The Republic of Panama, nestled between Costa Rica and Colombia, offers a unique blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous cuisines. As a melting pot of flavors, Panamanian cooking is characterized by its use of spices, herbs, and aromatic ingredients. From hearty stews to sweet pastries, Panamanian recipes are sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll delve into 18 flavorful Panamanian recipes that showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage. From classic dishes like Sancocho de Gallina Panameño (Panamanian chicken stew) and Arroz con Pollo Panameño (Panamanian-style chicken and rice), to sweet treats like Tortilla Changa and Bollos Panameños, we’ll explore the best of Panamanian cuisine.
Sancocho de Gallina Panameño
This hearty and flavorful stew is a staple of Panamanian cuisine, perfect for a cozy dinner with family and friends. With its rich chicken broth and tender roasted chicken, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole rooster (3-4 lbs), cleaned and cut into pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 carrot, peeled and sliced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken pieces; brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, potatoes, carrot, and browned chicken. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until chicken is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Arroz con Pollo Panameño
Arroz con Pollo Panameño is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of chicken, saffron-infused rice, and the warmth of spices. This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional Panamanian dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with cilantro (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tamales Panameños
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of Panama with these traditional tamales, filled with a savory mixture of pork, chicken, and vegetables. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound cooked pork, shredded
+ 1/2 pound cooked chicken, shredded
+ 1 onion, chopped
+ 2 cloves garlic, minced
+ 1 red bell pepper, chopped
+ 1 tomato, chopped
+ Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Soak corn husks in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Mix masa harina, shortening, and warm water to form a dough.
3. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each into a thin circle.
4. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a tamale shape, and secure with string or corn husk strips.
6. Steam tamales for 1-2 hours or cook them in boiling water for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Carimañolas
Carimañolas Recipe: Sweet Potato Fritters with Spicy Dipping Sauce
These crispy and sweet Carimañolas, also known as Puerto Rican sweet potato fritters, are a delicious treat. Serve them warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Spicy dipping sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil while stirring until the mixture forms a thick batter.
3. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the sweet potato mixture into the hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Fry the Carimañolas for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain the fritters on paper towels and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for 12-15 Carimañolas.
Tortilla Changa
Tortilla Changa is a flavorful Mexican-inspired dish that combines the comfort of a tortilla wrap with the excitement of grilled chicken, cheese, and veggies. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, grill bell peppers and onion slices for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Brush tortillas with cooking oil and warm on the grill for 1 minute per side.
5. Assemble Changa by placing grilled chicken, veggies, and cheese onto a warmed tortilla.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bollos Panameños
These sweet fried dough pastries are a beloved Panamanian treat that is easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these crispy on the outside, soft on the inside treats that are perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add the vegetable oil, sugar, and warm water to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
6. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly into disks.
7. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the bollos for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
9. Drain excess oil and dust with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ropa Vieja Panameña
Ropa vieja panameña is a popular dish originating from Panama, made with shredded beef cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. This flavorful recipe is a staple of Panamanian cuisine and is often served with rice, beans, and tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, beef broth, tomato sauce, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
3. Shred the beef with two forks and return it to the sauce.
4. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot over rice, beans, and tortillas.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Patacones
A Patacone is a traditional Venezuelan flatbread that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. This recipe brings you a simple and flavorful way to make Patacones at home.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 green plantains
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and slice them into 1/8-inch thick rounds.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
3. Fry the plantain slices in batches until they’re golden brown, about 30 seconds per side.
4. Drain excess oil on paper towels and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Repeat the frying process for each batch of plantain slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hojaldras Panameñas
Hojaldras are traditional Panamanian pastries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for a sweet treat or snack. This recipe yields a batch of delicious hojaldres that can be enjoyed with coffee, tea, or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add milk and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
6. Roll out the dough into thin sheets, about 1/8 inch thick.
7. Fry the hojaldres in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Chicheme
A traditional Mexican treat, Chicheme are crispy fried dough balls coated in sugar and cinnamon. These sweet treats are perfect for snacking or serving as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Fry the dough balls until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. While still warm, coat the Chicheme with sugar and cinnamon mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pescado Frito con Patacones
Experience the flavors of Latin America with this simple and delicious recipe for Fried Fish with Fried Green Plantains.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (any white fish works well)
– 2 green plantains
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cut the plantains into 1-inch rounds, removing any excess skin.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each fish fillet in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the fish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Fry the plantain rounds for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve the fried fish with fried green plantains and your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Arroz con Guandú
This traditional Puerto Rican recipe combines savory rice with tender pigeon peas and aromatic spices, perfect for a comforting meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup pigeon peas (guandú), rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt to taste
– 4 cups water
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, and pigeon peas. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the rice and stir to combine with the other ingredients.
4. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Chorizo Panameño
This flavorful chorizo dish originates from Panama, where it’s often served as an appetizer or side dish. Chorizo Panameño combines the richness of pork and beef with the bold flavors of onions, bell peppers, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork and beef chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chorizo from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Return the cooked chorizo to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sopa de Pata
Sopa de Pata is a comforting and flavorful Colombian chicken soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or whenever you need a warm, satisfying meal. This recipe makes about 6 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, carrot, celery, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Empanadas de Carne Panameñas
These savory empanadas are a staple of Panamanian cuisine, filled with ground beef and spices. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients (below)
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Filling:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Add lard or shortening and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add warm water and knead dough for 5-7 minutes.
4. Divide dough into small balls.
5. Roll out each ball to a thin circle (about 1/8 inch).
6. Place 1 tablespoon of filling in center of each circle.
7. Fold empanada in half, forming a triangle or semicircle.
8. Press edges together with a fork to seal.
9. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
10. Cook empanadas in preheated oil (350°F) for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch
Bistec Picado Panameño
A classic Panamanian dish that combines tender beef strips with a flavorful picadillo filling, wrapped in crispy tortillas. This recipe is a staple of Panamanian cuisine and perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strip loin, sliced into thin strips
– 1/2 cup picadillo filling (ground pork, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic)
– 4-6 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the picadillo filling. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the filling is caramelized.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the Bistec Picado by placing a few pieces of beef onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of picadillo filling. Roll up tightly and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan de Guayaba
Discover the flavors of Cuba with this simple recipe for Pan de Guayaba, a sweet bread infused with guava jam and topped with a crunchy sugar crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 2 tablespoons active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons guava jam
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add warm milk and yeast; mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Punch down the dough; roll out into a rectangle.
7. Spread guava jam over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border.
8. Fold the dough over the jam, forming a triangle or square shape.
9. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
10. Mix confectioners’ sugar and 1 tablespoon water to create a paste; brush over the bread.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tres Leches Panameño
This rich and creamy cake is a staple of Panamanian cuisine, soaked in three types of milk (evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream) to create a moist and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup evaporated milk
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and whisk until combined.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Pour in evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Poke holes all over the top of the cake with a skewer or fork.
9. Pour in three types of milk (evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream) evenly over the top of the cake.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the flavors of Panama! This collection of 18 authentic recipes takes you on a culinary journey through the country’s rich gastronomic heritage. From hearty dishes like Sancocho de Gallina Panameño and Arroz con Pollo Panameño to sweet treats like Pan de Guayaba and Tres Leches Panameño, each recipe is a love letter to the vibrant culture of Panama. Discover the unique flavors and ingredients that define Panamanian cuisine, from plantains and chorizo to coconut and citrus. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for new culinary adventures, this article has something for everyone.