Bandeja Paisa – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Colombia Region / Locale: Colombian Servings: Serves 4-6
Colombia Region / Locale: Colombian Servings: Serves 4-6Bandeja Paisa is the quintessential soul food of Colombia, specifically hailing from the Antioquia region. This opulent, hearty platter is a celebration of the region’s culinary diversity, combining a variety of textures and flavors into a single formidable meal. Traditionally, it’s a dish that symbolizes abundance and hospitality, reflecting Colombia’s rich agricultural heritage.
Ingredients
- white rice – 2 cups / 400 g
- red beans (cooked) – 2 cups / 480 g
- chorizo sausage – 4 pieces
- cooked pork belly – 500 g / 1.1 lbs
- ripe plantain – 1 large
- fried eggs – 4-6
- avocado – 1 large
- arepas – 4-6 small
- hogao (Colombian sauce) – 1 cup / 240 ml
- lime – 1, cut into wedges
- salt – to taste
- vegetable oil – for frying
Instructions
- Cook the white rice according to package instructions.
- Heat the cooked red beans in a pot over medium heat. Season with salt to taste.
- In a pan, fry the chorizo over medium heat until cooked through.
- Fry the pork belly in a pan until crispy and golden brown.
- Slice the plantain and fry in vegetable oil until caramelized and golden.
- In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side-up.
- Peel and slice the avocado.
- Heat the arepas on a griddle until warm and slightly crispy.
- Assemble the Bandeja Paisa on large plates: serve portions of rice, beans, fried pork belly, chorizo, plantain, a fried egg, and avocado.
- Top each plate with a spoonful of hogao and garnished with lime wedges to squeeze over.
Substitutions
- white rice -> brown rice
- chorizo sausage -> vegetarian sausage
- pork belly -> beef or turkey bacon
- avocado -> guacamole
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add marination technique for pork belly with cumin and paprika.
- Use freshly made arepas for improved texture.
- Incorporate cilantro into hogao for enhanced freshness.
- Consider cooking beans with a bay leaf for a depth of flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
