3 Best Meals in Cali

Colombian Cuisine

Cali, the capital of the Valle del Cauca department in Colombia, is a city known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Cali cuisine is known for being delicious, varied, and full of intense flavors. It combines indigenous, African, and Spanish influences, creating a unique culinary fusion.

When it comes to gastronomy in the vibrant city of Cali, you're in for a treat. This article section is your guide to the three best meals that you simply can't afford to miss while visiting this culinary hotspot. From traditional Colombian flavors to modern culinary innovations, Cali has it all. Let's dive in!

3 Best Meals List

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Aborrajado

Chuleta Valluna

Sancocho de Gallina

Aborrajado

Discover the Irresistible Aborrajado Caleño

If you're in Cali and looking to tantalize your taste buds, Aborrajado Caleño is the dish you can't afford to miss. Aborrajado is a delicious preparation that combines ripe plantain, cheese, and meat, all wrapped in a batter and then fried until crispy and golden. It is a very popular and appreciated dish in Cali's gastronomy. The flavor and combination of ingredients in the "aborrajado caleño" make it irresistible for lovers of Colombian food. It is a unique culinary experience that combines the sweetness of ripe plantain with the saltiness of cheese and meat, creating a balance of flavors that captivates those who try it. It's no wonder that "Aborrajado" holds a special place in the heart of Cali's gastronomy.

Chuleta Valluna

Unveiling the Delectable Chuleta Valluna

Chuleta Valluna is a dish a dish reminiscent of schnitzel but with a distinct Colombian twist. This delightful creation stars a succulent pork chop, expertly seasoned with a medley of spices, and either grilled or fried to achieve a perfect golden, crispy crust. The portion is usually generous in size and served as the main dish. A notable feature is the way it's accompanied. It is served with different traditional side dishes, such as white rice, beans, fried ripe plantain, "hogao" (a sauce made with tomatoes and onions), avocado salad, and "arepa valluna" (a type of cornbread).

These side dishes perfectly complement the pork chop and add a variety of flavors and textures to the dish. Chuleta Valluna is a true gastronomic masterpiece that reflects the influence of Creole and Mestizo cuisine in the best way possible.

Sancocho de Gallina

Indulge in the Richness of Sancocho de Gallina

When it comes to iconic dishes in Cali's culinary repertoire, Sancocho de Gallina, or chicken stew, stands out as a true gem. This hearty soup is a labor of love, featuring a diverse array of ingredients with chicken taking center stage. Cali's sancocho (from the Spanish verb sancochar, "to parboil") de gallina, or chicken and vegetable soup, is characterized by its rich and deep flavor, obtained from long hours of slow cooking.

In addition to the chicken, other ingredients such as green plantain, potato, yuca, corn cobs, onion, garlic, cilantro, and spices are added to give it a unique taste. The preparation of sancocho de gallina is a laborious process that involves cooking the chicken for several hours until it is tender, and the meat easily falls off the bone. This is achieved through prolonged slow cooking, allowing the flavors to blend and fully develop.

The result is a thick and aromatic broth, full of flavor, in which the tender and juicy chicken meat is immersed. This dish is traditionally served piping hot and can be accompanied by sides like white rice, creamy avocado, a touch of chili sauce, and a squeeze of fresh lemon, enhancing the overall experience.

Summary of the 3 Best Meals in Cali

Palate

Now that you've got a taste of the three best meals in Cali, your culinary adventure awaits. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just looking to try something new, these dishes are sure to delight your senses and introduce you to the authentic flavors of this Colombian gem. Enjoy your gastronomic journey in Cali!

Colombian Cuisine

If learning about the fine foods available in Colombia is something that interests, you. Check out our other blog posts featuring other Colombian locations 3 Best Traditional Dishes in Bogota, Colombia, and 3 Must-Try Meals in Medellin with the best meals to try.

Cali Gastronomy

These are just some of the culinary delights that Cali has to offer. Don't hesitate to explore local gastronomy and try other dishes such as "empanadas vallunas," "pandebonos," "champús," and "luladas," among others. Cali, the third-largest city in Colombia, is known for its vibrant culture and is also famous for its street food scene. Enjoy your meal!

Have you tried any of these meals?

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If you enjoy this post about the gastronomy of Cali, consider some of our other posts from the Arts category discussing gastronomy.

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