Calentado is a traditional breakfast consisting of last night's leftovers that are simply reheated. It stems from the past, when much of the Colombian population lived in poverty and nothing was wasted. This hearty breakfast usually includes rice, beans, plantains, steak, fried eggs, and arepas.

Some people like to add other ingredients as well, such as sausages or chicharrónes. Nowadays, calentado is typically served on weekends due to the sheer amount of food, and it is recommended to serve it with coffee or a cup of hot chocolate on the side.