Exploring Panama City's Authentic Cuisine: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

Exploring Panama City's Authentic Cuisine: Local Dishes, Restaurants & Recipes

When exploring Panama City, one cannot miss indulging in the authentic local cuisine. With its unique blend of flavors influenced by African, Spanish, and Indigenous cultures, Panamanian cuisine offers a mouthwatering experience that will leave you craving for more. From hearty stews to tropical fruits, here are the must-try dishes, top restaurants, and even a recipe for you to recreate a taste of Panama at home.

Traditional Panamanian Dishes

1. Sancocho: This iconic Panamanian dish is a hearty stew made with chicken, root vegetables, corn, and spices. It is often enjoyed as a comforting meal on Sundays or special occasions. Each region in Panama has its own variation of Sancocho.

2. Ceviche: As a coastal country, Panama is blessed with an abundance of seafood. Ceviche is a popular dish made with fresh fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and other seasonings. It is typically served as an appetizer or snack.

3. Patacones: These crispy plantain fritters are a staple in Panamanian cuisine. Plantains are sliced, fried, and then flattened before being fried again. Patacones are often served as a side dish or used as a base for other ingredients, such as meat, cheese, or salsa.

4. Ropa Vieja: This dish, which translates to "old clothes," is a flavorful shredded beef stew cooked with onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices. It is typically served with rice and beans, and it's a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Top Restaurants in Panama City

1. Restaurante Intimo:

Located in the hip neighborhood of Casco Viejo, Restaurante Intimo offers a fine dining experience with a panoramic view of the city. The menu features a fusion of Panamanian and international cuisine, with dishes crafted using locally sourced ingredients.

2. Manolo Caracol:

This cozy restaurant in the heart of Panama City is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Known for its innovative farm-to-table approach, Manolo Caracol serves up creative dishes highlighting the best of Panamanian flavors and ingredients.

3. Tinajas:

For a truly immersive dining experience, head to Tinajas. This traditional restaurant showcases Panamanian culture through its vibrant decor, live folk music, and, of course, delicious cuisine. Don't miss out on their traditional platters, which offer a variety of local dishes.

Traditional Panamanian Recipe: Arroz con Pollo

If you want to bring the flavors of Panama into your own kitchen, here's a simple recipe for Arroz con Pollo, a classic Panamanian chicken and rice dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds chicken pieces (preferably thighs or drumsticks)
• 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tomato, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomato, cumin, paprika, and dried oregano. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the pot and add the rice. Stir well to coat the rice with the vegetable mixture.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
6. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Panamanian dish with a side of sweet plantains or a fresh tropical fruit salad.

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