A highlight of our Colombia travel packages is exploring the country’s history and cultures through its cuisine. Here are a few dishes to try when you visit
* **Bandeja paisa. **The national dish of Colombia, bandeja paisa originated as a calorie-rich meal to keep peasant workers fueled for a full day’s work. It consists of rice, plantains, arepa (corn cakes), avocado, minced meat, chorizo, black sausage, fried pork rind, and a fried-egg topper.
* **Empanadas.** Often filled with meat, cheese, or chicken, these fried, stuffed pastries are easy to eat on the go.
* **Sancocho.** This traditional stew is often made with chicken, beef, or pork, but if you’re up for trying something a little different, opt for mondongo, a version made with tripe.
* **Arroz con pollo.** As flavorful as it is simple, this classic and ubiquitous dish comprises rice and chicken cooked together in chicken stock.
* **Cazuela de mariscos.** With a base of coconut milk, this creamy seafood stew is popular along Colombia’s coast.