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Sun, sand and waves are always "on the menu" at Santa Marta for those looking for a seaside Colombian adventure, but foodies looking for culinary delights will also discover the treasures of the Caribbean in Santa Marta, along with some distinctly Colombian flavors. Some of the traditional fare that can be found includes cazuela de mariscos (fish stew), carimañolas (fritters), and cocadas (a sweet coconut treat). Ask your Colombian tour guide to let you try these delicious dishes.
photo by (via Pixabay.com)
Cazuela de mariscos
Colombia borders both the Caribbean sea and the Pacific Ocean, which means seafood is a staple of the cuisine, especially in coastal cities. Cazuela de mariscos uniquely blends the flavors of shrimp, clams, and various fish, with coconut milk, wine, paprika, and tomatoes. Once you add fresh herbs, this dish dances across the palate with the fruits of the sea and the richness of a fine meal. This warm and zesty stew is perfect for a celebration, or after a day of water sports and sun in Santa Marta.
Carimañolas
Popular along the Caribbean region of Colombia, carimañolas are a fritter made with yuca, and stuffed with meat, or sometimes cheese. This hearty and filling fritter is often served for breakfast, along with suero, a fermented milk condiment. Suero has the consistency of yogurt, or thin sour cream, and is also common in the region. Yuca, if you are curious, is somewhat similar to a potato in consistency, but lighter and a little more vibrant. Fun fact: yuca is also the "tapioca" in tapioca pudding.
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Cocadas
These small and simple desserts can come in many varieties, depending on the region, and even family traditions. The main ingredient, if you hadn't guessed from the name, is always coconut. Some versions, like cocadas blancas include milk and coconut water, while cocadas de arequipe adds the sweetness of condensed milk. Cocadas are very popular and found in many parts of Colombia, and can be purchased in most small markets. If you love coconut, these are a must try dessert. If you are handy in the kitchen, you can try this simple recipe, courtesy of Food Network.
Cocadas recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups shredded sweetened coconut
- 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar optional
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a medium mixing bowl, stir together coconut, cornstarch, condensed milk, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Let mixture sit for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Using 2 tablespoons, drop by heaping rounded spoonfuls onto parchment lined cookie sheet about 1-inch apart. Watching closely, bake for 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden brown. Remove from oven and cool on wire rack.
- Using fine meshed sieve or sifter, dust with confectioners' sugar. Store loosely covered until ready to serve.
Are you ready to sample the authentic cuisine of Colombia's Caribbean coast? Explore exciting flavor profiles and exotic dishes after going on Uncharted Colombia's Tayrona Scuba Diving Day trip, which is based in sunny Santa Marta. Colombia is waiting.