Leo, let's discuss Colombian and Panamanian food culture. Ready?
Colombia and Panama? I'm ready, although I hope nothing's suspiciously alive.
No worries. Let's start with Colombia. Think arepas, bandeja paisa, and copious amounts of coffee.
Arepas? I've heard of these corn cakes. Is there a secret ingredient? And bandeja paisa... is it as massive as they say?
It's a mountain of beans, rice, chorizo, chicharrón, avocado, a fried egg... a culinary Everest!
A culinary Everest I'd conquer! But Panama? Is it primarily seafood?
Panama offers ceviche, sancocho, and plantains galore. Their ceviche is incredible.
Ceviche I love! What's in the Panamanian sancocho?
A hearty chicken soup with ñame, culantro, and love – a warm hug in a bowl.
Perfect for a rainy day. Now, nutritional alternatives. Are these countries embracing healthier options?
Definitely a health trend! Colombia sees more quinoa, chia seeds, and avocado in everything. Panama focuses on fresh local produce.
Avocado everything? Details!
Avocado ice cream, smoothies, even in arepas! Panama uses plantains in chips, empanadas... a plantain party!
Plantain empanadas! That's innovation. Are they health-conscious, or just making comfort food healthier?
A bit of both. They’re finding creative ways to make healthy food taste amazing.
What about traditional snacks?
Empanadas, buñuelos, and obleas in Colombia; raspao, cocadas, and plantain chips in Panama. These classics endure.
Good to know! What about drinks? Sugary sodas, or local alternatives?
Colombia has aguapanela (sugar cane water) and lulo juice. Panama has chicheme (sweet corn drink) and raspadura (similar to aguapanela).
Aguapanela and chicheme sound intriguing! Are they as good as they sound?
Amazing, but sweet! You might need to adjust your sweet tooth.
And coffee? Is the obsession real?
In Colombia, coffee is a way of life! Panama also has excellent coffee, especially Geisha.
One dish recommendation from each country for a first-timer?
From Colombia, bandeja paisa. From Panama, ceviche.
Excellent choices! To our listeners, rate this podcast and visit jetoff.ai! Bon appétit!