National Dish Colombia: Bandeja Paisa (Recipe)
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Say hello to Bandeja Paisa, the generous, table-filling platter that Colombians proudly call their national dish. Piled high with red beans, rice, chorizo, crispy pork belly, sweet plantain and a slice of creamy avocado, it is less a single recipe than a whole feast served on one tray. Born in the mountainous Antioquia region, this hearty spread is a celebration of Colombian farm life and warm-hearted hospitality. Bring the flavours of the Andes to your own kitchen with this classic.
About Bandeja Paisa
Bandeja Paisa is far more than a meal; it is a gastronomic journey through the rich culture of Colombia. As the country’s national dish, it captures the essence of the Andean region and reflects a proud agricultural heritage and the culinary variety of this South American land. What makes it so special is the combination of savoury flavours and filling ingredients — beans, rice, chorizo, avocado and much more — all served together on a single tray, the bandeja. It is a feast for the senses and a symbol of the generosity of Colombian hospitality.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 150 g red beans, soaked
- 1 ripe plantain
- 150 g pork belly
- 2 chorizos
- 2 slices of blood sausage
- 100 g ground maize for arepas
- 2 eggs
- 1 ripe avocado
- 200 g cooked white rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil, for frying
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for bandeja paisa, the quality of the cured meats makes all the difference. Look for authentic chorizos and blood sausage to give the dish its true flavour. Ideally the beans should be soaked overnight, so plan ahead. Choose a ripe plantain that cooks easily and lends a natural sweetness. Most of these ingredients can be found at a Latin American grocery, and dried red beans are a staple of Colombian cuisine that keep well in the cupboard.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, all the ingredients should be prepped and ready. That means the beans soaked, the sausages sliced and the pork belly to hand. The arepas can be part-baked in advance and then warmed through just before serving. This saves time and makes it much easier to get the timing right as you bring the individual components together.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cook the soaked beans until tender, then season with salt and pepper.
- Fry the sliced plantain in hot oil until caramelised.
- Prepare the arepas according to the packet instructions.
- Fry the pork belly until crisp, then set it aside.
- Fry the chorizos and blood sausage until browned.
- Fry the eggs to your liking — a sunny-side-up or lightly fried egg works best.
- Now it is time to assemble the bandeja paisa: place a little rice on the plate, then the beans, plantain, arepas, pork belly, the sausages, the egg and finally the slices of avocado.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Bandeja paisa is naturally free of dairy, and with a couple of easy swaps it can be gluten-free too. Traditional arepas are made from maize rather than wheat, so they suit a gluten intolerance perfectly — just double-check that any shop-bought sausages carry no wheat-based fillers. Serve the platter as it is for a lactose-free feast, and everyone at the table can tuck in without worry.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
While the classic version is a meat lover’s plate, bandeja paisa adapts well for vegetarians and vegans. Swap the sausages and pork belly for grilled vegetables or crisp cubes of fried tofu, and the beans, rice, plantain and avocado still carry plenty of flavour. Leave off the egg for a fully plant-based version, and season the beans generously so they remain the hearty heart of the dish. Much like a warming bowl of Frijoles con Carne, the beans can easily become the star.
More tips and tricks
For an extra layer of flavour, scatter a little chopped coriander over the beans. Getting the plantain to just the right point is key — it should be soft inside and golden brown outside. And don’t worry if you can’t get every component hot at exactly the same moment; bandeja paisa is traditionally served warm rather than piping hot, so there is no need to rush.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Vegetarians can replace the sausages and pork belly with grilled vegetables or fried tofu cubes. If you like things spicier, add a fiery salsa or lift the beans with a pinch of cumin. You can also adjust the balance of the plate to suit your appetite — more rice for a filling meal, or extra avocado for a fresher, creamier finish.
Ingredient substitutions
If chorizo or blood sausage are hard to find, other well-seasoned sausages make a good stand-in. A sweet potato can stand in for the plantain and brings a similar natural sweetness. And if you fancy a richer, saucier bean base, a spoonful from a Cazuela de Frijoles works beautifully alongside the platter.
Drink pairing ideas
A cold lager pairs wonderfully with the rich, savoury flavours of bandeja paisa. For an alcohol-free option, serve a glass of Colombian limonada de panela or a freshly brewed cup of Colombian coffee. A light, refreshing drink helps balance the heartiness of this generous platter.
Serving and presentation ideas
Traditionally, bandeja paisa is served on a large platter that beautifully showcases the variety of components. Create a colourful display by arranging the ingredients in separate sections, with the rice and beans as the base. Garnish with a wedge of lime and a sprig of coriander to add a touch of green and a fresh, inviting finish.
A bit of history
Bandeja paisa is a cornerstone of Colombian cuisine and offers a flavourful journey through the country’s traditions and abundance. Its origins reach back to the colonial era, when the everyday dishes of working people formed its foundation. The hearty combination was built to fuel a long day of labour in the fields and mountains. Today it is a much-loved meal, cherished in restaurants and homes alike, celebrating the identity of a nation.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Bandeja Paisa
Bandeja paisa is more than just a dish; it is a culinary experience that captures the flavour and culture of Colombia. With its hearty mix of beans, rice, meats and fresh avocado, it is an absolute treat for the senses. Whether you serve it as a leisurely weekend feast or a proud centrepiece for guests, bandeja paisa brings colour and generosity to any table. Let this Colombian classic inspire you and give it a try — your taste buds will thank you.
