Arepas

kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 04:13:

Depends, some Arepas are very taste, de arepa con huevo or cheese arepa, and some are as tasteless as you said, they are made very simple just to acompanied a soup or another dish and if it not eating fresh and hot they can go a bit hard after a cuople of hours.

this reminds me when in Colombia a friend invited my daughter for afternoon tea at her house they gave my daughter arepas with chocolate, she never has tried arepas before, when she came home I asked her about it and she said she liked the chocolate but she didn't like the biscuit :))

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kalder says on Apr 16, 2007, 04:29:

I agree They're bland beyond bland.

Even the cheese ones (which my wife will purr over), lack any real savor.

"kalder- have you ever had a woman?"--Sam Salmon

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 04:38:

The simple ones, yes they are bland and have not taste at all, they taste just like flour, i don't like them either, but the ones with fillings are really nice... in la calera there are various little restaurant that sell arepas de horno fill with cheese i think they are traditional from there, they are delicious, i couldn't stop eating them.

Another thig you really has to know how to make arepas, is an skill really, no matter how much filling you put in it if you don't made the base right forget it..

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jaramillo says on Apr 16, 2007, 04:57:

This kind or arepa is bland. We usually butter them and they are used as contrast to very savory foods such as chorizo.

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 05:36:

Dirtyneedlez, next time you go to Colombia spend sometime reading books about Colombia. If you decide to travel to other countries you will learn that each country has their on way of cooking and the rest of the Latin American countries do not eat the same type of foreign food that dominates the US. You opinion about food in Colombia is directly proportional to your a singular visit, to a single city or region and to a singular experience. I have posted here on pbh several threads about Colombia gastronomy not equal to your experienced palate but way above in better tastes than the cheese stuff. Many Colombian friends won’t eat Mexican food at all, the reason is that the food is not that much different to cause a huge craving for it. This phenomenal seems to be opposite in the states where the predominant food is fast food, therefore it’s understood why someone from the states who has never travel outside the US would find steak ranchero much better that a hamburger. We have bistek a caballo so we do not go crazy about a steak that has a colorful sauce on top of it. We have beans, we have mondongo, we have rice cooked in different ways and we have all types of arepas, some arepas are plain in taste and are prepared to be eating with the main meal as the Italians eat bread

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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raulinho says on Apr 16, 2007, 06:08:

IMHO neither mexican nor colombian food is anything special and I have eaten home cooking ...I suppose you have to be born there to like it. There are other things in Colombia, thankfully, besides the food.Probably for you Colombian guys the food has deep seated childhood memories and I completely understand that ...for me the smell alone of olive oil and seafood stew, morcilla, boquerones brings back really strong memories ...it is more than just food!

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 06:09:

COCINA COLOMBIANA, PLURALIDAD DE SABORES Comer Bien Cocina internacional

COCINA COLOMBIANA, PLURALIDAD DE SABORES Hablar de cocina colombiana es hablar de café; no en vano es, después de Brasil, la segunda productora mundial de esta semilla. Sin embargo, Colombia destaca también por su singular gastronomía que, para crear platos cargados de colorido y sabor, se alimenta de las diferentes culturas que conviven en el país.


El colorido y la riqueza cultural de Colombia llegan también a su cocina, que destaca por su variedad de sabores y por sus grandes aportes calóricos. Pollo, cerdo, arroz, papas, frijoles y sopa son los principales alimentos de la dieta colombiana. Pero estos son sólo una muestra que varía acorde con las regiones de donde provienen los platos.

Colombia pluricultural
Colombia es un crisol de culturas, su población es el resultado de la mezcla entre los españoles y europeos que conquistaron y colonizaron el territorio desde el siglo XVI hasta el XIX, los africanos importados como esclavos hasta comienzos del XIX, la inmigración de árabes y los aborígenes americanos.

La convivencia de culturas diferentes y el mestizaje han dado lugar a una gastronomía que sobresale por su enorme despliegue de sabores y especialidades y que mezcla las influencias de la tradición de la cocina árabe en la costa Atlántica y la española en la región Andina.

Comida por regiones
La mezcla entre las gastronomías de los pueblos asentados en Colombia ha provocado que la comida de este país sea muy regional, es decir, que varíe mucho de una zona a otra.

La cocina de altiplano está representada por el área de Cundinamarca y Boyacá, con platos como el “ajiaco”, una sopa con pollo, patatas y hortalizas que se sirve con maíz y alcaparras; o los tamales, que son una especie de empanadas hechas de masa de harina de maíz y envueltas en hojas de plátano o de mazorca del maíz, y rellenas de longaniza, cerdo y pollo.

La cocina costera disfruta de la abundancia de productos de mar que aportan el Caribe y el Pacífico, con los que se preparan exquisitos platos a partir de pescados y marisco. Como la cazuela de mariscos, unos de los platos más típicos de esta zona, o el cuy asado, un roedor semejante al conejillo de indias que se cocina en Nariño.

La región paisa se caracteriza por su carne asada en un tiesto de barro y servida luego sobre arepas (tortas de maíz seco) calientes; y de las llanuras orientales es típica la ternera a la llanera, los macarrones con pollo y la yuca frita.

Costumbres alimenticias
Cada país tiene sus propias costumbres en cuanto a las horas de las comidas. Mientras en España lo normal es desayunar, comer y cenar (y en algunos casos también almorzar y merendar), en Colombia se sirven sólo dos comidas al día.

Entre las 12:00 y las 14:00 horas se sirve el almuerzo, que consiste generalmente en un plato de sopa, seguida de un “seco”, que es el plato principal, y de una sobremesa o postre, consistente casi siempre en un zumo o una bebida refrescante. Sobre las 18:00 horas, llega la hora de la cena que suele ser muy similar al almuerzo.

Beber en Colombia
Siendo Colombia unos de los principales productores de café del mundo (el primero en suave), es lógico que esta bebida sea la principal. Existen tres formas de tomarlo, según la medida: el “tinto” consiste en una tacita de café negro, el “perico” o “pintao”, que con poca leche, y el café con leche, que es más grande que el perico y lleva más leche.

Otra bebida típica de Colombia es el “agua de panela”, que no es más que azúcar sin refinar derretida en agua caliente, a la que se le suele agregar un poco de zumo de limón.

La cerveza es una de las bebidas alcohólicas más populares, junto con el aguardiente y el ron y, en algunas regiones se pueden encontrar también “guarapo” y “chicha”, licores de baja graduación que se preparan con la fermentación de fruta o maíz en azúcar.

http://www.mundogar.com/ideas/reportaje.asp?ID=14379&MEN_ID=476

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 06:20:

COLOMBIA: PLATOS POR REGIONES Colombia se caracteriza por la amalgama de culturas que pueblan sus tierras. Culturas con una gastronomía propia que hacen de la cocina colombiana una de las más variadas del mundo. Si recorremos sus tierras, nos encontraremos con los platos típicos de cada región, que tienen en común un sabor contundente:

Ajiaco: Es una sopa cuyo principal ingrediente es el pollo y tres variedades de patatas, que se sirve con maíz y alcaparras. Es un plato típico de Bogotá.

Bandeja paisa: Este plato típico de Antioquía, llamado también plato montañero, está compuesto de carne de vaca, chorizo, frijoles, arroz, plátano verde frito, un huevo frito, chicharrón y aguacate. Actualmente se puede encontrar en casi cualquier región.

Hormiga culona: Se trata, probablemente, de la especialidad colombiana más sofisticada, y está compuesta por grandes hormigas fritas. Es un plato único de Santander.

Chocolate santafereño: Es una taza de chocolate caliente acompañado por un trozo pan y otro de queso que se suele añadir al chocolate. Esta es también una especialidad bogotana.

Cuy o cui: Una especie de roedor, similar a la cobaya o al conejillo de indias, que se sirve asado en Nariño.

Lechona: Es un lechón relleno de cerdo y arroz, asado utilizando un espetón o varilla para clavar la pieza y ponerla al fuego. Una especialidad de Tolima.

Tamales: Especie de empanada hecha de masa de harina de maíz envuelta en hojas de plátano o de la mazorca del maíz, y rellena de distintos condimentos, generalmente trozos de cerdo con arroz y verduras. Hay numerosas variedades regionales.

http://www.mundogar.com/ideas/ficha.asp?ID=14381

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 06:50:

Good point Raulinho about how taste-buds remain in our memories.
I have a really good experience to share about taste-buds.
I will try to post it next time, it's about great hot dogs from New Jersey.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Pappassito (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 16, 2007, 07:14:

webmanco says on Apr 16, 2007, 07:52:

I should put a sign in the car that reads I stop for AREPAS and EMPANADAS CON AJÍ,

Me detengo por AREPAS and Empanadas

Give me an arepa a thousand times instead of pankakes or waffles.

I do enjoy Mexican food as well.


Que no cunda el pánico

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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Cerealkiller says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:01:

I guess it depends on the Arepa...I absolutely hate fat arepas, those that look more like a ball...thats like eating toilet paper. The flat arepas with some butter and salt, maybe some hmm..... whats the name of that stuff made of tomato and onion, like a sauce, people put on meat too???? I always forget that one. Anyway, a crunchy arepa with that stuff on is yummy!!!

Conservatives are not necessarily stupid, but most stupid people are conservatives -John Stuart Mill

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Azul says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:04:

the first thing that came to mind when I read this posting was bollo, not arepas.

las cosas caen por su propio peso

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kalder says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:09:

Empanadas are delicious. It's takes a supreme act of will to stop myself from eating those by the lorry load!

"kalder- have you ever had a woman?"--Sam Salmon

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webmanco says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:10:

I forgot about Envueltos de mazorca, torta de platano, pastel Gloria, tamales and masato






Que no cunda el pánico

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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miamimike says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:28:

Most of the Arepas sold around Miami at Outdoor events fiestas ect are all premade and frozen then Microwaved and served and not too good. Rumor has it they are made in someone's Garage cranked out by the 1000s and frozen. Next time you go to a Fiesta at Bayside, Calle Ocho remember this fact LOL! LOL Who knows how long they sat around frozen in some large freezer? A Miami Based Chain of Panderarias(sp) (venezuelan)known as "Don Pan" makes their's out of Maiz Blanco(white flour)and serve them with a Variety of Fillings like Tuna, Meat ect. They make 'em fresh daily and are delicious. Most of the "run of the Mill" Yellow "Hockey-Puck" Miami Arepas sold on the street and at the Fiestas are made of Yellow Flour, prefrozen, microwaved and tasteless,,, Go to a Miami Don Pans' if you want a Tasty Fresh Arepa; bet you will change tour opinion after you have eaten a really good fresh Arepa,,,

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:40:

No megusta ni el Masato ni No me gusta ni el Masato ni la chicha yuakkkkk

and for me to eat a Cuy and have to be sedated.!

but I adore Empanadas.. on the road to villavo there is a place famous for their empanadas with picante ... everybody stop there to eat quiet a few :))

Although i like some Colombia food, my favourite food is Thai food.
those people use lots of nice spices and herbs, everything have a delicious aroma in it.

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catorr says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:42:

Arepas de chocolo, are definitely my favorite. They are awesome in Colombia, and I tried to make them here in the US, but they are very difficult to make. Arepas con Queso are pretty good too, and are a staple for breakfast.

If you buy frozen ones, I am sure they tast bad when you rewarm them in the microwave, you need to get a little grill you put on top of the burner on your stove. Or even a toaster oven would be better then the microwave!

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coffee beaner says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:42:

Ohh please!!!! I actually find this insulting... I can't believe this guy has the balls to say "some of the MRE's in the military were far more delicious"... are you serious???? eating MRE's and saying they are tasty shows that you have pretty low standards in food in the first place, and then you come to criticize "arepas"??? you can't be serious!!! I guess next time you go down to Colombia take a tasty Jambalaya and a Beef Enchilada MRE so you can have some "good tasting food".

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:44:

Arepas is an acquired taste and it took me several YEARS to aqcuire it. I like the plain, round hockey pucks served to barbecued chicken or meat; just as jaramillo said, they offset the dominant, complex flavor or the seasoned and grilled meat very nicely. I like arepa de huevo and other stuffed arepas too, also the cheesy ones. The kind I'm not so crazy about is the arepa de choc(o)lo, the yellow corn arepa.

Given a choice, it's empanada for me, thank you, Cali style with ají pique or lemon(lime).

Cheers,
Desi



"None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe
they are free." —Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 08:44:

catorr that is the thing with arepas, bunuelos and empanadas, you have to eat them fresh or al dente as we said in Colombia, re-heated or cook from frozen don't have the same taste.

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JMCana says on Apr 16, 2007, 09:54:

Bland yes I am going on my 4th year with having much Colombian food available. I still find it difficult for how bland the food is. Recently on a trip we stayed several days at a finca place outside of Armenia. I was not the only person complaining about the food being so bad and bland (and this included Colombians) and yes, I have tasted better MRE's.

However, when I permanently moved to Colombia I brought with me everything needed for Thai food (there is not a single good Thai restaurant in Bogota). The first time I cooked it for my Colombian wife sweat beaded on her forehead and tears rolled from her eyes and I had made it very mild to my taste. She now enjoys it much. Some of the older Colombians have found even my very mild dishes way too picante. But the younger ones love the Thai dishes. They also like the other dishes I make using more spices.

I am getting a little better with eating arepas. It is taking awhile to acquire that taste. But for me to eat that weak soup for breakfast will take at least another 10 years minimum.

I just wish they would put pepper on the table in restaurants in Colombia.

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elmodefoque says on Apr 16, 2007, 10:27:

You guys are victims of NOT comida Colombiana, but comida cachaca.
Our cachaco brothers food is a little on the extremely bland side. I remember the first time I had those arepea cachacas the one described as white hockey puck.
It was the summer of 1999, a beautiful day in NYC. I decided to take my brand new cachaca wify to Queens so she could be around her cachaco people.
She spotted a place called “Pollo Mario”. “Mi amor, we have the same restaurant in Medellin, lets eat there” she said. She suggested I order myself a bandeja paisa which I did. A few minutes earlier on my way there from Manhattan I smoked a nice fat blunt, so ofcourse I had the munchies real bad. Normally is impossible for a human being to eat the whole thing but I was high.
I sat there and went thru the meat, el chorizo, the rice the beans the aguacate, the chuleta, the eggs, el platano la ensalada and the only thing left on my plate was that unrecognizable strange white round chit (arepa)
“Mi vida, que es esta vaina, parece como un hockey puck blanco?” I says “Eat it mi amor is delicious” she said. I took a bite and immediately spit that chit out, “esta mierda tastes like fokin cardboard, are you trying fokin kill me already?” I said.
I was so disgusted and mad I threw that chit out the window, most likely knocking out some poor modefoque down there.

I'll get there, when I get there!

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webmanco says on Apr 16, 2007, 10:33:

The only arepa I dislike is the one given when you buy chicken. It is really small and round. But the small and round given at Acacias Restaurant and Restaruante Antioqueño, they are good.!!

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 10:49:

lol webmanco the ones that they give you when you buy chicken is the ones you can buy in the street supermarkets or the corner shops, you know they are 5 or 6 wrapped in a plastic bag, they are so stale and old.
the ones in the acacias restaurant are fresh and i agree they taste good.

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elmodefoque says on Apr 16, 2007, 10:53:

Mira Kat, desde ahora mismo te voy arbertir, cuando seas mi muje, don’t even think of serving me those arepas blancas. I like arepas costeñas filled with huevo perico.

I'll get there, when I get there!

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 10:56:

si senor con huevo perico y cianuro :)))

y desde cuando un costeno dice huevo perico?

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miamimike says on Apr 16, 2007, 11:07:

Hey Kat,Could this Guy Chomp down on a Colombian Arepa? I know you like these Guys with the Pretty teeth! LOL


http://www.grimmemennesker.dk/ugly-people-450.htm

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 16, 2007, 11:27:

disgusting

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JMCana says on Apr 16, 2007, 11:42:

arepizzas After some experimenting I finally found a formula that both my Colombian family and I could both live with eating arepas. I basically treated them like the dough for a pizza. Added a homemade and seasoned tomato sauce on top, then two different kinds of cheese and various toppings with possibly more spices depending upon the toppings. Baked them in the oven and everyone loved them.

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MacGringo says on Apr 16, 2007, 15:00:

Arepa de choclo y huevos con sanchica.....mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 19:12:

Do not agree with Pappassito “On another note,Colombianos for the most part don`t like comida picante! Yes,you can find ahi(the colombian version of La. hot sauce)at most resturants,the best is ahi de la casa,or homeade ahi. I have resorted to bringing my own black pepper with me when I go,as theirs is very fine and not very spicy.”

I do not agree with Pappassito.

In South America: Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile and Colombia and other countries in the continent love ají. Ají has been for centuries the basic food of the indigenous people. In fact, Chibchas in Colombia have been eating ají as part of their daily food for centuries.

I love “comida picate” and like to add ají to my meals whenever it is available. Many Colombians do love ají! Some like it a bit hotter and others like it a bit mild some do not like it at all. I myself like it very hot, that’s why when I stop by Buffalo Wild Wings I order wings Blazin’

Colombians do like comida picante in their meals and also Colombians consumes a great deal of ají and also export it!

Here’s a related article from Reader’s Digest
I like them hot, hot, hot
http://www.poorbuthappy.com/colombia/node/15501


By the way, the correct spelling is Ají and let me share with you an educational facts about ají:

Chile Name

· Chili refers to the official state dish of Texas and is the anglicized way of spelling the plant.
· Historically in the Caribbean and South America Indigenous cultures called the plant aji, Columbus called the unfamiliar spice “pepper”, after the black pepper he was seeking, thus they have also been called peppers (Andrews 81).
· In Mexico, Central America, and the southwestern U.S., Capsicums are called chile, which is the original Spanish way of spelling the plant with an e instead of an i.

· Chiles are native to South America, and are thought to have originated in area south of the wet forests of Amazonia and the semiarid regions of Brazil and Bolivia (Andrews 82).
· They have been distributed by birds, and by humans through exploration and slave trade for the past 1,000 years.
So swiftly were chiles dispersed from their origins in South America they have been long been perceived by botanists to be native to India and Indonesia (Andrews 82).

*********************************************************************

South America

The South American contributions included chocolate, vanilla, maize (corn), hot peppers (called ají in South America), guavas, sweet potatoes, manioc (cassava), tomatoes, potatoes, avocados, beans, squash (particularly the ancestor of zucchini), peanuts, quinine, and papayas, as well as turkeys.

http://www.answers.com/topic/south-america

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 19:17:

JMCana “I am going on my 4th year with having much Colombian food available. I still find it difficult for how bland the food is. Recently on a trip we stayed several days at a finca place outside of Armenia. I was not the only person complaining about the food being so bad and bland (and this included Colombians) and yes, I have tasted better MRE's.”

I am sorry to hear you have encountered a bland world in Colombia.
I however strongly disagree with your findings about Colombian food being bland. If you check all my links posted here at pbh about Colombian cuisine they will proof wrong the bland world that your experience while you traveled throughout Colombia.
Moreover, in addition to “COCINA COLOMBIANA, PLURALIDAD DE SABORES” and “COLOMBIA: PLATOS POR REGIONES” posted above, here is another article in favor of my own experience.

About Colombian
Combining the Spanish cuisine with that of the Africans and the Native Americans, the Colombian cuisine is known for its exoticness and spicy taste.

http://www.cookbookwiki.com/About_Colombian

I know you are going to tell me that you have traveled all over Colombia and that you have relatives in Cartagena, Barranquilla, Bogota, Villavicenco and Cali and also that you had several restaurants in couple of these places which means you know more than I do.

P.S. I am not angry, I am just happy you are here.

Monpirri

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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David in Idaho says on Apr 16, 2007, 19:46:

Very silly! Everyone is an expert on the topic of their own taste. You can argue yourself blue in the face that Food X is bland or delicious, and of course, you are absolutely correct. The silly thing is to insist that this interpretation be true for others.

Now, speaking comparatively, it has been my experience that in South American countries, including Colombia, it is usually difficult to find dishes that appeal to my addiction to spiciness. I grew up on the Mexican border, and spent a year in Korea (whose cuisine is even spicier than Mexico's) and what happened was, over time, my tolerance increased and became a true craving. So, when I'm in countries that don't typically "turn up the heat," the lack of something picante is very noticeable. In Colombia, I always go through withdrawals bordering on delerium tremens, wishing for that sweaty forehead and numb lips. Of course Colombia has Ají and it is widespread, traditional, and popular - I think we all know that. But clearly, the average South American preference for spiciness is much milder than the Mexican norm. In other words, South Americans use chilis with lower Scoville units, as compared to such varieties as the Jalapeño or Habanero. This is a fact and therefore isn't really debatable. But isn't it pointless to argue that one way is better or worse, when discussing matters of personal taste?

It makes me think of the poor losers who insist that blondes are more beautiful, when we all know that morenas are where it's at!

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 21:33:

Ok People from the South are always going to claim that their food taste better than food from any part of the world. It's a very personal or subjective decision and I will respect your decision.

Have you been in Peru? Have you tried to find out how hot are some of their foods?
Have you been in some places in Medellin and La Costa Atlantica or in the Amazonas? Have you ever tried any hot Colombian food? I mean really hot!!
I am not saying that 100% of Colombians enjoy aji picante or hot food.

I disagree with you on this comment:
"South Americans use chilis with lower Scoville units, as compared to such varieties as the Jalapeño or Habanero."
You mean Jalapeño or Habanero are more known in the states than all the Ajis from South America, Asia and other countries.

Ají Carquin from Colombia has 10 + degrees in the hot scale or Scoville units, way above the two mentioned.

http://www.colombiaaji.com/"

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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webmanco says on Apr 16, 2007, 21:44:

Gracias Por la informacion Mompirri, eso queda en el Barrio Quiroga, cerca al Restrepo

Trataré de pasar esta semana y en el camino parar por un Ponche Quindiano.


Colombia Ají



En agradecimiento da click en la imagen, (Cumbia con Xiomara Salinas) oriunda de Buenaventura.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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Monpirri says on Apr 16, 2007, 21:48:

Webmanco De nada hermano colombiano.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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mecca says on Apr 16, 2007, 22:29:

Web, circa Restrepo ?? donde alli en la valle?? tambien, estoy buscando por various carnes, si tienes info. gracias... por que me encanta con "the spicy flavors"

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webmanco says on Apr 16, 2007, 22:33:

Bogotá, but you could e-mail them for info in Cali.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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mecca says on Apr 16, 2007, 22:38:

Thanks Web.. when you get toward cali let me know. My place will be ready in 2-3 months and we're going to have some great BBQ there. You're invited.

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webmanco says on Apr 16, 2007, 22:47:

Good Let me know as well whenever you hit Bogotá. I got my contact tab activated. Thanks

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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mecca says on Apr 16, 2007, 22:52:

Hi Web I don't make it past Med. on the north side. I just get too much cold weather in the states. Though got a place in Med. and Cali and doors are open as they are getting finished. I came to Bog. once and it was dreary but i'm open minded. I'll send you an email via the site.

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pedro says on Apr 16, 2007, 23:06:

Acquired Agree with some of the other responses. It's an acquired taste (or should that be an acquired lack of taste?)

Arepas gordas are the hardest to like, the ones that are chubby, small and cold.

The other types are better:
- arepas de chocolo
- thin arepas spread with quesito and butter
- arepas al carbon / arepas con todo

After being in Colombia for a while, I'm gradually starting to enjoy most kinds of arepas (at least it makes a change from rice).

I still don't much like the ones you buy on the street in Barranquilla with the butter and cheese. That cheese they use tastes like puke.

que nota!

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Man Tequila says on Apr 16, 2007, 23:19:

Many arepas are inedible. Some are delicious -- I particularly remeber some delicious arepas de choclo I enjoyed on the way to El Piñol at a roadside stand.

I love spicy food and agree that Colombians by and large prefer their meals on the bland side. You can usually get a bottle of Tabasco on request, but nothing hotter than that. Very hot ajís do exist but don't seem to me to be that popular or widely available in restaurants. Most of the ají I had was fairly bland. Bringing your own salsa is a good idea if this is what you like. Even Colombian chorizo is fairly mild.

I do enjoy Colombian food, however. And it's hard to beat the wide variety of fruit shakes. But it is a little bland and benefits from a little extra spice -- be it a bandeja paisa, ajiaco, cazuela, etc.

I grew up eating spicy food; my parents were fond of Indian vindaloo and Mexican salsas. I thought spicy food was great too. Then I worked as a medical student in India for six weeks and found that while the spicy lunches and dinners were tasty, waking up to a spicy breakfast sucked eggs. I couldn't get used to a spicy breakfast.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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webmanco says on Apr 16, 2007, 23:20:

Arepa con todo

Con cuajada





Arepas con Chorizo "Chorizos el Mono"


Arepas con huevos perico, que rico

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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poco says on Apr 16, 2007, 23:53:

Arepa con pelo Me and my buddies would throw them at each other, we took some and were flinging them at some brick walls to make a statement

I hadn’t thought about that. I carry a pocket mirror to see if they scratch the glass. Throwing could cause you to lose your arepa especially around starving College Students.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 05:09:

That's because you are a ghetto gringo.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 17, 2007, 05:28:

my favourites are arepas con queso but with lots of cheese


in Villavo there is a restaurant that sell Areaps con todo, de arepa is fill with cheese, carne desmechada, salad,chorizo and sauce i thnk tarta sauce. it like a pizza

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David in Idaho says on Apr 17, 2007, 05:58:

¿Ají Carquin? I'm sure it is a hot chili, although you should know that "10+ degrees" is not a measurement of Scoville units, but sounds more like the corny ratings that salsa manufacturers put on their labels. The point is, Colombia may have the hottest pepper in the whole dang galaxy, but if the general populace doesn't eat them, they can hardly be considered part of the national cuisine.

Actually, the hottest chili in the galaxy is, I believe, the Naga Jolokia from India, with slightly over one million Scoville Units - roughly four times hotter than the Habanero and 20 times hotter than a Jalapeño. Where does the Carquin weigh in? Has it been rated? Do you (monpirri) know what you're talking about, or is your pride speaking louder than your knowledge?

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Pappassito (☼Travelguide writer) says on Apr 17, 2007, 07:31:

Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:00:

"Where does the Carquin weigh in? Has it been rated? Do you (monpirri) know what you're talking about, or is your pride speaking louder than your knowledge?"
Yep, I do know what I am talking about and there is another ají from Colombian Amazonas that is very hot also. I remember it starts with the letter "P" Does anyone know the name of it?
Are the South Americans ajís rated? I do not know if they are rated or not. But if you check the link http://www.colombiaaji.com/ above you will found that Carquin is hotter than Jalapeño and Habanero. Do not take my word for it, why don't you try it?
My pride is equal to your biased information that you trying to convey here.
We just do not have the marketing strategy in place nor we have the TV networks to advertise our products.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Goye says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:02:

whats the name of that stuff made of tomato and onion "whats the name of that stuff made of tomato and onion, like a sauce, people put on meat too???? "

it's called "Guiso"

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:07:

what's the difference between "guiso" and "hogao"?

Cheers,
Desi

"None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe
they are free." —Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:08:

It's guiso Guiso, tomato, onions and chopped garlic.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:11:

Hogao Vs. Guiso I am sorry Desi, I do not know the difference.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:14:

Hogao has the same ingredients and is used to season meats and soups. I think it's basically the same stuff.

DCheers,
Desi

"None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe
they are free." —Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:19:

desi is the same but in different regions they call it different, i think in Cali is call hogao and bogota Guiso

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webmanco says on Apr 17, 2007, 10:55:

only then I pour some ají



I do like ají but I don´t put any on my food only after I taste the food without any picante, only then I pour some ají.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 12:21:

Webmanco I used to live in near barrio el restrepo when I was a kid. I believe that is south, in fact we lived in barrio los sauces. El SENA was close by.
I have question, there is another ají very hot, is so hot that makes the workers cry when they are trying to package it.
The ají starts with the letter "P" and there is a processing plant in la Amazonas. Would you find out the name of it?

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Man Tequila says on Apr 17, 2007, 12:45:

Good food is its own marketing. Many of the best restaurants I know are holes in the wall known for their food and not their ambience. They don't need TV campaigns. The fact is most Colombians don't like spicy food. Lots of Candians and other people don't like spicy food either, de gustibus non est disputandum.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 13:15:

Mantequilla That's your opinion.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 14:04:

And I agree 50% Colombia did not enjoy the full spectrum of marketing and advertising because the country has been engulfed with several internal problems in the last 30 years or more. Too much to handle for Colombians, but a very good sign for the vultures!
Wait a minute, now that think of it, it’s better that Colombia continue being known as a country of bland food as the epicurean gringos know it on pbh.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Man Tequila says on Apr 17, 2007, 14:32:

I agree advertisng in Colombia is not "full spectrum", but people seek out good food without this. Lots of small operations in Colombia serve tasty food and are popular, without TV or newspaper ads. Colombian food is tasty and occasionally nutritious, but it is rarely spicy. Sorry this fact upsets you.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 14:41:

Well I am glad that now you agree with me 50%. I know for sure that you do not know Colombian food very well because not even Colombians know it all because it requires a lot of traveling within the country, a positive attitude and a very good command of the language.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Man Tequila says on Apr 17, 2007, 14:57:

I don't claim to be an expert on Colombian food. I have travelled in Colombia more widely than many Colombians, though, making an effort to seek out new, local dishes -- since I can eat pizza, fried chicken and pasta anywhere. I have found Colombians only too happy to show me typical dishes, sometimes going as far as to bring me complimentary taster plates so I could try more of them (guess they were impressed with my positivity -- I was certainly impressed with their pride and enthusiasm). You don't need to speak like Marquéz to order food in a restaurant, you know. Not that difficult.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 15:15:

I agree again with Mantequilla, 50% But don't get upset dude, I did not say to speak like Gabriel García Márquez. If you go to a good typical Colombian restaurant, would you be able, without the help of your partner, to find out all about that dish that you are going to order? The preparation method, the cut of the meat and stuff like that?
Let me give a better example, I have posted on the other thread "Food, glorious food" two or three menus, Are you familiar with any of those dishes? Too bland for you also?
Would you be able to translate them here for the bland society?

I am not angry with you, I just happy that you are here,

Monpirri

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Man Tequila says on Apr 17, 2007, 15:34:

When I go to Colombia, I make a point of speaking Spanish exclusively for the entire trip. By doing this, my Spanish is up to an intermediate level. To answer your question -- I don't know. I easily order in restaurants and know basic terms for food preparation, ingredients and cuts of meat. I know a fair bit about cooking, having worked as a chef way back when. It would depend on how detailled a description it was, I guess. I'm adventerous enough to sometimes try foods even when I don't understand the description. So you have a point (geez, it hurts to say that!). But food can be tasty without being spicy. No one in their right mind would conclude Colombian food is anywhere close to as spicy as Mexican food. And the Scoville scale is logarithmic, going to millions of units - a change of 10 units is meaningless.

I saw your list, and have tried some of the dishes there, perhaps between 20-33% of them. A few of the dishes are stuff I don't like, there are indeed many I don't know. Some of the dishes are not widely available; on the other hand big cities usually contain places where regional food can be found (maybe not easily). But you don't need to try every dish to know a cuisine, just the best dishes and the most popular dishes. You may not have Shoo-Fly Pie or Moxie in the past week, but I'll bet you know "American food", too.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 17:44:

Let me guess, you have
Mantequilla, let me guess, you have tried 20 or 21 ,uno de ñapa, of these bland dishes?
List of 20 bland typical Colombian dishes:

1 LENGUA EN SALSA PICANTE, from Recetas de la cocina colombiana
2 SOBREBARRIGA ASADA
3 SOPA DE GUANDÚ
4 TERNERA A LA LLANERA
5 CUCHUCO DE TRIGO CON ESPINAZO
6 VIUDO DE PESCADO
7 BISTECK A CABALLO
8 ARROZ ATOLLADO
9 CARIMAÑOLAS
10 SOPA DE INDIOS
11 CHORIZO
12 ARROZ CON CHIPI CHIPI
13 SANCOCHO DE COLA
14 MONDONGO
15 TAMALES VALLECAUCANOS O TOLIMENSES
16 FRITANGAS
17 PUCHERO BOGOTANO
18 FRIJOLES CON PEZUÑA
19 PERNIL DE CERDO
20 CHICHA
21 HELADO DE COQUITO

Nota: Algunos de esto platos los he tomado de la página
Recetas de la cocina colombiana.
http://poorbuthappy.com/colombia/node/23172

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Man Tequila says on Apr 17, 2007, 18:12:

I'm not really obsessive-compulsive enough to list the many Colombian dishes I've tried. But let me ask you this. Of the many dishes you listed in your "Food, glorius food" list -- which of these dishes would you say are particularly spicy, independent of adding your own hot sauce? If I ask them to "make it spicy" in a Thai or Mexican restaurant, it's going to be. If I order Vindaloo, I know it will make my throat scream. In Colombia, my experience is that even food with salsa or aji picante is at a MUCH lower intensity. You've listed a lot of foods, so tell me all of the ones dirtyneedlez would find spicy, so he can enjoy them on his next trip.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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Man Tequila says on Apr 17, 2007, 18:29:

"Colombia is famous for many things other than its cuisine, but that is not to say the food won't delight your taste buds. It is true that those looking for spicy food or exquisite flavors will be disappointed because many dishes are plain."

That double-crossing Lonely Planet Guide! I'll bet they get a couple of complaints each decade for writing this sort of nonsense!

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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Monpirri says on Apr 17, 2007, 18:35:

Hot Vs. Spicy? Don't tell me you have not even tried helado de coquito?
Expert on Colombian cuisine here have argued all along that the food is too bland and I have posted 20 "bland" dishes for you as a test.
Spicy you mean like HOT? I tell you, South America and Colombia are not known for being aficionados of ají. They add ají as need to their favorite meal but I do not think they would take a meat, rice or any other dish and marinated it overnight in Carquin sauce.
Better yet, why don’t you give me the dish that you or your friend claims is very spicy or hot?.
I do not know why I’m thinking I’m talking to UTC?

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Man Tequila says on Apr 17, 2007, 19:31:

I've eaten coconut ice cream in both New York and Colombia, if that's what you mean. Perhaps not unique to Colombia, but helps to get rid of that intense burn after a trip to Koko Rico. People who are delusional sometimes get confused who they're talking to. Best just to stay calm and avoid stimulating foods -- such as Shrimp Tindaloo with Hot Lime Pickle, Thai Red Beef Curry, Huevos Motuleños, Szechuan Shrimp, Korean Kim Chee and Colombian Aguardiente con salsa habenera.

Aunque no me creas/ si me lo propongo/ lograre olvidarte/ porque a fin de cuentas/ no soy tan cobarde./ Y termino todo una de estas tardes/ no sera dificil buscar algún sitio donde refugiarme/ donde nunca mas vuelvas a encontrarme. (Polo Montañez)

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David in Idaho says on Apr 17, 2007, 20:11:

Monpirri1, ¡ahora me tienes gringo! Now you've got me all confused! As my Colombian wife would say, "Ay, me tienes gringa!"

First you say:

"In South America: Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile and Colombia and other countries in the continent love ají. Ají has been for centuries the basic food of the indigenous people. In fact, Chibchas in Colombia have been eating ají as part of their daily food for centuries."

Then several of us who do travel with open minds and open mouths decide to disagree with you a wee bit about the Colombian Ají issue, and you change your tune to this:

"I tell you, South America and Colombia are not known for being aficionados of ají."

I think it would be good idea for you to take a step back and realize that nobody is trying to criticize your culture, so there is no need to defend it - We're just making an obvervation based on experience. Apparently, it is an observation you've finally decided to agree with.

Now that we've settled that, I'll add that I LOVE Colombian food, despite its lack of spiciness. I'm mostly familiar with the coastal cuisine, and I absolutely love a good cazuela, or anything with shrimp (a food that is hard to ruin in any country!) Also, in Bogotá I've had some superb bandeja paisa and ajiaco. MMMM Now I'm hungry (see me yawn?), and sadly I don't think these delicacies are available in Idaho.

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manu1999 says on Apr 17, 2007, 20:31:

Arepas are not fun I don't think so. Cuisine in Colombia is not one of it's shining points.


hahaha, gold... arepas: hard white bland things with no taste. Who wouldn't want to eat them????

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Monpirri says on Apr 18, 2007, 05:39:

David in Idaho I did not change any tunes. Colombia still the same, just get rid of the gringo way of thinking, don't go to Colombia thinking you are going to find your favorite food over there, just try to learn more about Colombia gastronomy! It's kind of difficult because it is not centralized in one part, you know what I mean, just try for yourself the dishes that are labeled as "bland" by the gringo culture.

And if you like hot or spicy stuff you will find lots of Colombians who enjoy HOT food or just talk to Chibcha he will help you.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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David in Idaho says on Apr 18, 2007, 05:54:

Actually, I do go to Colombia expecting to find my favorite food And I find it every time: Seafood! Shrimp, crab, clams, fish, and above all, the almighty Lobster!

I wonder why you counsel me to "get rid of my gringo way of thinking" since I am clearly a gringo. Of course, I do live, work, play, and in all other ways surround myself with latino culture, including the music, food, dance, and clothing. Also, I am fluent in Spanish. But to tell me to lose my own way of thinking ... well, how much grief would I catch if I suggested that you (or any other latino) should get rid of their way of thinking? I'd instantly be blackballed as a self-righteous, rascist, bigotted ass-hole.

Furthermore, I suggest reading the thread a little more closely so as to not confuse posters. I have never suggested that Colombian cuisine was bland. Don't mistake "lack of spiciness" with blandness. I'd say Colombian food is usually mild, but not bland. (An English lesson for you: Mild = Lacking heat; Bland = Lacking flavor) Gracias a Dios, the lowly arepa is not representative of the variety of delicious cuisine in your country, and even this boring item can be dressed up nicely, as many posts have pointed out.

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elmodefoque says on Apr 18, 2007, 05:55:

Don’t really know from other Colombians, but this costeño likes his food bien picante.
If mocos don’t come down my nose and I don’t start sweating when I eat, I aint happy. Another thing, for me to be totally happy my ass hole gotta burn real bad when I do a number two and with a little touch of blood.
The hottest picante I ever had was green picante, my first day in Cancun. I really thought I was gonna fokin die.
I got a taste for picante from my Wayuu injun grandfather. That modefoque used to keep it in a jar for months, stink up the entire hut.

I'll get there, when I get there!

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David in Idaho says on Apr 18, 2007, 06:16:

You're a rare specimen Elmo Do you think all that spice is the secret to your old age?

You probably already know about Dave's Insanity Sauce, but in case you haven't tried it, I recommend getting a bottle. In most kitchens, a small bottle will last years, since it is made from the condensed essense of dragon snot. I admit, it is way beyond my limits. Make sure you check your insurance coverage before using it.

A minute speck of this concoction would make the blandest arepa into a screaming fireball of fury.

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Monpirri says on Apr 18, 2007, 07:26:

Dude When I said, "just get rid of the gringo way of thinking" I was just trying to go along with you statement, ¡ahora me tienes gringo!
I have nothing personal against you, I have several American friends but not too many gringos.
When I posted my anwers I was not referring only to you in regard to "Bland" food from Colombia, I was also addressing other people as well.
Now, about the damn arepa, get this straight, yes there is one bland or tasteless arepa but the are several types of arepas! The reason one is bland is because it's used as a complement for the already seasoned and well prepared, deliciuos meal, you use the tasteless arepa to dip it in los frijoles, or in the soup, or you use it to clean the plate after the juices from bistec a caballo.

BUEN APETITO!

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Monpirri says on Apr 18, 2007, 07:31:

Nothing rare, many Colombians do like hot, hot food I also like to complement my food with ají picante, the hotter the merrier!

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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aztec says on Apr 18, 2007, 07:40:

dirtyneedlez, many different kinds of Arepas. Personally don't like those little white/yellow ones served on many plates there. However, I love others and always take several packages back to the States. The only caution is that one can get fat eating the more delicious ones every day.

Try the cheese arepas after frying/toasting them a golden brown.

Also correct my impression of Mexican food. I have been told that Mexican food is so bad that the only way to eat it is make it so hot and spicy you can't taste it.

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Monpirri says on Apr 18, 2007, 07:45:

Good for you Aztec, I used dislike the plain and tasteless arepa but as I learned to use it with the Colombian meals, now I see the light! Cooking is art and eating is an art.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Desideria (Moderator) says on Apr 18, 2007, 07:59:

I've heard two different theories about spicy food 1) spicy food is popular in hot climate countries because it makes you sweat and makes your body cool down a bit.
2)spicy food is popular in hot third world countries to mask the bad condition of the fresh indredients due to lack of dependable or non-existent refrgeration.

I like a little ají pique in my empanadas and some spicy dishes from southeast Asia and Mexico, but I think that it's a gastronomical blasphemy to mask the fine, natural taste of many ingredients with too much hot spices. Used in moderation, good, in excess it's butcher.

Cheers,
Desi

"None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe
they are free." —Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

"When shall we three meet again? In thunder, lightning, or in rain?"(First Witch in Macbeth)

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JMCana says on Apr 18, 2007, 08:29:

A third reason Desideria you mentioned a couple good reasons for spicy food. In fact it is said that a prominent restaurant started making blackened catfish to mask the bad taste of the cheap fish.

But I have found another reason for spice in food. Depending upon the ingredient that makes it Picante or spicy, it can have a health benefit just like herb teas and other natural things. This has been confirmed in different countries especially Asian in my experience. In fact one well over 90 year old lady in the back areas of Colombia agreed with that. The old lady knows much about healing with herbs and spices.

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Monpirri says on Apr 18, 2007, 09:04:

I agree with Desi and JMCana "I think that it's a gastronomical blasphemy to mask the fine, natural taste of many ingredients with too much hot spices. Used in moderation, good, in excess it's butcher."
I agree

"Depending upon the ingredient that makes it Picante or spicy, it can have a health benefit just like herb teas and other natural things."
I agree

They also claim that aji picante has medical benefits but key factor is to use it with moderation.
I myself love to use ají on only some dishes.

The life spam of a taste bud is ten days

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Miguel says on Apr 18, 2007, 09:08:

Arepas If you don't like them, give them to the next hungry kid you see on the street.

I have to disagree with my friend Pedro about the cheese in Barranquilla and the north coast in general; that white cheese, IMHO is among the best in the world.

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panthdave says on Apr 18, 2007, 09:29:

Arepas Are like Toast with my Breakfast Needed to get use to them but now like them with alittle butter..
Have the Arepa little cooker on my oven..in Medellin..
Colombian Food is not the best compared to the flavors of Peru or Mexico..Actually Peru kicks ass..for food..Argentina is mixto grill but know how to have a serious barbacue or grilled meats..



panthdave Miami

panthdave Miami

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aztec says on Apr 18, 2007, 09:32:

Arepa little cooker on my oven Please tell us what that is. I haven't seen one. Thanks

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panthdave says on Apr 18, 2007, 11:51:

The little cage that goes on top of the gas oven.. You put the arepa in there a few minutes and then flip the arepa its like a alittle cage with a handle...



panthdave Miami

panthdave Miami

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webmanco says on Apr 20, 2007, 11:59:

Mecca I went and visit Colombia Ajì, and learn a few things, first in Cali you can find their ajìn in Carefour Valle Lili Carrera 98 con 16.

In Colombia we got one ajì called Tabasco but people know it more as Pajarito en Los Llanos and the Atlantic Coast.

The strongest Colombian ajì is Carquin is made base on aji cudabia, that is how indians called, they eat it as nothing. It is stronger than Habanero, Tabasco and Jalpeño.

They sell real Jalapeño done with Mexican seeds. Colombian aji has nothing to envy picantes from other countries.

...A yo, déjenme queto y no me jodan má! ...

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kat1 (Moderator) says on Apr 20, 2007, 13:47:

miguel are you talking about queso costeño? it is nice but fry or in soups, like mote de queso but on its own I find it too salty

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