appetizer
Recipes and dishes that can be used as appetizers.
Crunchy octopus bites (chicharrón de pulpo)
The octopus is boiled first to tenderize the meat. Then it´s marinated in a mix of spices or lime juice. The marinated octopus is fried or grilled until it becomes crispy.
The result is a dish with a unique combination of flavors and textures: the interior remains tender and juicy, while the exterior becomes crispy and crunchy.
Boli with pepper sauce
Boli is made by grilling plantains over an open flame until they are tender and slightly charred. The grilled plantains are often served with a spicy pepper sauce, making it a delicious and satisfying snack or side dish.
Fruit and pecan green bean salad
This fruit and pecan green bean salad recipe is a great side dish. Simply start with a base of green beans, then add in your favorite fruits and some chopped pecans. The dressing will make all come together.
Black eyed pea fritters (acarajé)
Black eyed pea and shrimp fritters with a crunchy texture and a mild nutty flavor with hints of shrimp. Split them open and stuff with various fillings.
Skewers of ox heart meat marinated in vinegar and spices, cooked on the grill. The most popular anticuchos are those made with beef heart.
Bean stuffed poblano peppers
A delightful combination of flavors and textures. The mild heat of the poblanos pairs beautifully with the hearty bean and tomato filling, while the melted cheese adds a touch of richness.
The hot and sour soup represents a balance of contrasting flavors, where the vinegar's sourness is balanced with the chili's heat, similar to the balance of yin and yang.
The soup is customarily consumed during the winter months due to its warming properties. It's also particularly popular during Chinese New Year celebrations due to the belief that sour foods cleanse the body and help usher in a fresh start.
Mexican tostadas are fried corn tortillas topped with refried beans, meat and vegetables. This crips tortilas are easy and fun to make and very enjoyable to eat.
Causa limeña
A delicious potato terrine layered with fillings such as tuna, chicken, or avocado.
Coconut shrimp
Crispy coconut shrimp is a delicious and popular appetizer or main dish featuring succulent shrimp coated in a flavorful coconut crust and deep-fried, or baked, to golden perfection.