Cuisine
South American recipes
South American recipes span the diverse cuisines of a vast continent, from the Andes to the Amazon, bringing together indigenous traditions with Spanish, Portuguese, African and other influences. Families turn to these dishes for weekend gatherings, celebrations, and comforting midweek meals that connect them to their heritage. Whether you're making flaky Empanadas Salteñas filled with spiced meat or baking golden Sopa Paraguaya, a savoury cornbread from Paraguay, these recipes come straight from real home kitchens where they've been lovingly prepared and passed down through generations, each one telling its own delicious story.
4 recipes preserved by Recipe Filer cooks. Free to read, free to share.
South American cooking questions
What are the most popular South American dishes to try at home?
Empanadas are amongst the most beloved, with variations across countries like Argentina's beef-filled versions and Bolivia's Salteñas. Other favourites include Sopa Paraguaya (a savoury cornbread), Brazilian feijoada, Peruvian ceviche, and Colombian arepas. Each offers distinct regional flavours and cooking techniques.
Can I freeze empanadas and other South American pastries?
Yes, empanadas freeze excellently either baked or unbaked. Freeze unbaked ones on a tray before transferring to bags, then bake from frozen adding extra time. Baked empanadas can be reheated from frozen. Sopa Paraguaya also freezes well when wrapped tightly in portions.
What ingredients are essential for South American cooking?
Stock your pantry with cumin, paprika, oregano, and ají chilli peppers. Cornmeal (for arepas and Sopa Paraguaya), black beans, and fresh coriander are crucial. Many recipes feature beef, cheese, onions, and tomatoes. Latin American grocers supply speciality items like plantains and yuca.
