Latin American Culinary Trends Reflect Culture and Community in 2024
In 2024, Latin Americans loved their tasty food traditions ‒ people shared recipes that showed off a mix of different flavors, customs, and new ideas from all over the area. From warm, familiar dishes to joyful holiday favorites ‒ these meals bring people together with shared tastes and cultural joy.
Festive Favorites
Two-holiday staples dominated Latin American kitchens in 2024: pavo relleno al horno (baked stuffed turkey) and coquito boricua (Puerto Rican coquito).
For Thanksgiving and Christmas, pavo relleno became the centerpiece of family feasts. This roasted turkey, stuffed with savory blends of breadcrumbs, vegetables, and occasionally chorizo or tropical fruits, reflected the unique adaptations of Latin American cuisine. In Puerto Rico, the popular pavochón seasoning infused the turkey with roasted pork flavor, a nod to the island’s beloved lechón asado.
No holiday gathering was complete without a coquito. This creamy coconut-based drink, infused with rum and warming spices, is Puerto Rico’s answer to eggnog. Families gathered to share the festive beverage, often using closely guarded recipes passed down through generations. One Puerto Rican home cook stated, “Coquito isn’t just a drink—it’s a symbol of celebration and togetherness.”
Comfort Foods with Cultural Roots
Latin America’s comfort foods also trended high 2024, with dishes like ropa vieja cubana (Cuban shredded beef stew) and puré de papa (mashed potatoes) offering warmth and nostalgia.
Cuba’s ropa vieja, a hearty stew of shredded beef cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, symbolizes Cuban identity. The dish, often served with rice and fried plantains, connects families to their heritage. A Cuban chef told Harvard International Review, “Ropa vieja is more than food—it’s a story of resilience and flavor passed through generations.”
Meanwhile, puré de papa showcased how simple ingredients can be transformed into versatile comfort food. Latin American families added signature twists, such as garlic, cheese, or cream, elevating this classic side dish to a holiday must-have.
Sweet Indulgences
Desserts like pay de queso (Mexican-style cheesecake) and quesillo venezolano (Venezuelan flan) satisfied the region’s collective sweet tooth.
Pay de queso delighted with its creamy, tangy filling made from cream cheese and condensed milk, layered over a graham cracker crust. Popular at birthdays and holiday gatherings, this dessert embodied the accessibility and creativity of Latin American sweets.
Quesillo venezolano offered a firmer, egg-rich twist on traditional flan. With its caramel topping and silky texture, this dessert became a staple for special occasions. A Venezuelan baker told Harvard International Review, “Quesillo reminds us of the importance of preserving our culinary roots while adapting to modern tastes.”
Vibrant Savory Dishes: Chimichurri and Espagueti Verde
Savory dishes like chimichurri argentino and spaghetti Verde (Mexican green spaghetti) highlighted Latin America’s innovative use of herbs and spices.
Argentina’s chimichurri—a bold sauce made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar—remained a favorite accompaniment for grilled meats like asado. Its herbaceous flavor elevated backyard barbecues and formal dinners alike.
In Mexico, spaghetti verde mixes Italian pasta with Mexican tastes. With its smoky and tangy flavors, the creamy sauce made from poblano peppers turns spaghetti into a colorful side dish often enjoyed at weddings and festive gatherings.
Also Read: Cassava’s Cultural Recognition Inspires Latin America’s Global Unity
The trending recipes of 2024 reflected the diversity and richness of Latin American cuisine. Starting with festive meals and moving to daily comfort foods ‒ these dishes honored tradition and welcomed new flavors. As families keep sharing and changing these recipes, the cultural and social ties they show will keep Latin America’s food heritage alive for many years ahead.
