If you’re planning a trip to Chile, one of the things you absolutely must do is try the seafood! With a long coastline along the Pacific Ocean, Chile offers a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes that are sure to delight your taste buds. Here are the top 7 must-try seafood dishes in Chile to taste during your visit:
Erizos
Erizos, or sea urchins, are a popular delicacy in Chile. They have a sweet and briny flavor and a creamy texture. One popular dish is Erizos al Horno, where the sea urchin is baked with butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Another popular preparation is Erizos Crudos, where the raw sea urchin is served with lemon juice and a sprinkle of salt.
Piures
Piures, or sea squirts, have a unique flavor that is often described as a combination of sweet and salty. One popular dish is Ensalada de Piures, which is a salad made with chopped piures, onion, cilantro, and tomato. Another popular preparation is Empanadas de Piure, where the sea squirts are mixed with onion, garlic, and spices, and then stuffed into a pastry shell and baked.
Picorocos
Picorocos, or barnacles, have a rich and savory flavor that is often compared to lobster or crab. One popular dish is Picorocos al Pil Pil, where the barnacles are sautéed in spicy garlic and paprika sauce. Another popular preparation is Picorocos con Salsa de Limón, where the barnacles are served cold with a tangy lemon sauce.
Ostiones
Ostiones, or scallops, are popular seafood in Chile. They have a delicate flavor and a tender texture. One popular dish is Ostiones Gratizados, where the scallops are topped with a mixture of butter, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, and then baked in the oven. Another popular preparation is Ceviche de Ostiones, where the scallops are marinated in lime juice, onion, cilantro, and chili, and then served cold.
Centolla
Centolla, or king crab, is a popular delicacy in Chile. One of the most popular dishes featuring Centolla is ensalada de Centolla, centolla meat, chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Another popular dish is Chupe de Centolla, which is a baked dish that features crab meat mixed with bread crumbs, cream, and cheese. Centolla is commonly found in Patagonia.
Locos
Locos, or abalone, are a type of shellfish that are native to the Chilean coast. They have a firm texture and a slightly sweet flavor. One popular dish is Locos con Mayonesa, which features shellfish served cold with a simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. Another popular dish is Locos al Pil Pil, where the locos are sautéed in spicy garlic and paprika sauce.
Machas
Machas, or razor clams, are popular seafood in Chile. They have a delicate flavor and a firm texture. One popular dish is Machas a la Parmesana, where the razor clams are topped with a mixture of butter, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, and then baked in the oven. Another popular preparation is Machas a la Plancha, where the razor clams are grilled with a touch of olive oil and served with a squeeze of lemon.
Chile offers a wide variety of delicious and unique seafood dishes. From the sweet and delicate flavor of piures to the bold and spicy flavors of locos al Pil Pil, there is a dish to please every seafood lover’s palate. Don’t miss the opportunity to try these top 7 seafood delicacies on your next trip to Chile. Your taste buds will thank you.
