When we think of Patagonia, we imagine rugged landscapes, icy glaciers, wild animals, and views to die for. Now, imagine Patagonia without its scenery. Did anything else come to mind? Argentina is known for some great foods, one of their top dishes internationally being a great steak with a professionally aged glass of Malbec. But every region of Argentina brings something new to the table, literally.
1. Seafood in Patagonia
While the North is known for hearty meals like the locro soup and tamales and Mendoza banks off its dangerously delicious wine, Patagonia has something distinct. Let’s see some exquisite food in Patagonia you cannot miss!
Because of the geographic location, Patagonia obviously has some great seafood. Salmon, trout, king crab, and mollusks are some of the most common. But the seafood isn’t what has the spotlight down here. Nope, food in Patagonia may get a little bit sweeter.
2. Sweet Patagonia
Bariloche, Argentina’s lake district, is the sweetest Patagonia town from all of its chocolate. Immigrants from Italy settled in Bariloche over 50 years ago with the intention to create the chocolate they missed from Europe. They started by opening two chocolate factories, both still open to this day. If you travel to Patagonia, but more specifically Bariloche, in June, you might be able to experience the contests the city has to determine who has the best chocolate. Taste test away!
3. Fruits and Jams
Even though you may think of Patagonia as a cold and unlivable place, one of the most surprising foods in Patagonia is fruit. No, the climate is not at all tropical, but the fruit still comes in abundance and in many different colors! The most common fruits to find in this region are Raspberry and Rose Hip. Many of these fruits are incorporated into desserts as well as jams. Travel to Patagonia to get your fix on everything sweet!
A popular snack in Argentina is dulce de membrillo with a slab of mozzarella cheese. Dulce de membrillo can be translated to quince paste or quince cheese: a sweet, very dense jelly made from the pulp of quince fruit. This can also be made from sweet potato, so cut a portion of the thick “marmalade” and eat it with cheese. As unlikely a pair as this may be, it will leave you wanting more!
4. Patagonia’s Lamb
Last but not least, another classic must-try food in Patagonia is the lamb. A special treat in most places, lamb in Patagonia goes together like peanut butter and jelly. As fresh as it comes, you can find lamb at some asados, ranches, and regular old barbecue restaurants (parrillas). You know what they say: when in Rome…er, Patagonia….. The dish is traditionally known as Patagonian Lamb, and it is for sure the Trade Mark for you to assure you have visited Patagonia.
Ready for your Patagonia Adventure?
