I love discovering new cuisines and Colombia is definitely on my list of places to go and to try their food. I remember watching the Colombia episode on Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown show. I was left desperately wanting to visit. The people were so generous, the culture so rich, and the food looks fantastic!
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If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Colombian food and culture, take a look at the Colombiana: A Rediscovery of Recipes and Rituals from the Soul of Colombia cookbook. Author Mariana Velásquez is a native Colombian who is kindly sharing some of her people’s food and traditions with a twist. She is also a James Beard-award-winning recipe developer and food stylist!
The most distinct thing about this cookbook is that we provided wonderful recipes, and also vibrant photos of table settings. In Colombian culture, atmosphere is just as vital as the food itself.
In her chapter A La Mesa she has an example of what the table looks like. This includes food suggestions that you would want to prepare for loved ones. There are also tips on how to set the table, including textiles, colors, dinnerware, and much more. There is even a whole section on how to be the best hostess for the day/night.
Velásquez explains the importance of all of these elements to create the perfect meal with loved ones. This includes your nuclear family!
It’s hard to look away from the glorious photos in Colombiana: A Rediscovery of Recipes and Rituals from the Soul of Colombia cookbook. It showcases many of these traditional and unique dishes in a very authentic way. This includes incorporating her tablescape ideologies.
The cookbook is divided into very easy sections: La Cocina (pantry essentials), En La Manana (In the morning), A La Mesa (main table), Al Algo (Afternoon and bites), Colombian-ish, and Oda Al Postre (desserts)
You will notice that many of the recipes have many, many servings. The highest I see is for ten people! That’s because in Colombian culture, no one goes hungry! It is truly a feast. This cookbook is perfect for large families or if you host large dinner parties.
There are quite a few ingredients because of much yield there is for each recipe, but they are all very easy to obtain. Even if the amount of ingredients is a little intimidating, the instructions are awfully easy.
The steps are easy to follow and makes each dish very approachable. Not only that, it is like Velásquez is right there cooking with you. Oftentimes there are stories incorporated with the recipes, so you learn a bit of Colombian culture along with how to make each recipe.
Some food examples you will find in this cookbook are unique pork dishes, gazpacho, delightful vibrant soups, arepas, empanadas, and so much more! There are 100 recipes offered in this cookbook, so you will be able to bring Colombian culture and food to your own kitchen and table.
Colombiana: A Rediscovery of Recipes and Rituals from the Soul of Colombia cookbook is stunning and such a treat to look through!
I’ve never tried Colombian food before, so I am interested to learn about it! What are some of your favorite starter dishes you would recommend?
~Kaiti
