Chilean cuisine

Chilean recipes may not always be in the culinary spotlight, but a treasure trove of flavors is waiting to be discovered. 

The way Chileans eat is organized around seasons and local products. Most Chilean foods are simple and vegetable-forward (meat was and still is expensive). Flavors are mild. At many houses and restaurants, you will see a bottle of hot sauce (mild if you compare it to the USA/Mexican taste) to add some spiciness to your plate.

What is traditional Chilean food?

Most traditional dishes can be traced to Colonial times when the Spaniards occupied Chile (1598-1810). Corn, potatoes, and squash are native to Chile. The Spaniards introduced beef and sugar, and true melting occurred.

The dish currently considered the oldest and still made (but with variations) in Chilean homes is Charquicán ( a potato, squash stew).

Other traditional dishes are Pastel de Choclo (Corn and meat pie), Empanadas de Pino (beef and onion empanadas), Pollo Arvejado (Peas and carrots chicken stew), and Costillar de Chancho (Spicy Spare ribs).

Chicken and pork are cheaper proteins that Chileans appreciate. Pork is called Chancho, and many festivals and emblematic dishes celebrate it.

Here, you can see examples of seasonal menus for a Chilean lunch or dinner.

What time do Chileans eat?

Breakfast is quick and small. It can be on the go between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m. You can read more about Chilean Breakfast here.

Lunch during the work week depends on each person's routine. Lunch on weekends, vacations, and holidays is the most essential and communal affair. Usually, it starts around 1 or 2 p.m. and can take several hours. It's common to have "algo para picar" (small appetizer) and a cocktail Pisco Sour, or wine punches (borgoña). The main dish, several salads, and sauces like Pebre and bread are usually on the table. And dessert (read more about Chilean desserts here).

In the afternoon, the favorite Chilean meal is Once (like a giant tea service with bread and sweets). Often during the work week, is Once-Comida (tea and dinner with some leftover food). The timing for Once varieties, but around 7 or 8 p.m. is traditional.

What drinks are popular in Chile?

For breakfast and Once, coffee and tea are popular.

For lunch and dinner, sodas, fruit juices, and wine. Water is safe to drink in Chile.

For special occasions, there are traditional cocktails.

Do not expect to be served a big glass of water with ice at restaurants. And if you ask for water, you will most likely get a small glass with room-temperature water. If you want ice, you must request it.

For midmorning, an eternal favorite is the Cortado, now popular in the US.

To explore Chilean food, click on each category or visit our article about the seven must-try dishes in Chile.

See Chilean Appetizers and Beverages

See Chilean Breads

See Chilean Breakfast

See Chilean Cakes and Bakes

See Chilean Cookies and Candy

See Chilean Desserts

See Chilean Jams and Jellies

See Chilean Meat

See Chilean Once

See Chilean Pasta, Rice & Potatoes

See Chilean Poultry

See Chilean Salads

See Chilean Sandwiches

See Chilean Seafood

See Chilean Soups & Starters

See Chilean Vegetables

Hi, I'm Pilar Hernandez