Colombian cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, and nowhere is this more evident than in the country’s breakfast traditions. Colombian breakfast is not just about fueling up for the day; it’s a celebration of the day ahead, a chance to savor the comforting, hearty dishes that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the nation. From the bustling streets of Bogotá to the serene Andean highlands, breakfast in Colombia is a flavorful journey that brings together the best of the country’s diverse culinary influences.
To sit down to a Colombian breakfast is to participate in a ritual that has been perfected over generations. It’s a moment of connection, whether shared with family and friends or savored in solitude. The warmth of a freshly made pandebono, the comforting embrace of changua on a cool morning, or the satisfying blend of flavors in a calentado—each of these dishes tells a story of a people who find joy in the simple, yet profound pleasure of good food.
Orlando, a city known for its cultural diversity and vibrant food traditions, offers an incredible array of culinary experiences that transport you across the globe. For those who crave the rich and hearty flavors of Colombian cuisine, the city’s Colombian breakfast offerings are a true delight. In Orlando, this tradition comes alive in the kitchens of local Colombian eateries, where passionate chefs bring the authentic flavors of their homeland to life, offering residents and visitors alike a taste of Colombia’s beloved morning meals. Let’s dive into the most famous of these dishes that have captured the hearts and appetites of so many, offering a delicious and memorable start to your day in this vibrant city.
1. Arepa con Queso
No discussion of Colombian breakfast is complete without mentioning the iconic arepa. A staple in Colombian households, arepas are cornmeal cakes that are grilled, baked, or fried to perfection. While arepas can be enjoyed at any time of day, arepa con queso (arepa with cheese) is particularly popular for breakfast.
These savory cakes are often stuffed with melted cheese or served with a slice of fresh, salty cheese on top. The combination of the slightly crisp exterior and the soft, cheesy interior makes for a comforting and satisfying start to the day. Arepa con queso can be enjoyed on its own, with butter, or accompanied by a hot cup of Colombian coffee, making it a versatile and beloved breakfast choice.
2. Calentado
Calentado is a dish that truly embodies the concept of comfort food. Originating from the Antioquia region, calentado is a hearty breakfast dish made by reheating the previous day’s leftovers, typically rice and beans, and combining them with fresh ingredients like eggs, chorizo, or steak. The name calentado literally means “heated up,” and this dish is a perfect example of how Colombian cuisine values resourcefulness and flavor.
Served with a side of arepa, calentado is a breakfast that keeps you full and energized throughout the day. It’s a popular choice among Colombians for its simplicity and satisfying taste, and it’s a great way to reduce food waste by giving leftovers a delicious second life.
3. Huevos Pericos
For those who enjoy eggs for breakfast, huevos pericos is a must-try Colombian dish. This simple yet flavorful dish consists of scrambled eggs cooked with finely chopped tomatoes and green onions. The vibrant colors of the ingredients give the dish its name—pericos means “parrots” in Spanish, and the dish is named for the bright colors of the birds.
Huevos pericos are often served with arepas or bread, and they make for a quick and nutritious breakfast that’s packed with flavor. The combination of the juicy tomatoes and the savory green onions adds a delicious twist to the classic scrambled eggs, making huevos pericos a beloved breakfast dish across Colombia.
4. Changua
In the cool, mountainous regions of Colombia, particularly around Bogotá, changua is a traditional breakfast soup that warms both body and soul. Made with milk, water, eggs, and scallions, changua is a unique and comforting dish that’s often enjoyed on chilly mornings.
The preparation of changua involves poaching eggs directly in a mixture of hot milk and water, creating a creamy broth that is both rich and soothing. The soup is typically garnished with cilantro and served with pieces of stale bread or calado (a type of Colombian bread), which are dipped into the soup to soak up the flavors. Changua is a dish that speaks to the heart of Colombian home cooking—simple, nourishing, and full of flavor.
5. Tamales Colombianos
Tamales are a beloved dish across Latin America, and in Colombia, they hold a special place in the country’s breakfast traditions. Colombian tamales are made from a mixture of corn dough filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, chicken, potatoes, peas, and carrots. The mixture is then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed until the flavors meld together into a delicious and hearty dish.
In Colombia, tamales are often enjoyed as a special weekend breakfast or during holidays and celebrations. The process of making tamales is time-consuming and labor-intensive, but the result is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s well worth the effort. Served with a side of hot chocolate or coffee, tamales colombianos are a delicious way to start the day.
6. Pandebono
Pandebono is a type of cheesy bread that’s particularly popular for breakfast in Colombia. Made from a combination of cornmeal, cheese, and yucca starch, pandebono has a unique texture that is both crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The bread has a slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of Colombian coffee or hot chocolate.
Pandebono is often enjoyed warm, straight out of the oven, and its cheesy goodness makes it a favorite among Colombians of all ages. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a complement to other breakfast dishes, pandebono is a simple yet irresistible treat that’s perfect for a quick and delicious start to the day.
7. Chocolate Santafereño con Queso
In the highlands of Colombia, particularly in Bogotá, there’s a unique and beloved breakfast tradition that involves pairing hot chocolate with cheese. Chocolate santafereño, named after the city’s former name, Santa Fe de Bogotá, is a rich, frothy hot chocolate made with a special chocolate blend.
What makes this dish truly unique is the addition of cheese—often a soft, mild cheese like queso campesino—which is dunked into the hot chocolate until it softens and melts slightly. The combination of the sweet, creamy chocolate and the salty, melted cheese creates a delicious contrast of flavors that’s both comforting and indulgent. Chocolate santafereño con queso is more than just a drink; it’s a cherished breakfast tradition that’s deeply rooted in Colombian culture.
8. Arequipe y Almojábanas
For those with a sweet tooth, arequipe paired with almojábanas offers a delightful breakfast option. Arequipe is a rich, caramel-like spread made from sweetened milk, similar to dulce de leche. It’s often spread on almojábanas, which are soft, cheesy bread rolls made from cornmeal and cheese.
The combination of the sweet arequipe and the savory almojábanas creates a perfect balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and indulgent. This breakfast pairing is a favorite among Colombians, offering a taste of the country’s rich dairy traditions and love for sweet treats.
Start Your Day with Authentic Colombian Breakfast at Mecatos Bakery and Café
Orlando’s diverse food scene is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and for those seeking the rich, comforting flavors of Colombian breakfasts, the city does not disappoint. Each dish, whether it’s the savory warmth of calentado, the cheesy indulgence of pandebono, or the delicate balance of huevos pericos, offers a window into the heart of Colombian culture; a culture that celebrates family, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food.
For an authentic and unforgettable Colombian breakfast experience in Orlando, Mecatos Bakery and Café stands out as a must-visit restaurant. With a commitment to preserving the traditional flavors and techniques of Colombian cuisine, Mecatos offers a menu filled with beloved breakfast dishes that transport you straight to Colombia. From the moment you walk through the door, you’re greeted with the inviting aromas of freshly prepared food, the warmth of Colombian hospitality, and the promise of a meal that will start your day on a truly delicious note.
At Mecatos, every dish is crafted with care, using the finest ingredients and time-honored recipes that have been passed down through generations. Whether you’re enjoying a warm arepa con queso, a bowl of comforting changua, or the sweet, cheesy delight of almojábanas, Mecatos Bakery and Café provides a genuine taste of Colombia’s rich breakfast traditions. It’s a place where the vibrant flavors of Colombia come alive, where every bite tells a story, and where every visit to this restaurant feels like a journey home. So, next time you’re in Orlando and craving an authentic Colombian breakfast, make Mecatos Bakery and Café your first stop for a truly memorable and heartwarming experience.