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Cuenca, Ecuador is a city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. But one aspect of Cuenca that often gets overlooked is its incredible street food scene. From savory empanadas to sweet helados, Cuenca’s streets are filled with delicious treats just waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary tour of Cuenca’s best street food offerings, so you can experience the city like a true local.
Empanadas
One of the most popular street foods in Cuenca is the empanada. These savory pastries are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheese, meat, or vegetables, and are then fried to crispy perfection. You can find empanadas being sold on almost every street corner in Cuenca, and they make for a perfect snack or quick meal on the go.
Where to Find Them:
Some of the best empanadas in Cuenca can be found at the Mercado 10 de Agosto, a bustling market located in the heart of the city. Here, you’ll find vendors selling a wide variety of empanadas, each with their own unique twist. Be sure to try a few different types to find your favorite!
Ceviche
Ceviche is a traditional Ecuadorian dish made from fresh seafood that has been marinated in citrus juices, such as lemon or lime. The acidity of the citrus “cooks” the seafood, giving it a tender texture and refreshing flavor. Ceviche is a popular street food in Cuenca, and is the perfect dish to enjoy on a hot day.
Where to Find It:
Head to the Mercado 9 de Octubre to sample some of the best ceviche in Cuenca. Here, you’ll find vendors serving up fresh ceviche made with a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, fish, or squid. Be sure to squeeze some extra lime juice on top for an extra burst of flavor!
Helados
No street food tour of Cuenca would be complete without a stop for helados, or ice cream. Ecuador is known for its delicious ice cream, which is made from fresh, local ingredients and comes in a variety of flavors. Whether you prefer fruity sorbets or creamy chocolate, you’re sure to find a helado to satisfy your sweet tooth in Cuenca.
Where to Find Them:
For some of the best helados in Cuenca, head to the Heladería Tres Estrellas, a popular ice cream shop located in the historic district of the city. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of flavors to choose from, all made with the finest ingredients. Be sure to try a few different flavors to find your favorite!
FAQs
Q: Is street food safe to eat in Cuenca?
A: Yes, street food in Cuenca is generally safe to eat, as long as you choose vendors that appear clean and hygienic. Be sure to look for vendors that have a steady stream of customers, as this is a good indication of the quality of their food.
Q: What is the best time of day to enjoy street food in Cuenca?
A: The best time to enjoy street food in Cuenca is in the evening, when the city comes alive with the sights and sounds of bustling markets and food stalls. This is when you’ll find the widest variety of street food options, so be sure to come hungry!
Q: What is the average cost of street food in Cuenca?
A: Street food in Cuenca is incredibly affordable, with most dishes costing just a few dollars. You can easily enjoy a full meal for less than $5, making street food a budget-friendly option for travelers on a tight budget.
Exploring Cuenca’s culinary delights is a must-do for any food lover visiting Ecuador. From savory empanadas to refreshing ceviche, the city’s street food scene offers a wide variety of delicious dishes to satisfy every palate. So be sure to hit the streets of Cuenca on your next trip and indulge in the flavors of this vibrant city!
Adam Elliot Altholtz serves as the Administrator & Patient Coordinator of the “Find Health in Ecuador Dental Clinic”, along with his fellow Expats’ beloved ‘Dr. No Pain’, right here in Cuenca, Ecuador, and for purposes of discussing all your Dental needs and questions, is available virtually 24/7 on all 365 days of the year, including holidays. Adam proudly responds to ALL Expat patients from at least 7:00am to 9:00pm Ecuador time, again every single day of the year (and once more even on holidays), when you write to him by email at info@findhealthinecuador.com and also by inquiry submitted on the Dental Clinic’s fully detailed website of www.findhealthinecuador.com for you to visit any time, by day or night. Plus, you can reach Adam directly by WhatsApp at +593 98 392 9606 or by his US phone number of 1‐(941)‐227‐0114, and the Dental Clinic’s Ecuador phone number for local Expats residing in Cuenca is 07‐410‐8745. ALWAYS, you will receive your full Dental Service in English (NEVER in Spanish), per you as an Expat either living in or desiring to visit Cuenca by your Dental Vacation, plus also to enjoy all of Ecuador’s wonders that are just waiting for you to come arouse and delight your senses.