The history, culture, biodiversity and wealth of a country can also be measured through its gastronomy. Recipes, traditional dishes, typical flavours and local products are a way of getting to know the essence of a place and its citizens.
Colombia is one of the most important gastronomic destinations in the world, with the Caribbean region occupying a significant place. Within this region, Santa Marta shines with its own light, offering a rich culinary diversity that reflects its history, tradition and culture.
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That is why, with the aim of paying tribute to this culinary richness, we have created Sabores Increíbles, a series that connects the flavours of Santa Marta with its history, tradition and culture through five chapters, each one dedicated to an emblematic ingredient of Samaria's gastronomy. These ingredients are not only fundamental to the local cuisine, but also tell stories of the land and sea, the people and customs of this wonderful region.
This delicious culinary journey is just about to begin!
Are you ready to discover the best-kept secrets of Samaria's gastronomy? In this article, you will learn about the five most emblematic ingredients that give life and flavour to the traditional dishes of this region. Let's get started!
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Fish is one of the mainstays of Santa Marta's food. The proximity to the Caribbean Sea means that local markets are stocked with a variety of fresh fish, such as snapper, mojarra and snook. These are offered in a variety of ways, from the traditional fried fish to more complex ones such as fish in coconut sauce.
In this fascinating episode, chef Guillermo Yanes, from Pescao Restaurant in Santa Marta, invites us to embark on an exciting culinary journey that plunges us into the depths of recipes rooted in regional tradition and the charm of the Pescaito neighbourhood. He will also reveal the secrets of how to make the most of the exquisite ‘bonito’ fish.
Get ready for an unforgettable gastronomic experience through these preparations:
Recipe #1: Bonito rice
Recipe #2: Escabeche de pescado (fish marinade)
Recipe #3: Bonito Empanadas
CHAPTER 1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucv332u3CpI
The corozo is a small, red fruit, typical of the Caribbean region. Its exquisite sweet and sour taste makes it a unique ingredient in Samarian food. It is used in the preparation of refreshing drinks, jams and desserts. In addition, its high antioxidant content makes it delicious, but also beneficial to health. Corozo juice is a traditional drink that, served chilled, is perfect to combat the tropical heat of Santa Marta.
In this exciting episode, chef Fabián Rodríguez of Restaurante Guasimo introduces us to the incredible world of corozo and its central role in Santa Marta's cuisine. From sweet dishes to innovative cocktails, we will discover the versatility of this fruit through Fabián's culinary passion.
Don't miss the opportunity to explore the endless possibilities that the corozo offers in the kitchen!
Recipe #1: Queso costeño with corozo honey
Recipe #2: Arepa samaria with prawns and corozo honey
Recipe #3: Corozo Cocktail
CHAPTER 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aCGosCgtwgY
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Yucca is an essential tuber in the diet of the inhabitants of Santa Marta since pre-Columbian times. It is used in a variety of dishes, from fried yucca to the famous ‘enyucado’, a dessert made from grated yucca, coconut and aniseed. Cassava is versatile, nutritious and reflects the indigenous influence on local cuisine.
In this incredible episode, chef Ivan Saumet, known for his luxury catering services, explores the history of Samarian gastronomy. With his innovative vision, he presents emblematic dishes that reflect cultural diversity, highlighting the ajiaco costeño, a unique version of this traditional dish that captures the essence of the region. Among other dishes.
Discover the traditional flavours with these famous cassava-based recipes!
Recipe #1: Carimañolas
Recipe #2: Chicharrón with cassava
Recipe #3: Ajiaco costeño
CHAPTER 3: COMING SOON
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Shrimp is an essential ingredient in Santa Marta's food. This crustacean is not only a delight to the palate, but also represents the city's connection to the Caribbean Sea. Dishes such as shrimp ceviche, rice with shrimp and casseroles are proof of the versatility and flavour of this ingredient. Its freshness and texture make it an essential part of the Samarian table.
In this great episode, chef Ana Benjumea, from Restaurante Mañe Cayón, immerses us in the rich tradition of coastal gastronomy. With her focus on outstanding shrimp recipes, Ana takes us on a culinary journey that highlights the authentic flavours and ancient techniques of the region. Her carefully prepared dishes celebrate the freshness of local ingredients and pay homage to the cultural roots that have shaped coastal cuisine.
If you want to learn more about this versatile and delicious ingredient, don't miss these recipes.
Recipe #1: Tostones de camarón (shrimp tostones)
Recipe #2: Shrimp cocktail
Recipe #3: Shrimp Rice
CHAPTER 4: COMING SOON
Unlike the ripe plantain, the green banana is not sweet and has a firm texture, making it ideal for a variety of culinary preparations in many tropical and Caribbean cuisines. Its neutral and slightly astringent flavour allows it to combine well with other ingredients and spices, providing a versatile base for stews, salads and purees.
In this amazing episode, chef Camilo Soto, widely recognised for his outstanding work in the field of wedding catering, immerses us in the versatile and delicious world of guineo. With his extensive experience and culinary creativity, he demonstrates how this ingredient can be transformed into a wide variety of exquisite dishes that surprise and delight at both casual events and formal celebrations.
Discover the magic of patacón in this kitchen!
Recipe #1: Octopus with Cayeye
Recipe #2: Guineos pasos
Recipe #3: Tiradito or sea bass ceviche with guineo chips
CHAPTER 5: COMING SOON
Would you like to be part of the next season of Sabores Increíbles? We'd love to have you! Email us at marketing@visitsantamarta.com for more information.
Call or WhatsApp us on +57 310 8720384. We are available Monday to Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Colombian official time.
At Visit Santa Marta, we create personalized experiences and trips that surprise. To learn more about us, visit our website: www.visitsantamarta.com.
Follow us on our social networks:
YouTube: @visitsantamarta (Through this channel you will find all the chapters of our series).
Instagram: @visitsantamarta
TikTok: @visitsantamarta
Facebook: @visitsantamarta
Twitter: @visitsantamarta
Thank you for joining us on this delicious journey!