What makes Panama's gastronomy so special is its ability to blend the simple with the exotic, the everyday with the festive.
Local ingredients like corn, plantains, and fresh seafood transform into dishes that delight the palate, evoking stories of families, celebrations, and daily life.
In this article, we present the 10 most sought-after dishes in Panama that you can’t miss.
1. Panamanian Sancocho
Sancocho is Panama’s most iconic dish, a soup mainly prepared with chicken, ñame, cilantro, and other aromatic herbs.
Although its preparation may vary slightly between regions, its essence remains the same: a comforting meal, perfect for any occasion. Panamanians enjoy sancocho accompanied by white rice and often consider it the perfect remedy for hangovers.
El sancocho es un plato muy apreciado en diferentes regiones de Panamá, cada zona tiene su forma única de prepararlo, sin embargo, todos están de acuerdo en que el ñame y la gallina de patio son ingredientes esenciales para lograr un verdadero sancocho panameño.Sancocho
2. Rice with Chicken
Rice with chicken is a classic dish at Panamanian family celebrations. It’s a colorful combination of cooked rice with shredded chicken, peppers, peas, carrots, and local spices.
It’s a hearty and flavorful meal usually served with salad, fried plantains, and a portion of stewed beans. A true feast with every bite.
El arroz con pollo al estilo panameño es un plato típico muy celebrado en las fiestas patrias de Panamá. Su preparación sencilla y su popularidad lo convierten en un deleite gastronómico disfrutado en todas las regiones del país.Arroz con pollo
3. Ceviche
Ceviche is very popular in Panama, especially along the coast. It’s prepared with fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, mixed with onion, cilantro, and chili.
The freshness of the ingredients and the balance between acidity and spice make ceviche an essential dish for those seeking a refreshing bite on hot tropical days.
El ceviche es una verdadera delicia que se disfruta en prácticamente todos los países, pero en Panamá tiene un sabor auténticamente único. Este platillo se prepara con filete de corvina, convirtiéndose en una exquisita opción para disfrutar en cualquier ocasión.Ceviche al estilo panameño
4. Olla Tamal
Olla Tamal is a more practical version of the traditional Panamanian tamal. Instead of wrapping the corn dough in banana leaves, the ingredients (corn dough, pork or chicken, and vegetables) are cooked directly in a pot.
The result is a creamy, flavorful dish, perfect for sharing at family gatherings or special celebrations.
5. Carimañolas
Carimañolas are delicious fried snacks made of yuca filled with ground meat or cheese. These crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside croquettes are perfect for breakfast or as an appetizer.
Their unique flavor, blending the soft texture of yuca with savory filling, makes them highly sought after in local markets and cafes.
6. Patacones
Patacones are slices of green plantain twice-fried to achieve a crispy texture. They are a common side in many Panamanian dishes and can also be served as an appetizer with various salsas.
Whether enjoyed alone or with ceviche, patacones are a delightful staple of local cuisine.
7. Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja is a stew of shredded meat slow-cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices.
Originally from Spain, it has been adopted by many Latin American countries, but Panama adds its own distinctive touch. It is served with white rice, beans, and ripe plantains, creating a complete and delicious meal.
8. Hojaldras
Hojaldras are a type of fried bread typically enjoyed at breakfast. They are a dough that puffs up when fried, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
They are usually served plain or accompanied by cheese, meat, or eggs. Irresistible, they are an essential part of traditional Panamanian breakfasts.
9. Preheated Bun (Bollo Preñado)
The bollo preñado is a type of tamal made from tender corn, generally filled with meat or chorizo. It is wrapped in corn leaves and steamed, giving it a unique smoky flavor.
This dish is traditional at festivals and important events in Panama and always impresses with its robust flavor and smooth texture.
10. Chicheme
To end on a sweet note, chicheme is a traditional Panamanian beverage made with corn, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
This thick, refreshing drink is especially enjoyed on hot days and is perfect to accompany an afternoon of conversations.
Besides being delicious, chicheme evokes childhood memories for many Panamanians.
The cuisine of Panama reflects the rich cultural heritage of a country that has historically been a meeting point of diverse civilizations. From the intense flavors of the Caribbean to Creole influences, each dish tells a story connecting people to their roots.
Trying these 10 dishes is not only about enjoying good food but also about immersing yourself in the essence of what it means to be Panamanian, where gastronomy is synonymous with sharing and celebrating life.
