The Story of Iguana Meat in Nicaragua

Many countries have their own special foods that don’t get eaten in other places, and Nicaragua is no different.

Across the country you’ll find stalls and restaurants selling iguana meat, the lizard that lives throughout Mesoamerica. It’s a traditional foodstuff in Nicaragua, and one that shot to international prominence in 2015.

Due to ongoing drought and food shortages, the Nicaraguan government put out a notice encouraging people to eat iguanas. While the reptiles have always been fairly common food in poorer rural communities, this was the first time the government encouraged the consumption.

As stories emerged from the country, the world’s knowledge of iguana meat began to increase. As it turns out, the consumption increases during Lent in Nicaragua because the Church bans believers from eating red meat. That said, you could be offered one at any time of year.

Interestingly, iguana soup is a common remedy for colds and flu. It is thought to have restorative properties, just like chicken soup in other cultures.

While Nicaraguans might eat it, it’s best to avoid iguana as a tourist. The reptiles are an endangered species in many places, and there are programs in place to restore the population.