Introduction: Panamanian Cuisine
Panamanian cuisine is a mix of African, Spanish, and Native American influences, offering a wide range of flavors, textures, and aromas. With the Caribbean Sea on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, seafood is a significant ingredient in Panamanian cuisine. Panama’s seafood is caught daily and delivered fresh to local markets and restaurants, making it easy to find a variety of seafood dishes.
Seafood in Panamanian Cuisine
Seafood is an essential part of Panamanian cuisine and has been so since the pre-colonial era. Panama’s location between two oceans is a major contributor to the abundance and diversity of seafood in the country. The traditional fishing methods used by the Indigenous communities have also influenced the Panamanian seafood cuisine.
Panamanian seafood is known for its freshness and its incorporation of local ingredients. Many popular Panamanian dishes are seafood-based, including ceviche, corvina al ajillo, and sopa de marisco.
Popular Seafood Dishes in Panama
Panama’s seafood cuisine has a wide range of dishes that are popular both locally and internationally. These dishes range from raw to cooked, from spicy to mild, and from simple to complex. Some of the most popular seafood dishes in Panama include ceviche, corvina al ajillo, and sopa de marisco.
Ceviche: A Traditional Dish
Ceviche is a popular seafood dish in Panama that can be found in most seafood restaurants. It is a simple dish made with raw fish, onions, peppers, cilantro, and lime juice. The combination of these ingredients provides a refreshing and tangy flavor. Ceviche can be made with different types of fish, including corvina, snapper, and shrimp. It is usually served as an appetizer or a light meal.
Corvina al Ajillo: A Classic Seafood Recipe
Corvina al ajillo is a classic seafood recipe that is popular in Panama. It is a dish made with corvina fish cooked with garlic, butter, and white wine. The garlic and white wine provide a distinct flavor to the dish, and the butter adds a creamy texture. Corvina al ajillo is usually served with rice, plantains, or yucca.
Sopa de Marisco: A Delicious Seafood Soup
Sopa de marisco is a delicious seafood soup that is popular in Panama. It is a hearty soup made with a variety of seafood, including shrimp, mussels, and fish. The seafood is cooked with vegetables, such as onions, peppers, and tomatoes, and seasoned with herbs and spices, such as thyme and bay leaves. Sopa de marisco is usually served with bread or crackers and is a common dish during the Christmas season.
In conclusion, Panama’s seafood cuisine offers a wide range of dishes that incorporate fresh and local ingredients. Some of the most popular seafood dishes in Panama include ceviche, corvina al ajillo, and sopa de marisco. Whether you are a seafood lover or a food enthusiast, trying these dishes is a must when visiting Panama.
