Christmas celebrations in Panama are characterized by decorations, lights, songs, gifts, and most passionately, delicious food specially prepared for these dates.
End of the Year
On the table, there is usually a tray filled with fruits such as apples, grapes, or pears, and dried fruits typical of the season like walnuts.
As for the main menu, traditional dishes prepared for Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve include succulent tamales made with corn dough filled with meat or chicken stew, wrapped in bijao leaves for boiling.
Certainly, you will also find on the table the ever-present rice with pigeon peas and coconut, or the iconic rice with chicken, complemented by a delicious potato and egg salad, which can be served alongside turkey, ham, or roasted/stewed pig.
Classics of the Table
And as the fun begins, there’s always time for a seasonal classic, the fruit sweet, a cake that arrived in the region from other cultures and has continued to captivate the Panamanian palate with its blend of flavors from candied fruits, rum, and almonds.
Another almost always present favorite is the traditional egg bread ring with walnuts and almonds, enjoyed with hot chocolate—it’s a truly delightful experience.
And of course, the famous homemade eggnog rum punch, the main drink of Christmas across the country, or if you prefer, one of the beverages inherited from African slave traditions: the refreshing hibiscus chicha with lots of ginger, a touch of cinnamon, and cloves.
Undoubtedly, Panamanian Christmas is filled with joy, enjoyment, and flavors that represent the best of this season.
