TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Ecuadorian Foods
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Llapingachos are typical Ecuadorian potato patties that are often served with a spicy peanut sauce on the side. They consist of cheese and mashed potatoes. The combination of those ingredients is flattened and cooked on a griddle until it develops a golden-brown color.
Llapingachos are traditionally served as a side dish along with avocadoes, salads, fried eggs, pork, and chorizo.
Serve with
MOST ICONIC Llapingacho
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Arroz con camarones is a dish that is popular throughout Latin America, especially in Peru, Ecuador and Mexico. It consists of rice that is cooked in a flavorful shrimp broth, combined with shrimp, peppers, tomatoes, and onions. The dish is usually seasoned with cumin, garlic, and achiote, with the addition of finely chopped parsley used for garnishing.
Arroz con camarones can be served with numerous accompaniments such as lime wedges, hot sauce, avocado slices, or fried plantains.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Encebollado is the national dish of Ecuador, a fish soup that is characterized by a large amount of onions. Very useful in curing hangovers, the dish is made with fresh tuna meat, cassava root, tomatoes, onions, coriander, and various spices. Tomatoes, onions, chili, coriander, and cumin form a pungent mix and a base for the soup, called sofrito, while pickled onions go either on top of encebollado or into it, giving it its name that is literally translated to onioned.
The soup originates from Ecuador's coast during the time when the fishers were out at sea and made the soup out of necessity. As they had some spices, and fresh fish was readily available, encebollado was created and became widely consumed throughout the country.
MOST ICONIC Encebollado
View moreFanesca is a unique Ecuadorian soup characterized by its thick consistency, consisting of fresh Andean grains, beans, peas, and lentils, combined with salt cod cooked in milk. There should be 12 different grains and beans in the soup, symbolizing the 12 disciples, as the soup is prepared only during the Easter festivities.
Fanesca is traditionally served in round bowls, garnished with fried plantains, parsley, and hard-boiled eggs.
MOST ICONIC Fanesca
Caldo de bolas is a traditional dumpling soup originating from Ecuador, and it's also popular in the Tumbes region in Peru. In order to prepare the dumplings, cooked ripe plantains are mashed, mixed with eggs and shaped into a ball. The dumplings are filled with a combination of ground beef, garlic, peanut butter, onions, and bell peppers.
The soup is made with a combination of oil, onions, bell peppers, stock, cumin, tomatoes, salt, and hot peppers. The dumplings are then dropped into the simmering broth and cooked until tender. Once done, caldo de bolas is usually garnished with chopped coriander and served hot.
MOST ICONIC Caldo de bolas
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Traditional Ecuadorian fritada is a dish which consists of diced pork boiled down in water and left to fry in its own drippings. Pork is generously seasoned, while onions and garlic are usually cooked alongside the meat. Depending on the region, potatoes, plantains, hominy, fava beans, or corn can be served as side dishes accompanying tender and juicy chunks of pork.
Fritada has been eaten in Ecuador for centuries, and it can be found in many traditional restaurants and typical roadside eateries, popularly called huequitos.
MOST ICONIC Fritada
View moreMAIN INGREDIENTS
Typically associated with Ecuador and the Peruvian region of Piura, chifles are thinly sliced, fried green plantains. They can be sliced crosswise or lengthwise, and while homemade varieties are usually sold as a convenient and portable street food item, they also come in form of factory-produced snacks that are available in supermarkets.
Chifles are typically sided with charqui - shredded dried and salted meat - or other snacks. Similar versions of fried plantains are found in many Latin American countries such as Guatemala, Cuba, and Puerto Rico.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Pan de yuca is a traditional bread consisting of cassava flour, eggs, and cheese. It is usually shaped into small, round balls. The bread is popular throughout Colombia and Ecuador, although there are variations on pan de yuca throughout Latin America.
It makes for a delicious warm appetizer or an afternoon snack, preferably paired with a cup of hot chocolate, tea, or coffee.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
Cachapa, chorreada, arepa de choclo, güirila, toquera, tortilla de choclo, and tortilla changa, are all names that describe a Latin American corn dish that can be categorized as either a pancake, tortilla, or flatbread, depending on the country.
It can be made only of corn or have additional ingredients like sugar, water, milk, salt, butter, cheese, and oil. They are typically prepared by street vendors and are either fried or griddled (in Nicaragua, they’re cooked between two banana leaves!) and characterized by a sweet-savory flavor.
MAIN INGREDIENTS
This classic Ecuadorian soup is made with a combination of onions, garlic, potatoes, annatto, cumin, milk, and queso fresco. The soup is simmered until the ingredients become fully cooked, and the cheese is then mixed in until it melts. Locro de papa is served hot, topped with chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and ají hot sauce, which is the reason why this hearty soup is especially popular on colder days.
If desired, choclo corn can also be added to the soup for extra flavor. The word locro is derived from the Quechua word ruqru, which means stew, while papa means potato.
OTHER VARIATIONS OF Locro
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Ecuadorian Food Producers
Paccari is an Ecuadorian chocolate company that has set new standards in the world of fine chocolate. Founded in Quito in 2002 by Santiago Peralta and Carla Barboto, Paccari—meaning "nature" in the Kichwa language—is more than a brand; it is a philosophy that unites quality, ethics, and deep respect for the earth.
From the very beginning, Paccari has been committed to producing 100% organic chocolate, free from milk, soy, gluten, chemicals, and GMOs. Their "tree to bar" model ensures full control over every step of the process—from cultivating the prized Nacional cacao to the final product.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2019, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012
International Chocolate Awards - Bronze
2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015
BEST Paccari Chocolates
Noel Verde is a craft chocolate maker dedicated to producing high-quality bean-to-bar chocolate with a focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Using carefully selected cacao beans, they create rich and flavorful chocolates that highlight the unique characteristics of each origin.
Their commitment to quality and artisanal craftsmanship ensures an authentic and delightful chocolate experience.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2024
International Chocolate Awards - Bronze
2024
BEST Noel Verde Chocolates
AWARDS
NYIOOC - Gold
2023
Flos Olei - The Best
2024
BEST Aceites Almenara Olive Oils
Conexión Chocolate, based in Quito, Ecuador, produces premium chocolate made exclusively from Ecuadorian Arriba Nacional cacao beans. The company emphasizes direct relationships with local farmers and focuses on sustainable, organic farming practices.
They offer a range of products, including chocolate bars, couverture, and cocoa powder.
AWARDS
Academy of Chocolate - Silver
2018, 2017
Academy of Chocolate - Bronze
2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
BEST Conexión Chocolate Chocolates
AWARDS
Academy of Chocolate - Silver
2018, 2017
Academy of Chocolate - Bronze
2022, 2018, 2017, 2016
BEST Hoja Verde Chocolate Chocolates
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Bronze
2023
BEST Huma Chocolate Chocolates
Llankhay Chocolate is a Quito-based chocolate producer that specializes in high-quality, artisanal chocolate. They use locally sourced cocoa beans from various regions of Ecuador, known for their rich biodiversity, which contributes to the distinct flavor profiles of their chocolates.
Llankhay Chocolate is involved in sustainable practices, focusing on ethical sourcing and supporting local farmers.
AWARDS
Academy of Chocolate - Bronze
2018
BEST Llankhay Chocolate Chocolates
AWARDS
Academy of Chocolate - Bronze
2015
BEST Productos Sks Farms Chocolates
AWARDS
Academy of Chocolate - Bronze
2017
BEST Republica Del Cacao Chocolates
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best Ecuadorian Food Products
Pacari Juniper 60% Dark Chocolate is a distinctive creation that marries the deep, velvety richness of Ecuadorian Arriba Nacional cacao with the aromatic essence of juniper berries. This unique combination offers a harmonious blend of flavors, where the earthy and slightly piney notes of juniper enhance the smooth bitterness of the dark chocolate, resulting in a refined and invigorating taste experience. Crafted with a commitment to purity and sustainability, this chocolate bar contains only organic ingredients: cacao mass, cane sugar, cocoa butter, juniper berries, and sunflower lecithin.
It is free from dairy, gluten, soy, and palm oil, making it suitable for vegan and health-conscious consumers. This chocolate bar is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated treat that combines the depth of dark chocolate with the refreshing zest of juniper.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2019
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2020
Pacari Lemon Verbena 60% is a premium organic dark chocolate bar that harmoniously blends the rich, floral notes of Ecuadorian Arriba Nacional cacao with the refreshing citrus essence of Andean lemon verbena. This unique combination offers a smooth, balanced flavor profile with a subtle herbal brightness, making it both invigorating and indulgent. Crafted with a commitment to purity, this chocolate contains only organic cacao mass, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter, organic lemon verbena essence, and organic sunflower lecithin.
It is free from dairy, gluten, soy, and palm oil, catering to vegan, kosher, and health-conscious consumers. This chocolate bar is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated treat that combines the depth of dark chocolate with the uplifting zest of lemon verbena.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2017, 2015
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2023, 2018, 2016, 2014
Pacari Andean Mint 60% is a premium organic dark chocolate bar that harmoniously blends the rich, floral notes of Ecuadorian Arriba Nacional cacao with the refreshing essence of Andean mint. This unique combination offers a smooth, balanced flavor profile with a subtle herbal brightness, making it both invigorating and indulgent. Crafted with a commitment to purity, this chocolate contains only organic cacao mass, organic cane sugar, organic cocoa butter, organic mint essence, and organic sunflower lecithin.
It is free from dairy, gluten, soy, and palm oil, catering to vegan, kosher, and health-conscious consumers. Pacari's dedication to sustainable practices is evident in their sourcing of cacao from small-scale farmers in Ecuador, ensuring fair trade and environmental responsibility.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2016
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2019, 2018, 2015
International Chocolate Awards - Bronze
2017
Montubia 70% made by Paccari Chocolate is crafted using Arriba Nacional cacao beans, which are a prized variety from Ecuador. This chocolate bar features a 70% cacao content, providing a robust and rich flavor profile. Paccari Chocolate is well-regarded for its commitment to organic and sustainable farming practices, ensuring that their products are both high-quality and environmentally friendly.
The Montubia 70% bar often highlights notes of tropical fruits and hints of spices, making it a unique and exquisite choice for chocolate connoisseurs seeking a taste of Ecuadorian heritage.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2014
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2016, 2015
Paccari Chocolate is known for its commitment to high-quality, organic ingredients and sustainable practices. They produce a variety of chocolate products, including Organic Chocolate Covered Bananas. These treats are made from organically grown bananas coated in rich, dark chocolate.
The chocolate used by Paccari is often sourced from single-origin cacao, ensuring a premium product with unique flavor profiles. The company emphasizes transparency and ethics in its production processes.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2015
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2019, 2018, 2017
AWARDS
NYIOOC - Gold
2023
Pacari Lemongrass 60% is a distinctive organic dark chocolate bar that artfully combines the rich, floral notes of Ecuadorian Arriba Nacional cacao with the zesty brightness of lemongrass. This unique fusion offers a refreshing citrusy flavor complemented by subtle herbal undertones, delivering a sophisticated and invigorating tasting experience. Crafted with a commitment to purity and sustainability, this chocolate bar contains only organic ingredients: cacao mass, cane sugar, cocoa butter, lemongrass, and sunflower lecithin.
It is free from dairy, gluten, soy, palm oil, and GMOs, making it suitable for vegan, kosher, and health-conscious consumers. This chocolate bar is perfect for those seeking a refined treat that combines the depth of dark chocolate with the uplifting zest of lemongrass.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Gold
2012
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2022, 2018, 2017, 2015
International Chocolate Awards - Bronze
2023, 2016
Lacumbia Arauquita 70% is a chocolate bar produced by Paccari Chocolate, a company known for its organic and premium quality chocolates. The chocolate is made from single-origin cacao beans sourced from the Arauquita region, which is celebrated for its distinct and rich cocoa flavors.
Paccari emphasizes sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices, ensuring that the chocolate is organic and ethically produced from bean to bar.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2020, 2019, 2017, 2015, 2014
International Chocolate Awards - Bronze
2018
The product Piura Quemazon 70% made by Paccari Chocolate is a premium dark chocolate crafted from organic ingredients. This chocolate bar is made from fine single-origin cacao beans sourced from the Piura region in Peru, known for its exceptional quality and nuanced flavors.
The "70%" indicates the cocoa content, making it a rich and intense dark chocolate experience. Paccari takes pride in producing chocolate that is not only delicious but also fair trade and sustainably sourced.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2020, 2016, 2014, 2012
International Chocolate Awards - Bronze
2017
International Chocolate Awards - Overall winners
2013
Paccari Yerba Mate chocolate is a delightful blend of rich dark chocolate infused with the earthy essence of yerba mate. This unique combination creates a harmonious balance of deep cacao flavors and the invigorating herbal notes of mate. Sourced from premium Ecuadorian cacao, this chocolate reflects Paccari's commitment to organic and sustainable practices.
Perfect for those seeking a refreshing twist, Paccari Yerba Mate chocolate offers a captivating treat that energizes the senses and elevates the chocolate experience.
AWARDS
International Chocolate Awards - Silver
2022, 2020
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 95 Ecuadorian Foods” list until April 27, 2025, 4,653 ratings were recorded, of which 864 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.