Top 5: Central American Street Foods

Central America has a vibrant food culture, with plenty of treats sold at roadside stalls. Here are five of the best you have to try when you visit the region.

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Pupusas

These corn patties are filled with ground pork, cheese or a mixture of both, topped with cabbage and tomato sauce. Originally from El Salvador, pupusas can now be found throughout the region.

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Baleadas

You can’t move for baleadas in Honduras, and you’ll soon find out why. These flour tortillas are usually filled with beans and cabbage, but you can fill them with just about anything that takes your fancy before folding and grilling.

Nactamales

The more common tamales can be found throughout Central America, but nactamales are a special variation found in Nicaragua. Cornmeal dough and a filling such as meat or vegetables is packed into a banana leaf and steamed, making for a delicious roadside snack.

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Tostadas

In Guatemala you will often find mobile food carts pushed by traders hawking their wares at the top of their voice. One of the most popular snacks on sale are tostadas, a sort of large tortilla chip. You’ll often find them served with a topping of chicken and salad, but ingredients can vary.

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Tacos

You will find tacos across the region, with distinctive varieties found in different areas. With a seemingly endless variety of toppings you will be hard pressed to get bored of the humble, yet delicious, taco.