Photo: Wilfredor · CC0 · via Wikimedia Commons
Bandeja Paisa
Colombia's enormous Antioquian platter - beans, rice, pork, beef, egg, plantain, avocado and arepa on one plate.
Antioquia, Colombia
About Bandeja Paisa
Bandeja paisa is the abundant signature platter of the Paisa region of Colombia. A single plate piles up red beans, white rice, ground beef, crispy pork belly (chicharrón), chorizo, a fried egg, sweet fried plantain, avocado and a small arepa.
More a spread than a single dish, it is designed to be hearty and filling - a celebration of the region's farming abundance served in one generous serving.
History & Culture
The dish grew out of the food of arrieros - the muleteers and farmers of Colombia's mountainous Antioquia - who needed calorie-dense meals for long days of physical labour. Its modern restaurant form took shape in the twentieth century.
Now a symbol of Paisa identity and Colombian cuisine abroad, its sheer size is part of the point: it is meant to be shared, photographed and marvelled at.
Where to eat it
A Medellín restaurant, served on an overflowing platter.
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Bandeja Paisa - frequently asked questions
What is Bandeja Paisa?
Bandeja paisa is the abundant signature platter of the Paisa region of Colombia. A single plate piles up red beans, white rice, ground beef, crispy pork belly (chicharrón), chorizo, a fried egg, sweet fried plantain, avocado and a small arepa.More a spread than a single dish, it is designed to be hearty and filling…
What is Bandeja Paisa made of?
Bandeja Paisa is made with red beans, rice, chicharrón, fried egg and plantain.
Where does Bandeja Paisa come from?
Bandeja Paisa comes from Colombia, and is especially associated with Antioquia. The dish grew out of the food of arrieros - the muleteers and farmers of Colombia's mountainous Antioquia - who needed calorie-dense meals for long days of physical labour.
Where can I eat Bandeja Paisa?
A Medellín restaurant, served on an overflowing platter.
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