What are the must-try snacks from Chile?

Introduction to Chilean Snacks

Chilean cuisine is known for its unique blend of indigenous and European influences, and its snacks are no exception. Whether you’re looking for something savory or sweet, Chile has a wide variety of snacks to satisfy your cravings. From hearty empanadas to sweet alfajores, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Popular Savory Snacks in Chile

One of the most popular savory snacks in Chile is the empanada. These delicious pastries are filled with a variety of savory fillings, such as beef, cheese, chicken, or seafood. Another popular snack is the completo, a hot dog topped with avocado, mayonnaise, and tomato. Chilean street food is also a must-try, with stands selling grilled meats, choripanes (sausage sandwiches), and sopaipillas (fried dough).

Sweet Treats to Try in Chile

Chile is home to several delicious sweet treats, including alfajores, which are shortbread cookies filled with dulce de leche and coated in powdered sugar. Another popular sweet snack is the tres leches cake, a sponge cake soaked in three types of milk and topped with whipped cream. Churros, a fried dough pastry rolled in cinnamon and sugar, are also a popular snack in Chile.

Regional Snacks to Discover

Chile is a diverse country with a variety of regional snacks to discover. In the north, try humitas, a savory corn cake wrapped in corn husks. In the south, try curanto, a traditional seafood stew cooked in a pit oven. In the central region, try pastel de choclo, a savory corn and meat pie.

Snacks for Any Time of Day

Chileans love their snacks, and there’s a snack for every time of day. For breakfast, try a tostada con palta, toasted bread topped with mashed avocado. For a mid-morning snack, try a kuchen, a fruit tart with a crumbly crust. For a late-night snack, try a completo or empanada from a street vendor.

Where to Find Chilean Snacks

Chilean snacks can be found throughout the country, from street vendors to bakeries to restaurants. Santiago’s Mercado Central is a great place to sample a variety of seafood snacks, while La Vega Central is a bustling market with a wide variety of snacks and ingredients. Santiago’s Barrio Lastarria is also a great place to find trendy cafes serving up a variety of snacks and drinks.