Paraguay
Food Safety Tips
Essential food safety information to help you enjoy Paraguay's cuisine safely and confidently.
Consume bottled or purified water.
Tap water in Paraguay may not be safe for consumption. Stick to bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Be cautious of street food.
While street food can be a delicious and affordable option, ensure the vendor maintains good hygiene practices. Look for busy stalls with high turnover and freshly cooked food.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Wash all fresh produce with purified water before consumption to remove any potential contaminants.
Ensure meat is cooked thoroughly.
Meat, especially pork and poultry, should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 74°C (165°F) to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Dietary Options
vegetarian
MEDIUM AVAILABILITYVegetarian options are becoming increasingly available in larger cities and tourist areas, but may be limited in rural areas. Traditional Paraguayan cuisine relies heavily on meat, but vegetarian alternatives using local ingredients like corn, beans, and vegetables are becoming more common.
vegan
LOW AVAILABILITYVegan options are less common than vegetarian ones. It can be challenging to find dishes completely free of animal products, especially in traditional settings. However, with careful planning and communication, it's possible to find vegan-friendly meals using fresh produce and plant-based staples.
gluten-free
MEDIUM AVAILABILITYMany traditional Paraguayan dishes are naturally gluten-free, relying on corn, cassava, and rice flour. However, cross-contamination can be a concern, so it's essential to communicate dietary needs clearly.
Common Allergens
Mani (Peanuts)
HIGH PREVALENCEPeanuts are a common ingredient in Paraguayan cuisine, especially in sauces and desserts. Be sure to inquire about the presence of peanuts in dishes if you have an allergy.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Leche (Milk)
MEDIUM PREVALENCEDairy products are used in various Paraguayan dishes, including desserts and some savory preparations. Check ingredient lists and inform restaurant staff about milk allergies.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Trigo (Wheat)
MEDIUM PREVALENCEWhile not as prevalent as corn or cassava flour, wheat is used in some baked goods and pastries. Be mindful of potential cross-contamination if you have celiac disease or a wheat allergy.
COMMONLY FOUND IN:
Essential Food Experiences
These iconic dishes represent the must-have culinary experiences that define Paraguay's food culture for travelers.
Sopa Paraguaya (Paraguayan Soup)
Despite its name, Sopa Paraguaya is a dense, savory cornbread. It's a national dish, rich with cheese, onions, and sometimes meat, cooked in a wood-fired oven. Its origins trace back to a culinary mishap in the 19th century, where a thick corn soup solidified, creating this beloved dish.
Chipa Guasu (Big Chipa)
Chipa Guasu is another corn-based dish, similar to a soufflé or casserole. It's made with fresh corn kernels, cheese, eggs, and milk, baked until golden. It's a popular side dish or snack, often enjoyed during festivals and celebrations.
Mbeju (Flatbread)
Mbeju is a traditional Paraguayan flatbread made from cassava flour, starch, and cheese. Cooked on a hot griddle, it has a crispy texture and a slightly chewy interior. It's a versatile food, enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or alongside main courses.
Regional Specialties & Local Favorites
Discover the authentic regional dishes and local favorites that showcase Paraguay's diverse culinary traditions.
Asado (Barbecue)
Asado is more than just a meal; it's a social gathering and a cornerstone of Paraguayan culture. Various cuts of beef, pork, and chorizo are grilled over an open fire, often accompanied by mandioca (cassava), salads, and chimichurri sauce. Asado is a symbol of hospitality and celebration, enjoyed with family and friends.
Milanesa
Milanesa, a thin, breaded cutlet of beef or chicken, is a popular everyday dish in Paraguay. It's typically pan-fried and served with various accompaniments, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or french fries. Milanesa is a versatile and affordable meal, enjoyed across the country.
Allergens:
Payagua Mascada
Payagua mascada is a traditional Paraguayan dish made from dried, shredded beef. It's rehydrated and cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices, resulting in a flavorful and hearty meal. Payagua mascada is often served with mandioca and is a staple in many Paraguayan households.
Regional Cuisine Highlights
Explore the diverse culinary landscapes across different regions of Paraguay.
Asunción and Central Department
The cuisine of Asunción, Paraguay's capital, and the surrounding Central Department reflects a blend of traditional and modern influences. Asado, sopa paraguaya, and chipa guasu are staples, alongside international dishes. The region's proximity to major agricultural areas ensures access to fresh produce and ingredients.
Cultural Significance:
As the nation's political and economic center, Asunción's cuisine showcases the evolution of Paraguayan food, blending traditional recipes with contemporary culinary trends.
Signature Dishes:
- Sopa Paraguaya
- Chipa Guasu
- Asado
Key Ingredients:
Itapúa Department
Itapúa, located in southern Paraguay, boasts a unique culinary heritage influenced by German and Ukrainian immigration. Dishes like borscht and pierogi coexist with traditional Paraguayan fare. The region is also known for its production of yerba mate and its diverse agricultural output.
Cultural Significance:
Itapúa's cuisine reflects the region's multicultural history, showcasing a fusion of European and Paraguayan culinary traditions.
Signature Dishes:
- Borscht
- Pierogi
- Sopa Paraguaya
Key Ingredients:
Alto Paraná Department
Alto Paraná, in eastern Paraguay, is known for its rich agricultural lands and its proximity to Brazil. The regional cuisine features a blend of Paraguayan and Brazilian flavors, with an emphasis on grilled meats, fresh produce, and hearty stews. The influence of Brazilian cuisine is evident in dishes like feijoada and pão de queijo.
Cultural Significance:
Alto Paraná's cuisine reflects the region's geographical location and cultural exchange with neighboring Brazil, resulting in a unique blend of culinary traditions.
Signature Dishes:
- Asado
- Feijoada
- Pão de Queijo
Key Ingredients:
Sweet Delights & Desserts
Indulge in Paraguay's traditional sweet treats and desserts.
Dulce de Leche (Milk Caramel)
Dulce de leche, a thick, sweet caramel made from slowly cooked milk and sugar, is a beloved dessert in Paraguay. It's used in various pastries, cakes, and alfajores, or enjoyed simply spread on bread or crackers.
Koserevá
Koserevá is a traditional Paraguayan sweet treat made from the rind of bitter oranges or grapefruits, cooked with sugar and spices until candied. It's a unique and flavorful dessert, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.
Pastafrola
Pastafrola is a popular Paraguayan pastry filled with quince or guava paste. The crumbly crust and sweet filling make it a delightful treat, often enjoyed with a cup of cocido or tereré.
Traditional Beverages
Discover Paraguay's traditional drinks, from locally produced spirits to regional wines.
Caña Paraguaya (Paraguayan Rum)
Caña Paraguaya is a sugarcane-based rum, a popular alcoholic beverage in Paraguay. It's often enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or used in cocktails. Its distinct flavor profile reflects the local sugarcane varieties and distillation methods.
Clericó
Clericó is a refreshing wine-based cocktail popular in Paraguay, especially during summer. It's made with red or white wine, fruits (such as oranges, peaches, and strawberries), and often a splash of soda or sparkling water. Clericó is a festive and convivial drink, perfect for social gatherings.
Soft Beverages
Discover Paraguay's traditional non-alcoholic drinks, from local teas to refreshing juices.
Tereré (Cold Yerba Mate)
Tereré is a traditional Paraguayan beverage made from yerba mate, infused with cold water and ice. It's a refreshing and social drink, shared among friends and family, especially during hot weather. Tereré is deeply ingrained in Paraguayan culture and is considered a national drink.
Cocido (Hot Yerba Mate)
Cocido is the hot version of yerba mate, prepared with boiling water. It's a comforting and stimulating drink, often enjoyed during cooler months. Cocido can be sweetened with sugar or honey and is a common breakfast beverage in Paraguay.
Refresco de naranja (Orange Juice)
Freshly squeezed orange juice is a popular and refreshing non-alcoholic beverage in Paraguay, readily available throughout the country. It's a simple yet satisfying drink, often enjoyed with breakfast or as a midday refreshment.