Food spotlight: Chile


Except for a flag that’s almost a doppelgänger for Texas’ lone star and its endless selection of wine, most Americans don’t know much about that skinny country on the west coast of South America. But they should – particularly when it comes to Chile’s unique cuisine, a delicious fusion of traditional Spanish dishes, indigenous Mapuche ingredients and later influences from Germany, Italy and France.

Here are just a few of our favorite dishes from Chile:

Empanadas – If you think you know these popular baked pies, think again. Chilean empanadas are bigger than those from next door in Argentina. They’re square instead of moon-shaped and they’re usually filled with pino, a mouthwatering mix of minced meat, onions, olives, raisins and eggs.

Cazuela – Although most of the country is temperate year-round, some parts in the south and at higher elevations can get, well, a bit chilly. Cazuela, a savory broth with beef or chicken and potatoes, noodles and pumpkin, is a great way to keep warm.

Humitas – a dish with roots in pre-Hispanic culture, these steamed sweet corn cakes are similar to Mexican tamales and served warm with tomato hot sauce.

Completo – Don’t order a hot dog in Chile, it’s all about the completo, usually served with a huge sausage, diced tomatoes, mayo and sauerkraut.

Terremoto – Literally “earthquake”, this traditional cocktail is made from pipeño, a sweet fermented Chilean wine served with pineapple ice cream and grenadine syrup. Why is it called “earthquake”? Because you’re practically guaranteed to feel a little shaky when you’re done!

Mote con huesillos – This authentically Chilean peach nectar based drink is mixed with husked wheat, dried peaches, chancaca (a traditional sweetener) and served cold.

Which Chilean delicacy has caught your fancy? Share your favorites – as well as any experiences you’ve had in Chile – with the Shop Talk blog community forum.

Did you know: Wine country

When it comes to wine most of us think of France, Italy and Spain but did you know Chile is the fifth largest exporter in the world? In fact, the first wine grapes were planted here in 1554. (Source)

41 thoughts on “Food spotlight: Chile

  1. I like the empanadas, have never tried the rest as I have never been to South American countries. I would be willing to try though and will add to my bucket list.

  2. Never heard of the above name it looks like something I would want to try Especially the Completo thinking for the whole family including the kids similar to the basic chili chili dogs except more condiments is added for taste new information thanks

  3. I have actually had cazuela before, I had Chilean co worker. Its delicious, absolutely a comfort food

  4. The humitas sound like they are right up my alley. I love the taste of the sweet corn cakes and when you add the tomato hot sauce for the “kick”, yum. I will have to see if I can find a restaurant near me that makes them so that I can try them.

  5. Terremoto catches my attention and I want to try it. I love Chilean wine. I buy lots of them. Some Chilean wines such as a Malbec are wonderfully full bodied.

  6. These great photo’s make me feel very hungry they all look delicious I wish I could reach thru the phone and grab them all

  7. I’ve never traveled to Chile to experience this list of food and drink that sounds absolutely delicious! The Empanadas, Humitas and Mote con huesillos would be my choices for a memorable Chilean feast!

  8. I have tried one kind if wine from Chile and it wasn’t bad. I would try others if i knew more about wines from Chile.

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