Puerto Rican Food: 21 Traditional dishes to Try in Puerto Rico or At Home

With a cuisine that has roots in several parts of the globe, Puerto Rico has some of the best food found in the Caribbean.

Eating your way around the island territory is a culinary adventure thanks to the diverse dining options on offer. Upscale restaurants are readily found in places like San Juan serving traditional cuisine with a twist. While the abundance of food trucks keeps the authentic flavors of Puerto Rico alive. The medley of flavors and creativity sets the cuisine apart and delights the tastebuds.

Traditional Puerto Rican Foods

Puerto Rican food is a fusion of African, Spanish, and indigenous Taino influences. It is known for its bold flavors and use of a variety of herbs and spices such as sofrito (a mix of onions, garlic, peppers, and cilantro), adobo, sazón, and oregano. From the national dish Arroz Con Gandules to scrumptious homegrown deserts, you’ll wake up each morning wanting to try something new. On the fence about traveling to Puerto Rico? Read our guide to why you should visit.

1. Empanadillas

Similar to Mexican Empanadas, Empanadillas are savory pastries and one of the best dishes to try in Puerto Rico. Beginning with a simple pastry base, the dish is then stuffed with seasoned meat (you can also use seafood or vegetables). You then fold it into half-moons and fry them in oil until golden brown.

Thinly chopped vegetables, garlic, and oregano are sometimes added for additional flavor. Once fried, Empanadillas tend to have a thicker crust than the Mexican dish.

Puerto Rican restaurants can sometimes switch out beef with seafood. Here is a great recipe if you want to make them at home.

2. Aranitas

The classic Puerto Rican food, Aranitas, is comprised of shredded, then fried, plantains. The word Aranitas arises from the Spanish word for ‘little spiders’. Indeed, this tasty savory dish looks like a mash of tiny critters.

But what it may lack in aesthetic appeal, Aranitas makes up for it with a crispy flavor. The ease of creation also allows those at home to bring a taste of Puerto Rico into their kitchens.

Alongside your hot and crunchy Puerto Rican dish, add a dip such as guacamole. Many restaurants around the territory will place a delightful garlic-infused sauce to complement the shredded plantains.

3. Alcapurrias

Sold at cuchifritos, aka traditional Puerto Rican restaurants that specialize in deep-fried foods, Alcapurrias is made with plantains and yucca and is made in a similar fashion to pasteles.

You combine…