OVATION CARRIBEAN BISTRO
HEALTHY - GLUTEN FREE - VENEZUELAN
CACHAPAS
CACHAPAS
CACHAPAS
Cachapas are a traditional Venezuelan dish made from fresh corn, blended into a batter and cooked like a pancake. Sweet, golden, and slightly crisp at the edges, they offer a delightful contrast when paired with queso de mano, a creamy, soft white cheese unique to Venezuela. The natural sweetness of the corn complements the mild saltiness of the cheese, creating a rich and indulgent flavor combination. Typically served folded with queso de mano melting inside, cachapas are a beloved comfort food, enjoyed as a hearty breakfast, snack, or street food staple. additional fillings make it a versatile dish.
Patacón
CACHAPAS
CACHAPAS
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A Venezuelan patacón is a delicious sandwich-like dish that uses flattened and fried green plantains as the "bread." Popular in coastal and western regions of Venezuela, particularly in Zulia, patacones are filled with a variety of ingredients such as shredded beef, chicken, or pork, along with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, avocado, and sauces like garlic mayo or ketchup. The fried plantains, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, add a unique flavor and texture, making the patacón a savory and satisfying meal. This dish showcases Venezuela's love for plantains and creative street food culture.
AREPAS and TEQUEÑOS
AREPAS
An arepa is a traditional Venezuelan and Colombian dish made from cornmeal dough, which is formed into a round, flat disc and then cooked by baking, frying, or grilling. It has a crisp outer layer and a soft, fluffy interior. Arepas are incredibly versatile and can be served at any time of day, either as a breakfast, snack, or main meal. They are typically split open and filled with a variety of ingredients, including meats, cheeses, vegetables, and sauces, making them a highly customizable and popular food choice. While the basic arepa dough is gluten-free, the fillings can vary widely depending on personal preferences and regional variations. The arepa is a staple in Venezuelan cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide for its delicious taste and adaptability.
AREPA FILLINGS
- Reina Pepiada – A creamy filling made with shredded chicken, avocado, mayonnaise, and cilantro. This is one of the most beloved arepa fillings in Venezuela.
- Pernil – Slow-cooked, seasoned pork that is tender and flavorful, often paired with cheese or beans for extra richness.
- Carne Mechada – Shredded beef, typically cooked with tomatoes, onions, and peppers, creating a savory and flavorful filling.
- Queso de Mano – A fresh, soft Venezuelan cheese often paired with ham, creating a simple yet tasty combination.
- Dominó – A filling made with black beans and white cheese, a delicious vegetarian option.
AREPA BOWLS
Fried arepas shaped into bowls, often called arepa bowls or arepas fritas en forma de copa, are a creative twist on traditional Venezuelan arepas, combining their classic flavor with a fun presentation. These crispy, golden arepa bowls are formed by deep-frying the dough into a cup-like shape, making them perfect for holding traditional fillings. Popular options include shredded beef, black beans, plantains, grated cheese, and avocado, or even the creamy chicken and avocado mix known as reina pepiada. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, savory fillings, making fried arepa bowls a delightful way to enjoy the beloved Venezuelan staple in a unique and festive form.