Ecuadorian cuisine is a hidden gem in the culinary world, packed with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and a rich cultural history.
From the coastal regions to the Andean highlands, Ecuador offers a diverse array of dishes that are as vibrant as its landscapes.
If you’re a foodie looking to expand your palate, you’re in for a treat.
Get ready to dive into a world of mouthwatering stews, crispy snacks, and hearty meals that’ll make you feel like you’re dining in the heart of Quito or Guayaquil.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these Ecuadorian recipes are totally doable and absolutely delicious.
So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
1. Encebollado Ecuador’s Ultimate Hangover Cure
Encebollado is Ecuador’s beloved fish stew, often hailed as the best hangover cure in the country.
This hearty dish is made with fresh tuna, yuca (cassava), and a tangy onion-tomato sauce that’ll wake up your taste buds.
It’s a coastal favorite, but trust me, it’s worth trying no matter where you are.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh tuna
- 2 cups yuca (peeled and chopped)
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 2 tomatoes (diced)
- 1 bunch cilantro (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp achiote powder
- 4 cups fish or vegetable broth
- Lime wedges for serving
How to Make It:
Start by boiling the yuca until tender. In a separate pot, sauté garlic, cumin, and achiote powder.
Add the tuna, broth, and tomatoes, then simmer until the fish is cooked. Shred the tuna and add the yuca.
Top with pickled red onions and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges and enjoy!
Why We Chose It:
Encebollado is a flavor-packed dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
It’s a must-try for seafood lovers and anyone looking to explore authentic Ecuadorian cuisine.
2. Llapingachos Cheesy Potato Patties You’ll Crave
Llapingachos are golden, crispy potato patties stuffed with gooey cheese.
These little guys are a staple in Ecuadorian households and are often served with a peanut sauce that’s downright addictive.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (boiled and mashed)
- 1 cup queso fresco (crumbled)
- 1 tsp achiote powder
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Mix the mashed potatoes with achiote powder and salt. Form small patties, stuff them with queso fresco, and coat them lightly in flour.
Fry until golden brown. Serve with a side of peanut sauce for dipping.
Why We Chose It:
Llapingachos are the ultimate comfort food. They’re crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying.
3. Ceviche de Camarón Coastal Freshness in Every Bite
Ecuadorian ceviche is a tangy, citrusy delight made with shrimp, lime juice, and a mix of fresh veggies.
It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for a summer day.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb shrimp (cooked and peeled)
- 1 red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1 tomato (diced)
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 1/2 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 bunch cilantro (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour.
Serve with plantain chips or popcorn for a crunchy contrast.
Why We Chose It:
This ceviche is a burst of fresh flavors that’ll transport you straight to the Ecuadorian coast.
4. Seco de Pollo A Hearty Chicken Stew
Seco de Pollo is a comforting chicken stew made with (or a non-alcoholic substitute), cilantro, and a blend of spices.
It’s slow-cooked to perfection and served with rice and avocado.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
- 1 cup cilantro (blended with water)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp achiote powder
- 1 cup (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups rice (cooked)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion, garlic, and spices. Add the chicken and cilantro puree, then pour in the or broth.
Simmer until the chicken is tender. Serve with rice and avocado slices.
Why We Chose It:
This stew is the epitome of comfort food, with a rich, herbaceous flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more.
5. Empanadas de Viento Cheesy, Airy Delights
These empanadas are light, fluffy, and filled with melty cheese. They’re a popular street food snack in Ecuador and are perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup queso fresco (crumbled)
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
Mix the flour and butter, then add water to form a dough. Roll out the dough, fill with cheese, and fold into half-moons. Fry until golden and puffy.
Why We Chose It:
Empanadas de Viento are a simple yet irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing.
6. Locro de Papa Creamy Potato Soup
Locro de Papa is a creamy potato soup topped with avocado and cheese. It’s a staple in the Andean region and is as comforting as it gets.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 cup milk
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- 1/2 cup queso fresco (crumbled)
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion and garlic, then add the potatoes and cumin. Cover with water and simmer until tender.
Blend half the soup, then stir in milk. Serve with avocado and cheese.
Why We Chose It:
This soup is creamy, hearty, and perfect for chilly days.
7. Churrasco Ecuatoriano A Meat Lover’s Dream
Churrasco Ecuatoriano is a grilled steak dish served with rice, fries, and a fried egg. It’s a hearty meal that’ll satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb skirt steak
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups rice (cooked)
- 1 cup fries
- 2 eggs (fried)
How to Make It:
Season the steak with cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Grill to your desired doneness. Serve with rice, fries, and a fried egg on top.
Why We Chose It:
This dish is a meat lover’s paradise, packed with flavor and texture.
8. Tigrillo A Breakfast Staple
Tigrillo is a scrambled egg dish made with mashed green plantains, cheese, and onions.
It’s a hearty breakfast that’ll keep you full all morning.
Ingredients:
- 2 green plantains (peeled and mashed)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup queso fresco (crumbled)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Sauté the onion, then add the mashed plantains. Stir in the eggs and cheese, and cook until scrambled.
Why We Chose It:
Tigrillo is a unique and filling breakfast option that’s full of flavor.
9. Seco de Chivo Ecuadorian Goat Stew
Seco de Chivo is a beloved Ecuadorian dish that brings comfort in every bite.
This slow-cooked goat stew is rich, savory, and tangy, thanks to the naranjilla (a citrus-like fruit) juice that balances the earthy flavors of the meat.
Served with rice, fried plantains, and avocado, this dish is a feast for the senses.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs goat meat (cut into chunks)
- 2 onions (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 cup naranjilla juice (or substitute with a mix of orange and lime juice)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp achiote powder (for color and flavor)
- 2 tbsp cilantro (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup or broth
- 1 ripe plantain (sliced and fried)
- Cooked rice and avocado (for serving)
How to Make It:
In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and bell pepper until fragrant. Add the goat meat, cumin, and achiote, cooking until browned on all sides.
Pour in the naranjilla juice and (or broth), then season with salt and pepper.
Cover and simmer for about 90 minutes or until the meat is tender and the sauce thickens.
Stir in chopped cilantro before serving. Plate it up with rice, fried plantains, and avocado on the side for a true Ecuadorian experience.
Why Did This Make It to Our List?
Seco de Chivo is one of Ecuador’s most iconic dishes, blending bold flavors and tender meat into a meal you won’t forget.
Its tangy, slow-cooked goodness paired with traditional sides makes it a must-try for any food lover seeking authentic Ecuadorian flavors.
And satisfying dish that’s perfect for a special meal.
10. Quimbolitos Sweet Corn Cakes
Quimbolitos are sweet, steamed corn cakes wrapped in banana leaves. They’re a delightful dessert or snack that’s uniquely Ecuadorian.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup raisins
- Banana leaves (for wrapping)
How to Make It:
Mix the cornmeal, butter, sugar, and raisins. Spoon the mixture onto banana leaves, wrap, and steam for 30 minutes.
Why We Chose It:
These sweet, moist cakes are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
11. Arroz con Menestra y Carne Rice, Beans, and Steak
This classic dish features perfectly cooked rice, flavorful lentils, and grilled steak. It’s a complete meal that’s both hearty and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb steak
- 2 cups rice (cooked)
- 1 cup lentils (cooked)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
Season and grill the steak. Sauté the onion and garlic, then add the lentils and cumin. Serve with rice and steak.
Why We Chose It:
This dish is a staple in Ecuadorian cuisine, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Conclusion
Ecuadorian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, and these recipes are just the tip of the iceberg.
Whether you’re craving something hearty, fresh, or sweet, there’s something here for everyone.
So, why not bring a taste of Ecuador to your kitchen? Pick a recipe, gather your ingredients, and get cooking.