The 10 most iconic dishes of Ecuador

Below, we offer you a selection of the 10 most emblematic dishes of Ecuadorian cuisine, highlighted for their diversity of flavors and their close connection to the country’s cultural roots.

These dishes, passed down through the years, combine native ingredients with influences from indigenous, African, and European traditions, creating a unique and historically rich gastronomic experience.

From the Shrimp Ceviche, a refreshing mix of seafood with onion and lime, to the Potato Stew, a thick soup of potatoes with avocado and cheese, each recipe is a testament to the cultural wealth and authenticity of Ecuadorian cuisine.

Top 10 recipes

1.

Shrimp Ceviche

Shrimp Ceviche

Shrimp ceviche is a refreshing and flavorful delight. With perfectly cooked shrimp mixed with onion, tomato, peppers, and cilantro, all seasoned with lime and a touch of spice. Perfect to enjoy on any occasion. An explosion of flavors in every bite.

Appetizers
1 hour
8 Servings
2.

Locro de choclo

Locro de choclo

The Locro de choclo is a delicious soup that combines tender corn with vegetables in a milk-based broth. The touch of avocado and cilantro when serving gives it a fresh and unique flavor. Perfect to enjoy on cold days and feel the comforting warmth of this traditional dish.

Soups
1 hour
4 Servings
3.

Roast Pork

Roast Pork

The roast pork is a delicious Ecuadorian dish where the pork leg is slowly cooked over firewood, infused with flavors. Served with corn, fried plantains, and other ingredients, it is a feast of aromas and culinary tradition. A delight for the palate.

Main Course
1 hour
20 Servings
4.

Fanesca

Fanesca

Fanesca is a traditional Ecuadorian dish for Holy Week, a family celebration that brings together iconic flavors. Rich in cod, sambo, and pumpkin, this indulgent stew is prepared with care to offer an explosion of flavor and warmth. A dish that unites generations around the table.

Soups
1 hour
8 Servings
5.

Sweet Plantain Tart

Sweet Plantain Tart

The sweet plantain and cheese tart is a classic of Ecuadorian cuisine. A perfect combination of sweet and savory that will delight your palate. Ideal for sharing on any special occasion. Delicious.

Pastry
1 hour
6 Servings
6.

Encased

Encased

Encased is a delicious fish soup typical of Ecuador, full of fresh and aromatic flavors. Its base of onions and vegetables, combined with albacore and yucca, creates a comforting and traditional dish. Perfect to enjoy on any occasion. Enjoy your meal.

Soups
1 hour
4 Servings
7.

Corn Empanadas

Corn Empanadas

Corn empanadas are a versatile and popular snack in Ecuador, filled with a variety of ingredients. The dough is made with sifted flour, water, and salt, forming a mixture that is left to rest before filling and frying.

Appetizers
1 hour
12 Servings
8.

Mote Pata

Mote Pata

Mote Pata is a beloved dish in Latin American culture, highlighted by its combination of corn millet with pork, chorizo, and bacon, all perfectly cooked in a broth full of delicious flavors. A comforting culinary experience filled with tradition.

Soups
1 hour
6 Servings
9.

Roasted Guinea Pig with Potatoes

Roasted Guinea Pig with Potatoes

The roasted guinea pig with potatoes is a traditional dish from the Andean region, cooked with flavorful seasonings and popular cooking techniques. The accompaniment of boiled potatoes and a touch of achiote give it a distinctive and delicious flavor. A typical delicacy of South American cuisine that delights the most adventurous palates. A unique culinary experience full of tradition.

Main Course
1 hour
1 Servings
10.

Rice Tamale in Cabbage Leaf

Rice Tamale in Cabbage Leaf

Prepare delicious rice tamales in cabbage leaves. Filled with shredded pork and peanut sauce, they are an explosion of flavors that will take you to Latin American culinary tradition. Perfect to share with family or friends. Enjoy.

Main Course
1 hour
4 Servings

The most viewed recipes on our site

Here is the list of the most popular recipes on our website. We hope you enjoy them and feel inspired to try them out.

1.

Tree Tomato Juice

Tree Tomato Juice

Tree tomato is very common in Ecuador and is cultivated in cool to mild climates. To prepare its juice, the tomatoes are peeled, cut, and blended with water or milk. Sweetened to taste, strained, and served cold. A delicious drink full of flavor and nutrients. Ideal for refreshing yourself.

Drinks
1 hour
4 Servings
2.

Orange Cake

Orange Cake

The orange cake is a fluffy and easy-to-make delight. With its citrus flavor and fresh aroma, it is perfect for a snack. An economical dessert that will please everyone.

Pastry
1 hour
10 Servings
3.

Catfish Broth

Catfish Broth

The Catfish Broth is a delicious traditional soup in Ecuadorian cuisine. Made with catfish, cassava, and a blend of spices, it is comforting and aromatic. Perfect for winter days or sharing with family. A culinary experience to delight the senses.

Soups
1 hour
4 Servings
4.

Breaded Fish Fillets

Breaded Fish Fillets

Breaded fish fillets are a delight that combines the tenderness of fish with a crispy coating. In Ecuadorian cuisine, they are part of a variety of recipes that conquer palates with their flavor and texture. To prepare them, they are seasoned, breaded, and fried until golden and crispy. A delicious option to enjoy on any occasion.

Main Course
1 hour
4 Servings
5.

Guatita

Guatita

Guatita, Ecuador's national dish, is a delicious stew made with beef stomach pieces. Its preparation includes a meticulous washing process and a mix of intense flavors such as cumin, cilantro, and garlic. A dish that stands out for its texture and warmth in every spoonful.

Main Course
1 hour
8 Servings
6.

Quimbolitos

Quimbolitos

Quimbolitos are a typical delicacy from Ecuador and southern Colombia, prepared with corn flour and steamed in achira leaves. Their unmistakable taste and aroma make them a traditional and unique dessert in the region. Dare to try them and discover their exquisite flavor.

Pastry
1 hour
12 Servings
7.

Lojano Tamale

Lojano Tamale

The Lojano Tamale is a delicious tradition from Loja, prepared with special care. The corn is soaked, ground, and formed into a dough with lard. The chicken is cooked with spices, mixed with the dough, and wrapped in banana leaves to steam. A unique delicacy.

Appetizers
1 hour
10 Servings
8.

Tapao Arrecho

Tapao Arrecho

The traditional Ecuadorian Tapao Arrecho is an explosion of flavors that fuses traditional ingredients such as pork, beef, plantains, and spices. The meticulous preparation and the touch of chilangua or basil make this dish a delightful treat. An unforgettable culinary experience.

Main Course
1 hour
6 Servings
9.

Maduro Lampreado

Maduro Lampreado

The Maduro Lampreado, a coastal delight, consists of plantains stuffed with cheese, wrapped in a light batter and fried until a crispy exterior is achieved. A mix of sweet and savory flavors that blend perfectly in every bite. Ideal to enjoy at any time of the day. Give it a try!

Appetizers
1 hour
6 Servings
10.

Ecuadorian Pork Cracklings

Ecuadorian Pork Cracklings

Ecuadorian pork cracklings are a delight full of contrasts. The meat turns crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, accompanied by sweet and sour flavors of plantains, mote, or pickled onions. An explosion of textures and flavors in every bite. Irresistible.

Appetizers
1 hour
8 Servings