Chile, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is also home to a vibrant Chile street food scene. Whether you’re wandering through the bustling streets of Santiago or exploring coastal cities like Valparaíso, traditional Chilean food offers a unique blend of indigenous Mapuche traditions, Spanish influences, and modern twists. This article will guide you through the best street food in Chile, ensuring you savor the must-try Chilean dishes this South American country has to offer.
1. Completo – Chile’s Take on the Hot Dog
The completo is one of Chile’s street food icons. Unlike a traditional hot dog, a completo is loaded with generous toppings, including mayonnaise, chopped tomatoes, sauerkraut, and mashed avocado. Variations include:
- Completo Italiano – Named for its resemblance to the Italian flag, with avocado, tomato, and mayonnaise.
- Completo Dinámico – Includes additional sauces like mustard and ketchup for an extra kick.
- Completo As Italiano – Features melted cheese for a richer flavor.
Where to Try: Street vendors in Santiago’s Plaza de Armas or near universities.
2. Sopaipillas – The Perfect Fried Snack
Sopaipillas are deep-fried dough disks made from pumpkin-infused flour, giving them a slightly sweet taste. They can be enjoyed in two ways:
- Sopaipillas con Pebre – Served with Chilean pebre, a tangy mix of tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chili.
- Sopaipillas Pasadas – Soaked in a cinnamon and orange peel syrup for a sweet treat.
Where to Try: Found at markets and where to eat in Chile, especially in Santiago and Valparaíso.
3. Empanadas – A Savory Chilean Classic
Empanadas are a staple in Chilean cuisine, commonly found in both bakeries and street stalls. The most popular type is the Empanada de Pino, filled with minced beef, onions, black olives, raisins, and a hard-boiled egg. Other variations include:
- Empanada de Mariscos – Stuffed with fresh seafood, perfect for coastal areas.
- Empanada de Queso – A cheese-filled delight, either baked or fried.
Where to Try: Best enjoyed at local fairs or from vendors along beaches.
4. Mote con Huesillo – A Refreshing Drink
A unique Chile street food experience isn’t complete without Mote con Huesillo. This refreshing drink consists of dried peaches (huesillo) rehydrated in sweet syrup and mixed with cooked wheat (mote). Served ice-cold, it’s the perfect refreshment on a hot day.
Where to Try: Widely available in summer, especially in Santiago’s parks.
5. Chorrillana – Chile’s Ultimate Comfort Food
Originally from Valparaíso, chorrillana is a dish of French fries topped with sautéed onions, sliced beef, and fried eggs. It’s a favorite among locals and best enjoyed in a group.
Where to Try: Popular in local bars and where to eat in Chile, especially in Valparaíso.
6. Choripán – The Chilean Street BBQ
A favorite at gatherings and football matches, choripán is a grilled chorizo sausage served in a crispy bread roll. It’s often topped with pebre or mayonnaise.
Where to Try: Commonly found at food stands near stadiums and parks.
7. Ceviche – A Taste of Chile’s Coastline
Chile’s long coastline provides an abundance of fresh seafood, making ceviche a popular traditional Chilean food. Chilean ceviche typically features white fish, marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, cilantro, and chili peppers.
Where to Try: Beachside stalls in La Serena, Viña del Mar, and Antofagasta.
8. Milcao – A Traditional Potato Pancake
Hailing from the Chiloé Archipelago, milcao is a potato-based snack that combines grated raw and mashed cooked potatoes. It can be fried, baked, or even steamed.
Where to Try: Markets in southern Chile, especially in Chiloé.
Final Thoughts
Chile street food is a delicious way to experience Chilean cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in a completo, sipping on mote con huesillo, or enjoying a plate of chorrillana, these must-try Chilean dishes capture the heart and soul of traditional Chilean food. Next time you visit, be sure to explore the best street food in Chile and taste the authentic flavors that make Chilean cuisine so special.
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