Chilean Dishes to Drool Over (& Where to Find Them)

There’s no better way to truly get to know a country than by savoring its cuisine. When we think back on our travels, the memories of new tastes and delightful aromas often stand out.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Chile https://geraibunga.id/ and want to explore its rich culinary culture, here’s a list of intriguing Chilean dishes you absolutely must experience.

Dish #1. Completo: A Chilean Hot Dog Delight

While it may appear to be just a loaded hot dog, the completo holds a special place in the hearts of Chileans.

The original recipe includes a sausage nestled in a soft bun, topped with chopped tomatoes, americana sauce, sauerkraut, and mayonnaise. However, the most popular variation is the “Italian completo,” which adds avocado, reflecting the green, white, and red colors of the Italian flag. Chileans adore this creation so much that they even celebrate “Día del completo” every May 25th.

Dish #2. Chorrillana: A Hearty Bar Snack

Chorrillana is the ultimate bar snack in Chile, featuring a generous serving of fries piled high with fried onions, chopped sausages, beef, and, to top it all off, a pair of fried eggs. This calorie-packed treat pairs perfectly with a cold beer. Remember, it’s designed to be shared, as the portion is quite substantial.

Dish #3. Milcao: A South Chilean Staple

Milcao hails from Chiloé, in the southern part of Chile. This dish is made from a mixture of mashed boiled potatoes, grated raw potatoes, lard, salt, and chopped pork skin. The resulting mixture is shaped into bread-like loaves and then either baked or fried. Milcao is often referred to as southern Chile’s bread and can be enjoyed plain or with other accompaniments.

Dish #4. Curanto en Hoyo: A Traditional Mapuche Feast

Staying in Chiloé, curanto en hoyo is a traditional Mapuche feast that has adapted to the challenging weather conditions of the region. The traditional method involves digging a pit in the ground, heating stones and embers until they glow red, then arranging the ingredients in layers, including seafood, meat, vegetables, milcaos, and chapaleles, all covered with nalca leaves. Preparing curanto requires patience and experience.

Dish #5. Porotos con Riendas: A Hearty Countryside Dish

Porotos con riendas is a traditional Chilean countryside dish that combines beans, spaghetti, sausage, and squash. Originally, pig skin strips were used instead of spaghetti, hence the “reins” in the name. This dish originated during times of scarcity when every bit of the pig was utilized, and meals needed to be calorie-rich

Dish #6. Machas a la Parmesana: Seafood Delight with a Cheesy Twist

Machas a la parmesana may sound like an unusual combination of seafood and cheese, but the result is a delightful culinary creation. It’s a simple dish consisting of long hard clams that are opened and then topped with parmesan cheese and a dash of white wine before being baked.

Dish #7. Mote con Huesillo: A Sweet Chilean Delight

Mote con huesillo is a beloved Chilean treat that’s often debated—is it a dessert or a beverage?

What’s indisputable is its deliciousness, especially on a scorching day. This refreshing delight features dehydrated peaches (huesillos) boiled with sugar, cinnamon, and spices, creating a sweet juice. Mote, a type of wheat, is then cooked in this sweet juice. It’s best served ice-cold and enjoyed with a spoon.