Our Favorite Latin American Recipes

Latin America is an expansive and diverse region, but one thing is standard across countries: robust and flavorful foods rich in tradition.

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Photo By: Evan Sung for The New York Times

Photo By: Evan Sung for The New York Times

Photo By: Evan Sung for The New York Times

Photo By: Evan Sung for The New York Times

Photo By: Evan Sung for The New York Times

Cuban Sandwich

Kelsey's addictive mojo spread is worth checking out this recipe on its own.

Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich

Scallop Plum Ceviche

This light and fresh dish gets extra kick from a pinch of cayenne and fresh tarragon.

Get the Recipe: Scallop Plum Ceviche

Sabrina's Tacos

Stuffed to the brim with potato and corn, and topped off with fresh crema and lime juice, Mark Bittman's take on tacos hits all the right notes.

Get the Recipe: Sabrina's Tacos

Pork Picadillo with Tostones and Salsa

In this classic Cuban dish, ground meat gets jazzed up with an array of delicious spices and dotted with bits of briny olives.

Get the Recipe: Pork Picadillo

Sancocho with Aji

Ingrid's spanish stew, overflowing with bright vegetables and simmered meats, is Simply Delicioso.

Get the Recipe: Sancocho with Aji

Pernil

A staple of Latin feasts, roasted pork finds it way into virtually every holiday meal. Tender and brimming with flavor, every bit of it is delicious - especially the uber-crunchy skin.

Get the Recipe: Pernil

Agua Fresca

Choose your flavor -- watermelon, cantaloupe or pineapple – and mix up a refreshing glass of tropical sweetness.

Get the Recipe: Agua Fresca

Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Left to marinade overnight, Emeril's succulent steak pairs perfectly with the parsley based chimichurri sauce.

Get the Recipe: Marinated Flank Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Pastelon de Platano Maduro

Sweet fried plantains top spicy ground meat in this take on a traditional Puerto Rican dish.

Get the Recipe: Pastelon de Platano Maduro

Cheesecake Flan

The food-child of two favorite desserts, Ingrid's recipe marries the sweet caramel taste of flan and rich creaminess of cheesecake.

Get the Recipe: Cheesecake Flan

Tostones

When mashed plantains are fried until crisp and topped with a touch of salt, what's not to love?

Get the Recipe: Plantain Chips Patacones

Barbecued Short Ribs

These easy ribs are a traditional South American dish. A simple rub of salt and pepper and a quick splash of vinegar is all they need to for prep.

Get the Recipe: Barbecued Short Ribs of Beef - Tira de Asado

Chocolate Chile Cake

Cinnamon and cayenne add a bit of spice to this flourless chocolate cake.

Get the Recipe: Chocolate-Chile Cake

Arepas with Cheese and Corn

Arepas are a staple of Venezuelan and Colombian cuisine. Fill them with black beans or sour cream, or simply slice off a piece and pair it with butter.

Get the Recipe: Arepas with Cheese and Corn