Puerto Rican cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino influences, and there are many delicious dishes that are popular in Puerto Rico. In this post, we explore some of the most popular Puerto Rican food options and some of the best places to find them.
Food
- Mofongo: This dish consists of mashed green plantains mixed with garlic and pork cracklings, shaped into a ball or a mound, and served with a variety of fillings such as shrimp, chicken, or beef.
- Arroz con Gandules: This is a traditional Puerto Rican rice dish cooked with pigeon peas, pork, and a sofrito sauce made with onion, garlic, peppers, and herbs.
- Lechón: This is a roasted pig that is often served at large celebrations and holidays. The skin is crispy and the meat is juicy and flavorful.
- Tostones: These are fried plantain slices that are flattened and fried again to make them crispy. They are often served as a side dish or a snack.
- Pasteles: These are similar to tamales and consist of a dough made from grated green bananas, yautía (taro root), and other ingredients, filled with a mixture of meat, vegetables, or beans, and wrapped in banana leaves.
- Empanadillas: These are small turnovers filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and fried until crispy.
- Flan: This is a creamy, caramel-flavored dessert made with eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods that are popular in Puerto Rico.
Drinks
Puerto Rico has a variety of delicious drinks to offer, many of which feature the island’s local rum. Here are some popular Puerto Rican drinks:
- Piña Colada: This is a sweet and creamy cocktail made with rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice. It was invented in Puerto Rico in the 1950s and is now enjoyed around the world.
- Rum Punch: This is a fruity cocktail made with rum, fruit juices, and simple syrup. It is a popular drink for parties and gatherings.
- Mojito: This refreshing cocktail is made with rum, lime juice, mint leaves, and sugar. It’s a great drink for a hot day or a night out.
- Coquito: This is a creamy coconut-based drink made with rum, sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s a traditional Christmas drink in Puerto Rico.
- Medalla Light: This is a popular beer brewed in Puerto Rico that is light and refreshing, perfect for a day at the beach or a night out with friends.
- Sangría: This is a fruity wine-based drink that is often made with rum in Puerto Rico. It’s a great drink for parties and gatherings.
- Malta India: This is a non-alcoholic malt beverage that is popular in Puerto Rico. It’s sweet and malty and is often enjoyed with meals.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious drinks that are popular in Puerto Rico. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing cocktail or a non-alcoholic beverage, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Restaurant Recommendations:
San Juan, Puerto Rico has a vibrant food scene with many excellent restaurants to choose from. Here are some recommendations for restaurants to try in San Juan:
- Marmalade: This is a highly acclaimed restaurant that offers creative, modern cuisine made with locally-sourced ingredients. The menu changes frequently and features dishes like seared scallops, lamb shank, and a variety of vegetarian options.
- Casa Cortés ChocoBar: This is a chocolate lover’s paradise, with a menu that features everything from savory chocolate dishes to decadent desserts. The restaurant also has a beautiful art gallery and a museum that explores the history of chocolate.
- La Placita de Santurce: This is an outdoor marketplace with many food stalls offering traditional Puerto Rican dishes like mofongo, tostones, and empanadillas. It’s a great place to sample a variety of local flavors and experience the lively atmosphere of a local marketplace.
- Jose Enrique: This popular restaurant serves up delicious seafood and other Puerto Rican dishes in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The menu changes regularly to reflect the freshest ingredients available.
- Cocina Abierta: This contemporary restaurant offers a unique menu that combines global flavors with Puerto Rican ingredients. Dishes like crispy pork belly, lamb chops, and roasted octopus are paired with creative cocktails and a curated wine list.
- Raíces: This restaurant celebrates traditional Puerto Rican cuisine with dishes like arroz con gandules, lechón asado, and mofongo. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, with friendly service and live music on the weekends.
These are just a few examples of the many excellent restaurants to try in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Whether you’re looking for modern cuisine, traditional dishes, or a lively atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy.