Admin
December 18, 2023
What better way to celebrate this holiday season than indulging in the traditional, authentic holiday flavors of Puerto Rico. Get ready to treat your taste buds and immerse yourself in culinary traditions like Coquito and Lechon!
Coquito
Coquito is a festive staple and traditional Puerto Rican drink during the holiday season. This creamy, rich drink is often shared amongst family and friends, with each household having their own unique recipe and secret ingredient. Coquito can be enjoyed straight from a chilled glass or used as a mixer in cocktails. The best place to grab coquito in Old San Juan if you don’t have someone to get a special mix from is at Chocobar Cortez! Here is a basic recipe if you want to make it at home.
Pasteles
Pasteles are a traditional Puerto Rican dish that holds a special place in the hearts and palates of those who taste them. Pasteles can be made with a mixture of grated root vegetables, such as yuca, plantains, or taro, combined with a seasoned meat filling, wrapped in a banana leaf, and then boiled or steamed. Often enjoyed during the holiday season, making pasteles is a labor of love that brings families together in the kitchen to share stories and pass down cherished recipes. It’s best to make this at home with friends but if you’re looking for a hassle free taste test check out Cafe El Punto in Old San Juan they serve them on their menu!
Here is a Pasteles recipe that you can try out at home this holiday season.
Lechón
Lechón is a festive dish that holds a special place in Puerto Rican culture, particularly during the holiday season. It refers to a whole roasted pig cooked over an open fire or in a specially designed roasting box. The tradition of serving lechon goes back centuries, and it remains a centerpiece at holidays, weddings, and other special occasions. Lechón is one of the most iconic dishes of PR, when the holiday season rolls around you can find pop-up lechoneras on the streets of Old San Juan!
Tembleque
Tembleque is a traditional Puerto Rican holiday dessert that is simple in composition but rich in flavor. Tembleque is a creamy and silky pudding that is often served alongside other festive dishes like lechon and pasteles. The dish is named after the tremble or “wobble” of the pudding, which comes from its custard-like texture. It is often garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or toasted coconut flakes to add more texture. You can find this specialty dessert in most places during the holiday season, even gas stations. However if you are looking for a dining experience to go along with it El Jibarito has some of the best Tembleque in Old San Juan! If you want to make it at home here is a recipe we recommend.
