Top 10 Puerto Rican foods you've got to try

By Jailyn R.

After buying food from the food truck rally for Hispanic Heritage Month, held on Friday, October 17 during lunch, I noticed there was food I wanted to try that wasn’t available. The trucks mostly sold tacos and burritos, which are associated with Mexico but not other Hispanic cultures, but I realized they don’t offer the Puerto Rican dishes you might see at parties or make on a daily basis. So, in honor of celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at AHS, I wanted to make a list of Puerto Rican foods you have to try. As a person of Puerto Rican heritage myself, I feel qualified to list these top foods.

10. Asopao de Pollo

A hearty and comforting chicken and rice stew, this dish is a cross between a soup and paella. It tastes especially good when the weather is cold or if you’re feeling sick.

9. Pastelón

Pastelón is like a Puerto Rican lasagna. It is a casserole with layers of thinly sliced, fried sweet plantains, seasoned ground meat (picadillo), and cheese.

8. Lechón Asado

Lechón Asado is a whole roasted suckling pig. It is a traditional holiday food and a major part of the island’s culinary culture.

7. Tostones

Tostones have a starchy and crispy texture that makes them the perfect accompaniment to many Puerto Rican meals. You can add garlic and serve them with a sauce made of ketchup, mayo, and garlic powder for the ultimate experience.

6. Bacalaitos

Crispy, deep-fried codfish fritters, bacalaitos are often served as an appetizer or street-side snack. They taste great on any occasion.

5. Mofongo

Mofongo is made from fried and mashed green plantains with garlic and pork cracklings. Even though it has simple ingredients, they combine into a rich, flavorful dish. You can also customize it with the meat of your choice.

4. Arroz con Gandules

As the unofficial national dish, arroz con gandules represents Puerto Rican culture, pride, and community. It has a rich, savory flavor and aroma, making it a beloved staple at holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.

3. Pernil

Pernil is a slow-roasted pork shoulder and an iconic holiday dish, known for its tender, fall-off-the-bone meat and crispy skin. Even outside of holidays, it can be enjoyed on any occasion.

2. Pasteles

Pasteles are especially popular during the Christmas season and are more than just a dish; preparing them is a multi-generational family event. They taste amazing when eaten with arroz con gandules and a little ketchup. Eating pasteles during the holidays is a cherished tradition.

1. Alcapurrias

I might be biased, but these are some of the best Puerto Rican foods I’ve ever eaten. Alcapurrias are crunchy, deep-fried fritters made from a batter of green bananas and taro root, typically stuffed with picadillo, seasoned ground meat. All of these flavors combine to create a truly delicious dish.

I asked Aurora B., a student at AHS, what her favorite Puerto Rican food is. Her response was, “My favorite food would be pasteles. They’re so good!”

Thank you for reading about the top Puerto Rican foods you have to try. I hope this helps you decide which delicious dishes to try next, whether at a Puerto Rican restaurant or by making them yourself. I hope this article inspires you to explore and enjoy Puerto Rican cuisine.