Quito Street Food Essentials – All You Need to Know

Quito, Ecuador is known for its street food options, and there is no better way to learn about local culture than to start your journey with traditional specialties. The streets of Quito offer tasty and unique dishes that you won’t find any other place in the world. Whether you are a foodie, searching for a unique experience, or an adventure-seeker, you will be sure to find something delicious!

There are a variety of classic street foods to choose from when visiting Quito. Locals and travelers alike always love to sink their teeth into the classic street food of Quito! Here are some of the must-try street foods on your next visit:

Encebollado

Known as the unofficial national dish of Ecuador, this delicious meal is a must-try. It’s made up of thick, cooked fish served over a bed of yucca, with finely chopped onion and tomato, as well as a special chilli olive oil and lime. This yummy dish can be sampled around Quito’s old quarter, so take a walk around El Centro Histórico and give it a try!

Chochos

This classic Ecuadorian dish is made up of boiled beans mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. Locals top it off with a creamy aioli-style sauce, making it a great snack or light dinner. Look for it around the old quarter and markets.

Fritada

Fritada is a classic Ecuadorian dish that looks a bit like pulled pork, but it’s actually made of shredded pork belly slow-cooked in a mixture of fresh herbs, onions, garlic and carrots. The pork is then fried in lard or a vegetable oil blend until perfectly crispy on the outside, while remaining moist and tender on the inside. You can get Fritada from little carts on the corner or from street vendors in the old quarter.

Cuy (Guinea Pig)

Cuy is the traditional dish of countries like Colombia and Ecuador, made of roasted guinea pig served with a selection of salads and sauces. It sounds strange for many western visitors, but this tasty dish has been enjoyed by locals for centuries! You can find it in some restaurants around the old quarter.

Empanadas de Viento

This popular Ecuadorian snack consists of simple dough filled with cheese and fried until golden brown. You’ll find them in markets and street carts all around the old quarter. They are pretty cheap, delicious and easy to carry around – perfect for those who want to try some traditional Ecuadorian snacks without sitting down for a meal!

Humitas

This dish consists of corn meal wrapped in a banana leaf and boiled or steamed until done. The meal can also include spices like onion and herbs, as well as pork or cheese, depending on regional tastes. It’s cheap and usually served as a street food snack and can be found around the old quarter.

Melcocha

Melcocha is a sweet candy made of sugar cane juice boiled until it thickens into a syrupy consistency. It’s then rolled into sticks or cones and served as a street food treat. It’s easy to find in any market around Quito’s old quarter.

Churros & Chocolate

You can’t leave Quito without trying churros and chocolate! This classic European street food is made with deep-fried batter dipped in sugar and served with hot chocolate sauce for dipping. It’s usually eaten as a mid-afternoon snack or dessert. Churros can be found in most markets and bakeries around the old quarter, though it is worth keeping an eye out especially around Parque La Carolina where they are especially famous.

Conclusion

Quito has so many delicious street food options that it is difficult to narrow down just one or two favorites. No matter what type of food you’re looking for, you’ll find something amazing to try in Quito! From cheese empanadas to melted chocolate churros and guinea pig recipes handed down through generations, there is something special for everyone in Quito’s old quarter. So, the next time you’re looking for an adventure in Quito, make sure to explore some of its delicious street food offerings!

If you’re looking for something more interactive have a look at this food tour experience where you can take part in an exploration of the gastronomy highlights of Quito’s Old Town accompanied by a local guide who will show you all the must-try delicacies – including traditional dishes that can only be found there! Book your tour now – because this opportunity won’t last forever!