Paraguay

Gastronomy of Paraguay

As in several countries in South America the gastronomy of Paraguay reflects the influences of different cultures that settled the country. On one hand, the traditions of the "Guaraní" which includes products of the own region such as corn, fish and wild boar meat among others. On the other hand, it reflects traditions of the Spanish and Portuguese cuisines including ingredients such as rice, flour and beef.

A very important element in the Paraguayan cuisine are soups prepared mainly with meats and vegetables. The "Sooyo Sopy" a thick soup prepared of ground meat and usually served with noodles or rice and the "sopa paraguaya" (the Paraguayan soup) is prepared with corn bread with cheese and onions.

The "Chipa" is a traditional dish made of manioc bread with egg and cheese. And of course the "Parillada" which is an important element and social event in different countries in South America such as Argentina and Uruguay. The traditional parillada consists of various cuts of meats prepared over coals.

Among the most traditional desserts of Paraguay is the "dulce de mamón" or papaya besides the popular rice pudding and fruit cake.

The national drink is the "Mate" (tea prepared with mate herbs). The Paraguayans are also main consumers of coffee and beer.