food experience possible. And don’t forget to support local small businesses and experience the local culture by opting for street food when you can. Happy eating!