![Ecuadorian cuisine](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-auto,dpr-auto/cuisines/ecuadorian-cuisine--f5013462-0295-47c6-b928-71e6a8fa2e87.png)
Cuisine
Ecuadorian cuisine
Ecuadorian cuisine is heavily influenced by the country's geography, with a focus on seafood along the coast and hearty stews in the Andean highlands. Indigenous ingredients like quinoa, potatoes, and corn are staples in many dishes, while Spanish influences can be seen in dishes like ceviche and empanadas. Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its use of bold flavors, including spicy aji peppers and tangy citrus juices.
Typical ingredients
Quinoa, Potatoes, Corn, Plantains, Yucca, Seafood (shrimp, fish, crab), Aji peppers, Citrus juices, Cilantro, Cumin, Garlic, Onion, Tomatoes, Avocado
Presentation and garnishing
Ecuadorian dishes are often served with a side of rice and beans, and are garnished with fresh herbs and citrus juices.
Ecuador is home to over 4,000 varieties of potatoes, making it one of the most diverse potato-growing regions in the world.
More cuisines from this region...
Brazilian cuisine, Argentinian cuisine, Colombian cuisine, Peruvian cuisine, Venezuelan cuisine, Chilean cuisine, Bolivian cuisine, Paraguayan cuisine, Surinamese cuisine, Uruguayan cuisine
History
Ecuadorian cuisine has a long history dating back to pre-Columbian times, with indigenous ingredients like quinoa and potatoes being staples in the Andean diet. Spanish influences were introduced in the 16th century, with the arrival of the conquistadors. Over time, Ecuadorian cuisine has evolved to become a unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
Cultural significance
Food is an important part of Ecuadorian culture, with many traditional dishes being served during festivals and celebrations. Cuy (guinea pig) is a traditional dish in the Andean highlands, while ceviche is a popular dish along the coast.
Health benefits and considerations
Many Ecuadorian dishes are high in protein and fiber, making them a healthy choice. However, some dishes can be high in fat and calories, so it's important to enjoy them in moderation.
Ecuadorian cuisine dishes Browse all »
![Timbuche](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/timbuche--40a2cdf9-f466-442c-8dc6-82efef1df1cc.png)
Timbuche
Fish soup
Timbuche is a traditional Ecuadorian soup made with fish, peanuts, and vegetables. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold day.
![Chilera](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/chilera--1b6f25a2-6bdd-4b23-bed1-b3aeffd1dfd1.png)
Chilera
Chilera is a spicy condiment that is popular in Central America, particularly in Nicaragua and Honduras. It is made with a variety of pickled vegetables and chili peppers, and...
![Caldo de papas](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/no-image-empty-plate.png)
Caldo de papas
Potato soup
Caldo de papas is a traditional Ecuadorian potato soup.
![Papa](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/papa--507f9eca-0b8c-4d40-8d29-09df855a7e56.png)
Papa
Papa is a traditional dish from Peru that is made with potatoes and a variety of other ingredients. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter nights or...
![Chugchucaras](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/chugchucaras--327ba16b-4be4-41bc-9579-fbd00ce5bcba.png)
Chugchucaras
Chugchucaras (pork dish)
Chugchucaras is a traditional Ecuadorian dish that is made by frying pork, plantains, and corn in lard. The dish is known for its crispy texture and bold flavors.
![Ñachi](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/nachi--14f05582-87b5-4f45-9ffb-3a8957e5c8d2.png)
Ñachi
Ñachi is a traditional Ecuadorian dish that is made from mashed plantains and cheese. It is typically served as a side dish or appetizer.
![Mote de queso](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/mote-de-queso--04a512c2-e1f2-412c-bb4b-26dec3ff9cb8.png)
Mote de queso
Hominy and cheese soup
Mote de queso is a traditional Bolivian dish made with hominy and cheese.
![Caldo de bolas](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/dishes/caldo-de-bolas--142afb44-7815-475c-a30d-693fb17df588.png)
Caldo de bolas
Dumpling soup
Caldo de bolas is a traditional Ecuadorian soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. It is a hearty and filling soup that is made with meat, vegetables, and dumplings. The...
Ecuadorian cuisine recipes Browse all »
![Ñachi de Ecuador](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/nachi-de-ecuador--b34fd8eb-e37f-402a-abd6-99e3bd349cfc.png)
Ñachi de Ecuador
Andean Delight: Ñachi - A Traditional Ecuadorian Corn and Cheese Dish
![Ecuadorian Tunnbrödsrulle](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/ecuadorian-tunnbrodsrulle--80a5f036-ee13-44d9-87ad-f0893d981325.png)
Ecuadorian Tunnbrödsrulle
Andean Delight: Ecuadorian Tunnbrödsrulle
![Ecuadorian Vegetable Stew](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/ecuadorian-vegetable-stew--0d073db4-478b-4f4c-ac23-bbb0b4b09090.png)
Ecuadorian Vegetable Stew
Hearty Harvest: Ecuadorian Vegetable Stew
![Bolón de Verde with Shrimp and Avocado Salsa](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/bolon-de-verde-with-shrimp-and-avocado-salsa--676b9114-c14d-4313-90da-a9fe51dab971.png)
Bolón de Verde with Shrimp and Avocado Salsa
Savory Plantain Balls with Succulent Shrimp and Creamy Avocado Salsa
![Papa Rellena - Stuffed Potato Balls](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/papa-rellena-stuffed-potato-balls--97e21f14-3b07-4cc0-8b67-100b9a4391bd.png)
Papa Rellena - Stuffed Potato Balls
Savory Delights: Crispy Ecuadorian Stuffed Potato Balls
![Helado de Paila - Ecuadorian Traditional Ice Cream](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/helado-de-paila-ecuadorian-traditional-ice-cream--17a14d66-09f4-42d1-b783-f92e538121cd.png)
Helado de Paila - Ecuadorian Traditional Ice Cream
Andean Delight: A Taste of Ecuadorian Helado de Paila
![Encebollado de Pescado (Ecuadorian Fish Soup)](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/encebollado-de-pescado-ecuadorian-fish-soup--f8e2b121-274a-454e-b110-617f9d5330e1.png)
Encebollado de Pescado (Ecuadorian Fish Soup)
Ocean Delight: A Flavorful Ecuadorian Fish Soup
![Chifle de Ecuador: Crispy Plantain Chips](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/chifle-de-ecuador-crispy-plantain-chips--0c32c95d-459c-419d-a2dd-544ffadc6569.png)
Chifle de Ecuador: Crispy Plantain Chips
Golden Delights: Ecuadorian Crispy Plantain Chips
![Fanesca - Ecuadorian Easter Soup](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/no-image-empty-plate.png)
Fanesca - Ecuadorian Easter Soup
Andean Delight: A Hearty Celebration of Ecuadorian Easter
![Picante de Pallares with Quinoa and Avocado Salsa](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/picante-de-pallares-with-quinoa-and-avocado-salsa--c6e9fec1-e5a1-45c1-bb06-91ee5ddc2b52.png)
Picante de Pallares with Quinoa and Avocado Salsa
Spicy Ecuadorian Pallares Stew with Quinoa and Creamy Avocado Salsa
![Spicy Seafood Stew](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/spicy-seafood-stew--f3d4ed28-8cd1-4fc4-bdd8-28fdb1e74b93.png)
Spicy Seafood Stew
Fiery Delight: A Taste of Ecuadorian Spicy Seafood Stew
![Ecuadorian Potato and Cheese Soup](https://ik.imagekit.io/human/tr:w-400,dpr-auto/recipes/ecuadorian-potato-and-cheese-soup--9b9e7790-af33-4891-978b-15ca47aa01fb.png)
Ecuadorian Potato and Cheese Soup
Andean Comfort: Ecuadorian Potato and Cheese Soup