Are you ready to explore the rich and diverse world of Chilean cuisine? In this article, we bring you the best Chilean recipes to tantalize your taste buds with the delectable flavors of this South American gem. Chilean dishes are a delightful fusion of indigenous, European, and other cultural influences, creating a culinary landscape that is truly unique. From hearty stews to scrumptious desserts, these 12 dishes will transport you straight to Chile, and trust us, you won’t want to miss out. So, let’s dive in and discover these must-try Chilean recipes!
#1. Pastel de Choclo – Chilean Corn Pie (650 calories per serving)
Welcome to the world of Pastel de Choclo, a classic Chilean comfort food that is sure to warm your heart and soul. This savory corn pie is a true celebration of flavors, with a succulent meat filling layered beneath a golden-brown corn crust. Ideal for family gatherings, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cornmeal
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pitted black olives
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Recipe:
- In a blender, combine corn kernels and milk, and blend until smooth. Transfer to a large saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Stir in cornmeal and cook for 5 more minutes. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until translucent. Add ground beef, chicken, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook until meat is browned. Stir in raisins and olives, and remove from heat.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish, spread the meat mixture evenly. Arrange hard-boiled egg slices on top. Pour the corn mixture over the meat layer, spreading it evenly to cover.
- Sprinkle sugar and drizzle vegetable oil over the top of the corn mixture. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Garnish with chopped basil and serve warm.
#2. Empanadas de Pino – Chilean Beef Empanadas (450 calories per serving)
A quintessential Chilean street food, Empanadas de Pino are delicious pastry pockets filled with a savory mixture of beef, onions, raisins, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. These flavorful treats are perfect for parties, picnics, or just a casual snack on the go.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup pitted black olives, chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1 egg yolk, beaten with 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)
Recipe:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add beaten eggs, cold water, and vinegar, and mix until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onions over medium heat until the meat is browned. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, and continue to cook for 5 more minutes. Remove from heat and stir in raisins, olives, and chopped hard-boiled eggs.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the chilled dough into 12 equal portions. On a floured surface, roll out each portion into a 6-inch (15 cm) circle. Place a heaping tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough in half to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges using a fork or by folding the dough over itself.
- Arrange empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow the empanadas to cool slightly before serving.
#3. Cazuela – Chilean Meat and Vegetable Stew (400 calories per serving)
Cazuela is a nourishing and satisfying Chilean stew that showcases the country’s bountiful produce. With tender meat, an array of vegetables, and a fragrant broth, this one-pot wonder is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef or chicken, cut into 4 pieces
- 8 cups water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 medium potatoes, halved
- 4 carrots, sliced
- 2 ears corn, cut into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup chopped pumpkin or squash
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Recipe:
- In a large pot, combine meat, water, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 1 hour (for beef) or 30 minutes (for chicken).
- Add potatoes, carrots, corn, green beans, and pumpkin or squash to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Serve the stew in bowls, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.
#4. Porotos Granados – Chilean Bean and Pumpkin Stew (350 calories per serving)
Porotos Granados is a mouthwatering vegetarian stew that pays tribute to Chile’s agricultural heritage. With a blend of creamy beans, tender pumpkin, and sweet corn, this dish is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups dried cranberry beans, soaked overnight
- 6 cups water
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups peeled and cubed pumpkin or squash
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Recipe:
- Drain the soaked beans and place them in a large pot with 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
- Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the onion mixture, cubed pumpkin or squash, and corn to the pot with the beans. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and the stew has thickened.
- Stir in chopped fresh basil and serve the stew warm, accompanied by crusty bread or rice.
#5. Churrasco – Chilean Grilled Beef Sandwich (600 calories per serving)
Churrasco is the ultimate Chilean street food, featuring juicy grilled beef served on a soft bun with an assortment of mouthwatering toppings. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or just a casual weeknight meal, this sandwich is a true taste of Chile.
Ingredients:
- 4 thin beef steaks (such as sirloin or flank), about 6 oz (170 g) each
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sandwich rolls or burger buns
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
Recipe:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. Grill the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Allow the steaks to rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with sliced tomatoes, avocado, sauerkraut, and shredded lettuce. Top with grilled beef slices and the remaining half of the bun. Serve immediately.
#6. Charquicán – Chilean Vegetable and Meat Hash (450 calories per serving)
Charquicán is a rustic and hearty Chilean dish that combines tender meat with a medley of colorful vegetables. This versatile meal can be adapted to include your favorite seasonal ingredients, making it a delicious way to enjoy the bounty of your local farmer’s market.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef or chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups peeled and cubed potatoes
- 2 cups peeled and cubed pumpkin or squash
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Recipe:
- In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add meat, salt, and pepper, and cook until the meat is browned.
- Stir in potatoes, pumpkin or squash, green beans, corn, and cabbage. Cover and cook over low heat for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Serve the hash warm, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro.
#7. Pebre – Chilean Salsa (30 calories per serving)
Pebre is a vibrant and zesty Chilean salsa that adds a burst of flavor to any dish. Made with fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and a kick of spicy pepper, this versatile condiment is the perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, sandwiches, or a simple bowl of rice.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 jalapeño or serrano pepper, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Recipe:
- In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, jalapeño or serrano pepper, and minced garlic.
- Stir in red wine vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and let the salsa rest in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled as a condiment or side dish.
#8. Sopaipillas – Chilean Pumpkin Fritters (200 calories per serving)
Sopaipillas are delightful Chilean fritters made with a pumpkin-infused dough that is deep-fried to golden perfection. These tasty treats can be enjoyed sweet or savory, making them a versatile and crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin or squash
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp warm water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Recipe:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in mashed pumpkin and melted butter, then gradually add warm water to form a soft dough.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth. Roll the dough to a thickness of about 1/4-inch (0.5 cm). Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut out 3-inch (7.5 cm) circles.
- In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Carefully lower the sopaipillas into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until puffed and golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve sopaipillas warm, either plain or topped with your choice of sweet or savory toppings.
#9. Caldillo de Congrio – Chilean Conger Eel Soup (300 calories per serving)
Caldillo de Congrio is a flavorful and comforting Chilean seafood soup made with succulent conger eel, potatoes, and a fragrant broth. This delicacy, inspired by the country’s bountiful coastline, is sure to delight seafood lovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb conger eel, cut into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 cup white wine
- 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and halved
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Recipe:
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until soft and fragrant.
- Add conger eel pieces and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in white wine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate.
- Stir in fish or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Add potatoes, reduce heat, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro just before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or rice.
#10. Leche Asada – Chilean Baked Milk Custard (300 calories per serving)
Leche Asada is a delightful Chilean dessert that combines the creamy goodness of custard with the caramelized sweetness of flan. This baked milk dessert is the perfect way to end a meal, leaving your taste buds singing with joy.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
Recipe:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium saucepan, combine milk and 1 cup sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually whisk in the milk mixture until well combined.
- In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it melts and turns golden brown. Pour the caramel into a 9-inch (23 cm) round baking dish, swirling to coat the bottom evenly.
- Pour the custard mixture over the caramel in the baking dish. Place the baking dish into a larger, deep pan and fill the outer pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the baking dish. This creates a water bath to ensure even cooking.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove the baking dish from the water bath and let it cool to room temperature. Refrigerate the custard for at least 2 hours before serving.
#11. Chacarero – Chilean Steak Sandwich (500 calories per serving)
The Chacarero is a scrumptious Chilean sandwich featuring tender grilled steak, fresh tomatoes, spicy green beans, and creamy avocado. This satisfying and flavorful creation is perfect for lunch or a casual dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 thin beef steaks (such as sirloin or flank), about 6 oz (170 g) each
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sandwich rolls or burger buns
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup cooked green beans, cut into 2-inch (5 cm) pieces
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Recipe:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season the steaks with salt and pepper on both sides. Grill the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Allow the steaks to rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly.
- To assemble the sandwiches, spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Layer with sliced tomatoes, avocado, cooked green beans, and grilled beef slices. Top with the remaining half of the bun and serve immediately.
#12. Pan Amasado – Chilean Homemade Bread (200 calories per serving)
Pan Amasado is a soft and pillowy Chilean homemade bread that is perfect for soaking up the delicious flavors of your favorite stews or simply enjoyed with a spread of butter or jam. This easy-to-make bread is a staple in Chilean households and will quickly become a favorite in yours as well.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup warm water
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
Recipe:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the yeast mixture, warm milk, and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 10-15 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. Form the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a smooth ball and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the dough balls rise for an additional 15 minutes.
- Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. Remove from the oven and allow the bread to cool on a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
With these 12 mouthwatering Chilean recipes, you’ll be able to experience the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Chile without leaving your kitchen. From hearty stews to delicious desserts, these dishes are sure to impress your family and friends and leave them craving more. Happy cooking!
Top 3 FAQ’s and Answers About Chilean Cuisine:
1. What are some common ingredients used in Chilean cuisine?
Chilean cuisine features a variety of ingredients, including fresh seafood from the country’s long coastline, locally grown fruits and vegetables, and an assortment of spices and herbs. Some common ingredients include potatoes, corn, tomatoes, onions, garlic, avocado, cilantro, and chili peppers. Meats such as beef, chicken, and pork are also staples in many dishes. For more information on Chilean ingredients, check out this guide to Chilean cuisine.
2. Are there vegetarian options in Chilean recipes?
Yes, there are plenty of vegetarian options in Chilean recipes. Some of the dishes listed above, such as Porotos Granados (Chilean Bean Stew) and Charquicán (Chilean Vegetable and Meat Hash), can be easily adapted to be vegetarian by omitting or substituting the meat with more vegetables or plant-based protein sources. Other recipes, like Pebre (Chilean Salsa), Sopaipillas (Chilean Pumpkin Fritters), and Pan Amasado (Chilean Homemade Bread), are naturally vegetarian.
3. What are some common Chilean desserts?
Chilean desserts often feature sweet, fruity flavors and creamy textures. Some popular desserts include Leche Asada (Chilean Baked Milk Custard), a caramelized custard similar to flan, and Sopaipillas (Chilean Pumpkin Fritters), which can be enjoyed with sweet toppings like honey or powdered sugar. Alfajores, a type of cookie sandwich filled with dulce de leche, are also a popular treat in Chile. Discover more about traditional Chilean desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Well, folks, it looks like we’ve reached the end of our Chilean culinary adventure! 🍽️ But hey, don’t be sad—there’s a whole world of deliciousness waiting for you to explore. If you’re still hungry for more, why not check out these 9 Cream Cheese Recipes That Will Leave You Wanting More 🧀? Trust us, you’ll be licking your plate clean in no time. So, grab your apron, put on your chef’s hat, and get ready to embark on another tasty journey. Bon appétit, and may the foodie force be with you! 😋👩🍳🌟
