47 Delicious Latin Recipes to Enjoy
Latin foods showcase the rich and flavorful traditions of Latin American cuisine, highlighting ingredients like fresh herbs, spices, and vibrant produce.
Each idea brings a taste of Latin culture, from savory mains to sweet desserts that bring families together.
Bold and colorful, these meals add excitement and variety to the table.
Birria Tacos
Birria tacos invite you into a world of rich flavors and comforting warmth.
Picture tender, slow-cooked meat steeped in spices that dance on your palate, all wrapped in soft tortillas.
A dip into the savory broth adds an extra layer of satisfaction that warms the soul.
These tacos are not just a meal; they’re an experience to savor with loved ones around the table.
Every bite offers a delightful journey through traditional Mexican cuisine, leaving you craving more long after the last taco is gone.
Pastel de Choclo
Pastel de choclo invites you to experience a comforting blend of flavors that warms the heart.
This traditional Chilean dish features a delightful corn topping, which adds a touch of sweetness to the savory filling beneath.
Ground meat, often combined with olives and hard-boiled eggs, creates an inviting layer that surprises your taste buds with every forkful.
The golden crust forms as it bakes, offering both texture and visual appeal that draws everyone in at mealtime.
Dominican Pollo Guisado (Chicken Stew)
Dominican pollo guisado is a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly.
Tender chicken simmers in a rich, flavorful sauce made from tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices that dance together to create an inviting aroma.
This stew often features hints of garlic and onion, giving it depth while fresh herbs add brightness to every spoonful.
Served alongside rice or fried plantains, it becomes a meal that brings people together around the table for laughter and stories.
Pernil (Puerto Rican Roast Pork)
Pernil captures the essence of Puerto Rican cuisine with its rich flavors and tender meat.
This roast pork dish features a crispy skin that crackles as you slice into it, revealing juicy, marinated layers infused with garlic and spices.
Each piece carries a hint of citrus from the marinade, which adds brightness to the savory profile.
Often served at gatherings or celebrations, pernil brings people together around the table for shared moments and laughter.
The aroma wafting through your home while it cooks is simply irresistible; it's like an invitation to savor something truly special with loved ones.
Caldo de Res
Caldo de res is a heartwarming beef soup that wraps you in comfort with every spoonful.
This dish brings together tender chunks of beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered to perfection.
You can almost feel the warmth radiating from the pot as it cooks slowly, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around.
Enjoying a bowl of caldo de res feels like receiving a warm hug on a chilly day; it's nourishing and satisfying in every way.
Picadillo
Picadillo is a dish that tells tales of tradition and warmth, inviting you to savor its rich history.
This flavorful mix often features ground meat, tomatoes, and spices that dance together in a harmony.
You might notice hints of olives or raisins adding an unexpected sweetness that balances the savory notes beautifully.
Served over rice or wrapped in tortillas, picadillo becomes more than just a meal; it transforms into an experience shared with loved ones around the table.
The aroma wafting through your kitchen can transport you to vibrant streets filled with laughter and life, reminding us all how food connects us deeply to our roots.
Ropa Vieja (Cubas National Dish)
Ropa vieja brings a taste of Cuba right to your plate, capturing the essence of its rich culture and history.
This dish features tender shredded beef simmered in a savory sauce made from tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices that create an unforgettable aroma.
Imagine enjoying it with fluffy rice or crispy fried plantains; the combination is simply mouthwatering.
Families often gather around to share this beloved meal, making it a centerpiece for celebrations and everyday dinners.
With every forkful, you’ll experience warmth that feels like home cooked by generations past.
Bistec Encebollado (Steak & Onions)
Bistec encebollado captures the essence of hearty comfort food with its rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Tender steak, marinated to perfection, meets sweet, caramelized onions that add a sweetness to each mouthful.
This dish is often served alongside fluffy rice or warm tortillas, creating a perfect balance on your plate.
The aroma wafting from the skillet can make anyone’s stomach rumble in anticipation; it’s hard not to feel excited when this meal is on the table.
Sharing stories over bistec encebollado can turn any gathering into a memorable feast filled with laughter and warmth.
Birria (Mexican Beef Stew)
Birria invites you to experience the rich flavors of Mexico with every spoonful.
This savory beef stew, often slow-cooked to perfection, features tender meat bathed in a fragrant blend of spices like cumin and oregano.
The vibrant red color comes from a mix of dried chilies that add depth and warmth, creating an aroma that fills your kitchen with comfort.
Traditionally served with warm tortillas or rice, birria offers a nice way to gather around the table and enjoy hearty meals together.
Each bowl tells its own tale of family traditions and culinary heritage waiting for you to savor them all over again.
Crock Pot Barbacoa Pork
Crock pot barbacoa pork brings a comforting warmth to any gathering.
The slow-cooked meat absorbs rich spices, creating a mouthwatering flavor that dances on your palate.
Tender and juicy, this dish pairs beautifully with fresh tortillas or fluffy rice, making it versatile for any meal.
Friends and family will love the ease of preparation; simply set it in the morning and return to a feast in the evening.
Sharing stories over this hearty dish feels like wrapping everyone in a warm hug, turning every meal into an occasion worth remembering.
Peruvian Chicken (Pollo a la Brasa)
Peruvian chicken, or pollo a la brasa, is a dish that wraps you in its warm embrace with every bite.
This succulent roasted chicken gets its rich flavor from a marinade of spices like garlic, cumin, and paprika.
The magic happens when it's cooked over an open flame or in a rotisserie oven; the skin becomes perfectly crispy while the meat stays juicy and tender inside.
Served alongside tangy green sauce made from cilantro and jalapeños, it adds an exciting kick that dances on your taste buds.
Asopao de Camarones (Shrimp and Rice Soup)
Asopao de camarones offers a warm embrace on chilly days, inviting you to savor its comforting essence.
This hearty shrimp and rice soup combines the ocean's bounty with the rich flavors of spices, creating a dish that feels like home.
Imagine sitting down to a bowl filled with plump shrimp nestled in tender rice, all enveloped in a savory broth that dances on your taste buds.
The vibrant colors from fresh vegetables add not just beauty but also depth to each spoonful you take.
Sancocho (Latin Beef & Vegetable Stew)
Puerto Rican sancocho is a hearty stew that combines tender beef with a variety of root vegetables, creating a rich and flavorful dish.
The slow-cooked meat and vegetables meld together, resulting in a comforting meal that's perfect for any occasion.
It's an ideal choice for those seeking a taste of the Caribbean in a single bowl.
Pollo Asado
Pollo asado features chicken marinated in a blend of citrus juices and Latin spices, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a vibrant flavor.
The marinade imparts a beautiful color and depth, making the chicken both visually appealing and delicious.
This versatile dish can be grilled, roasted, or pan-seared, allowing for flexibility in preparation.
It's a must-try for anyone looking to explore the rich tastes of Latin American cuisine.
Arroz con Pollo
Arroz con pollo invites you to savor a blend of tender chicken and seasoned rice, all simmered together to create a comforting dish.
The vibrant colors of saffron or turmeric give the rice a warm golden hue, while vegetables like peas and bell peppers add freshness and crunch.
Each mouthful is filled with rich flavors that transport you straight to the heart of Latin cuisine.
This dish has roots in various cultures, showcasing its versatility across different kitchens worldwide.
Sharing it with loved ones brings warmth and joy, making every meal feel special as stories unfold around the table.
Vaca Frita (Cuban Crispy Shredded Beef)
Vaca frita captures the essence of Cuban cuisine with its crispy, flavorful shredded beef.
This dish combines marinated flank steak, slow-cooked until tender and then pan-fried to achieve a crunch.
The vibrant mix of garlic, lime juice, and spices brings a zesty brightness that dances on your palate.
Served alongside sautéed onions and fresh lime wedges, it offers an inviting aroma that draws everyone in for a taste.
Enjoying vaca frita is more than just eating; it's about sharing moments filled with laughter and warmth around the table with loved ones.
Asopao de Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken Stew)
Asopao de pollo is a beloved Puerto Rican chicken stew.
It's a blend of tender chicken, rich broth, and hearty rice that makes it a favorite for gatherings.
The magic lies in the spices, cumin, oregano, and bay leaves mingle to create an aromatic experience that fills your kitchen with inviting scents.
Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes add color while enhancing the flavor profile beautifully.
Moqueca
Moqueca is a delightful Brazilian dish that showcases the rich flavors of the sea.
This stew combines fresh fish, shrimp, and an array of colorful vegetables simmered in coconut milk and palm oil.
The aroma fills your kitchen as it cooks, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
A sprinkle of cilantro adds a refreshing touch that brightens every bite while enhancing its tropical essence.
Enjoying moqueca feels like taking a culinary journey to Brazil with each spoonful bursting with warmth and comfort.
Chile Verde
Chile verde offers a burst of flavor that warms the soul.
This dish features tender pieces of meat simmered in a rich, green sauce made from roasted tomatillos and fresh green chilies.
The combination creates an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen, drawing everyone in for a taste.
Enjoying chile verde can be an experience; it pairs beautifully with warm tortillas or rice, adding to its comforting nature.
Each spoonful is like a hug on a plate, perfect for cozy gatherings or quiet evenings at home with loved ones.
Arroz con Gandules
Arroz con gandules is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that combines tender rice with pigeon peas, seasoned with salted pork, sofrito, tomato sauce, and Latin spices.
Often served alongside pernil (roasted pork), it holds the title of Puerto Rico's national dish.
This flavorful rice dish complements a variety of main courses, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Baja Fish Tacos
Baja fish tacos bring a burst of sunshine to your plate.
Fresh, flaky fish is coated in a light batter and fried to crispy perfection, offering a crunch with every bite.
Topped with zesty cabbage slaw and drizzled with creamy sauce, these tacos balance flavors beautifully.
The warmth of corn tortillas wraps everything together, creating an inviting package that feels like summer by the beach.
Tostones (AKA Patacones)
Tostones, also known as patacones, are a treat that brings a taste of Latin America right to your plate.
These crispy plantain slices offer a satisfying crunch that can elevate any meal or snack time.
The process begins with green plantains being sliced and fried until golden brown, then flattened and fried again for that perfect texture.
Tostones pair wonderfully with garlic sauce or spicy dips, making them an irresistible addition to gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Carne Picada (Best Taco / Burrito Meat)
Carne picada brings a burst of flavor that makes tacos and burritos unforgettable.
This finely chopped beef is seasoned to perfection, allowing the spices to mingle beautifully with the meat's natural richness.
When cooked slowly, it becomes incredibly tender, making every bite melt in your mouth.
The versatility of carne picada means you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings and salsas for a personal touch.
Whether you're hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish adds warmth and satisfaction to any meal shared around the table.
Albondigas Soup (Mexican Meatball Soup)
Albondigas soup features tender meatballs made from ground beef or pork, seasoned with herbs and spices.
Fresh vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and potatoes swim in a rich tomato broth that wraps around each ingredient with a loving embrace.
A sprinkle of cilantro adds brightness, while lime juice offers a zesty kick that elevates the flavors beautifully.
Tacos Gobernador
Tacos Gobernador offer a twist on traditional tacos that you won't want to miss.
Filled with succulent shrimp, these treats come alive with flavors from fresh herbs and spices.
Each taco is topped with melted cheese, adding a creamy richness that perfectly complements the seafood.
Enjoying them is an experience in itself; the warm tortillas wrap around all those tasty ingredients, making every bite satisfying and comforting.
Whether at a street stand or your kitchen table, Tacos Gobernador promise to elevate any meal into something truly special.
Flank Steak Fajitas
Flank steak fajitas bring a burst of flavor that can brighten any meal.
Juicy strips of flank steak, marinated in a blend of spices, sizzle on the grill, releasing mouthwatering aromas that fill the air.
Colorful bell peppers and onions join in for a crunch and sweetness, creating an irresistible medley.
Wrapping everything in warm tortillas allows you to enjoy each ingredient's taste while adding your favorite toppings like fresh salsa or creamy guacamole.
This dish invites you to gather around the table with loved ones for an unforgettable dining experience filled with laughter and good food.
Guasacaca (Venezuelan Guacamole)
Guasacaca brings a fresh twist to the traditional avocado dip, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Venezuela.
This zesty sauce combines ripe avocados with tangy vinegar, fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley, and a hint of garlic that dances on your palate.
The result is a creamy yet refreshing accompaniment that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or crispy plantains.
You might find yourself reaching for it as an everyday staple, adding flair to tacos or sandwiches.
Pico de Gallo
Pico de gallo brings a burst of freshness to any meal.
This vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapeños creates a lively salsa that dances on your taste buds.
The crispness of the vegetables pairs beautifully with chips or as a topping for tacos and grilled meats.
Each ingredient contributes its own flavor while working together harmoniously, making every bite feel refreshing and satisfying.
Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet evening at home, pico de gallo adds that extra zing to elevate your dining experience.
Homemade Sofrito
Homemade sofrito is a culinary treasure that adds depth and flavor to countless dishes.
This vibrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, onions, and peppers transforms ordinary meals into something extraordinary.
When you prepare it yourself, the aroma fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort that store-bought versions simply can’t match.
Using seasonal ingredients allows you to customize the taste to suit your preferences or what’s available in your garden or local market.
Mango Salsa
Mango salsa bursts with a refreshing sweetness that instantly brightens up any dish.
Juicy mangoes blend beautifully with zesty lime juice, creating a balance of flavors.
Adding diced red onion and crisp cilantro introduces an aromatic touch, making every scoop exciting.
This vibrant mix pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish.
Enjoying it as a dip alongside tortilla chips brings an irresistible crunch that keeps you coming back for more.
Habichuelas Guisadas (Puerto Rican Stewed Beans)
Habichuelas guisadas invites you to savor the rich flavors of Puerto Rican cuisine.
These stewed beans simmer gently with a blend of spices, creating an aromatic dish that feels like home.
The combination of sofrito, a mix of garlic, onions, and peppers, infuses each bite with depth and character.
Served alongside rice or as part of a hearty meal, this dish offers nourishment that warms both body and soul.
Easy Cheesy Taco Skillet
Picture a cozy evening where dinner comes together in one pan, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
The easy cheesy taco skillet delivers bold flavors with minimal fuss, allowing you to savor every moment without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ground beef or turkey mingles with zesty spices and colorful veggies, all bubbling away under a gooey layer of melted cheese that beckons you closer.
This dish invites everyone to dig in family-style, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
You’ll appreciate how effortlessly it satisfies cravings while keeping cleanup simple and stress-free.
Carne Guisada
Carne guisada brings a warm, comforting embrace to the table.
This hearty dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich sauce, infused with spices that awaken your senses.
The aroma alone can transport you to a cozy kitchen where family gathers and stories are shared over steaming bowls.
Each spoonful offers depth and flavor, showcasing the love poured into every ingredient from fresh vegetables to savory herbs.
Enjoying carne guisada is more than just satisfying hunger; it’s about savoring moments filled with laughter and connection around good food.
Ground Beef Tacos
Ground beef tacos are packed of flavor to any meal.
Juicy, seasoned meat wrapped in warm tortillas creates a comforting experience that’s hard to resist.
Toppings like fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and creamy cheese add layers of taste and texture that make each taco feel special.
You can easily customize them with your favorite salsas or spices for an extra kick.
Taco Casserole
Taco casserole brings a twist to your dinner table, combining all the flavors you love in a warm, comforting dish.
Layers of seasoned ground beef mingle with zesty salsa and creamy cheese, creating a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist.
Corn tortillas add texture and heartiness, making every serving satisfying.
You can easily customize this meal by adding your favorite toppings like jalapeños or fresh cilantro for an extra kick.
Refried Beans
Refried beans is a staple in many kitchens.
Their creamy texture and rich flavor can elevate tacos, burritos, or even simple rice dishes.
Packed with protein and fiber, these beans offer nourishment that satisfies hunger while being easy on the wallet.
You might enjoy how versatile they are; whether spread on toast for breakfast or used as a dip at gatherings, they fit right in anywhere.
Each spoonful invites you to savor their heartiness while appreciating the culinary traditions that have passed them down through generations.
Pinchos de Pollo (Puerto Rican Chicken Skewers)
Pinchos de pollo brings a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds.
These chicken skewers, marinated in a blend of garlic, spices, and citrus juices, offer a balance between savory and tangy.
Grilled to perfection over an open flame or hot coals, they develop a smoky aroma that invites you to take the first bite.
Served with vibrant dipping sauces or fresh sides like rice and beans, these skewers make any gathering feel festive.
Salsa Verde (Tomatillo Sauce)
Salsa verde, a zesty tomatillo sauce, brings a burst of freshness to your meals.
This vibrant green condiment combines the tangy flavor of tomatillos with cilantro and lime, creating an irresistible blend that dances on your taste buds.
The bright acidity cuts through rich dishes beautifully, enhancing everything from tacos to grilled meats.
You might find yourself reaching for it as a dip for chips or drizzling it over roasted vegetables for an extra kick.
With its lively taste and versatility in the kitchen, salsa verde is sure to become a staple in your culinary adventures.
Salsa Taquera (Chili de Arbol Salsa)
Salsa taquera brings a lively kick to any dish, capturing the essence of traditional Mexican flavors.
This vibrant chili de arbol salsa showcases a perfect blend of heat and depth, making it an exciting addition to tacos, grilled meats, or even as a zesty dip for chips.
The rich red color hints at its bold flavor profile that can awaken your taste buds in an instant.
Fresh ingredients like garlic and lime juice elevate this salsa further, providing layers of freshness that balance the spice beautifully.
You might find yourself reaching for this sauce time and again; it adds character to meals while inviting everyone at the table to savor something truly special together.
Chili Lime Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa
Chili lime shrimp tacos with mango salsa bring a burst of flavor to your plate.
Juicy shrimp, marinated in zesty chili and lime, sizzle perfectly in a warm tortilla.
Each taco is topped with vibrant mango salsa that adds sweetness and freshness, making every bite refreshing.
You can feel the sunshine on your taste buds as the tangy sauce dances alongside the savory shrimp.
Enjoy these delightful tacos at any gathering or simply for a fun weeknight dinner; they promise to elevate your meal experience!
Taco Soup
Taco soup brings together the best flavors of a taco in a comforting bowl.
Picture hearty beans, seasoned meat, and vibrant vegetables mingling in a rich broth that warms you from the inside out.
This dish is wonderfully adaptable; you can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry or your taste preferences.
Top it off with crispy tortilla chips, creamy avocado slices, or shredded cheese for an extra layer of satisfaction that makes every spoonful exciting.
Mexican Rice Casserole
A warm, hearty dish awaits with the Mexican rice casserole, inviting you to savor its rich flavors.
Layers of fluffy rice mingle with seasoned ground beef or chicken, enveloped in a blend of spices that awaken your taste buds.
Colorful bell peppers and sweet corn add a fresh crunch while melted cheese blankets the top, creating an irresistible golden crust.
This casserole shines during gatherings or cozy family dinners when comfort food is essential.
Dive into this delicious creation and let each mouthful transport you to a festive fiesta!
Cilantro Lime Rice (Chipotle Rice Recipe)
Cilantro lime rice brings a burst of freshness to any meal.
The zesty flavor of lime dances with the earthy notes of cilantro, creating a harmonious blend that elevates simple dishes.
You can easily prepare this delightful side in your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy it alongside tacos or grilled chicken.
A hint of garlic adds depth, while the fluffy texture makes each forkful satisfying and light.
Carne Mechada
Carne mechada brings a hearty and comforting vibe to any meal.
This dish features tender, shredded beef that simmers in a rich sauce, often infused with spices like cumin and garlic.
The flavors meld beautifully, creating an experience that warms the soul.
Served alongside rice or arepas, it invites you to savor every mouthful while enjoying its robust taste.
A true delight for those who appreciate home-cooked meals with depth and character awaits you in this traditional favorite.
Caldo de Pollo
Caldo de pollo warms the heart and soul, offering a comforting embrace in every bowl.
This traditional chicken soup combines tender pieces of chicken with vibrant vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and corn.
The broth simmers gently, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully together while filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around.
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime adds brightness that elevates each spoonful into something truly special.
Cuban Mojo Pork
Cuban mojo pork captures the essence of vibrant flavors and culinary tradition.
Marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, citrus juices, and spices, this dish infuses every piece with a bold punch that excites the palate.
Slow-cooked to perfection, it becomes tender and juicy while absorbing all those wonderful seasonings.
Pairing well with rice or plantains adds an authentic touch that transports you straight to Cuba's lively streets.
Surf and Turf Nachos
Surf and turf nachos combine the best of land and sea, bringing a twist to your snack game.
Imagine crispy tortilla chips piled high with succulent shrimp and tender steak, all smothered in melted cheese that stretches with every bite.
Topped off with fresh guacamole, zesty salsa, and a sprinkle of jalapeños, these nachos promise an explosion of flavors that dance on your palate.
They invite everyone to dig in together, especially when they gathering in front of the TV in cozy nights.
Truc Tran (Kris)
Expertise
Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Asian Food Content Creator, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert
Education
Program: Diploma of Hospitality (Commercial Cookery)
Focus: The culinary program included a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, a Certificate IV in Kitchen Management, and a Diploma of Hospitality Management. This education provided a comprehensive blend of theoretical and practical training in finance, sustainability, diversity, and human resources management.
Program: Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
Focus: Explored global cuisines, and developed entrepreneurial abilities to manage a successful food business, along with acquiring essential language, math, computer, and communication skills for success.
Program: Certificate of Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef
Focus: Master traditional and modern Vietnamese cooking techniques.
Truc Tran, or Kris, is an accomplished food editor with extensive training in hospitality and culinary arts, including a deep focus on Vietnamese cuisine from various prestigious institutions. She possesses over nine years of experience, developing her expertise in global cuisines and blending traditional Vietnamese cooking with contemporary trends to create engaging and educational content.
She also has a rich educational background, including a Diploma of Hospitality from TasTAFE and a Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts from Kendall College’s Sydney branch. It enables her to offer unique insights into meal planning, recipe development, and food culture, making her articles and cooking videos both informative and appealing.