One of the joys of our new Grand Voyage, an 87-night ‘Amazon & Antarctica Adventure’, is the opportunity to discover the flavours that make each destination so distinctive. These dishes offer a delicious introduction to South America’s rich and varied food culture, with local specialities revealing something of the places, traditions and people encountered throughout the voyage.
Feijoada – Brazil
One of Brazil's best-known dishes, feijoada is a hearty black bean and pork stew, traditionally served with rice, collard greens, farofa and orange slices. Rich and comforting, it offers a taste of the country's wonderfully varied culinary traditions.
Tambaqui – Amazonian Brazil
As you travel into the Brazilian Amazon, freshwater fish becomes an important part of the local cuisine. Tambaqui is one of the region's best-known varieties and can be grilled, roasted or served in a flavoursome fish stew. It's an authentic taste to look out for while exploring destinations such as Santarém and Manaus.
Empanadas – Argentina
Golden pastry filled with combinations of meat, cheese or vegetables, empanadas are one of Argentina's most recognisable foods. Recipes differ from region to region, making them an ideal snack or light meal to enjoy while discovering Buenos Aires and beyond.
Centolla – Chilean Patagonia
In the far south of Chile, centolla, or king crab, is one of the standout specialities of the Magallanes region. Prized for its sweet, delicate meat, it is often served simply so its natural flavour can take centre stage. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a seafood dish, it offers a memorable taste of Patagonia.
Chivito – Uruguay
A much-loved Uruguayan classic, the chivito is a generous steak sandwich traditionally filled with slices of beef and a selection of accompaniments such as ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato and egg. Hearty, satisfying and full of flavour, it's a dish well worth seeking out while exploring Montevideo.
The tropical fruits of the Amazon are another highlight. Look out for:
Açaí
A dark purple Amazonian berry with a rich flavour, açaí is often served sweet elsewhere in Brazil, but traditionally enjoyed with fish and cassava in parts of the Amazon.
Cupuaçu
Native to the Amazon rainforest, cupuaçu has a creamy pulp and sweet-tangy flavour, and is commonly used in juices, ice creams and desserts.
Guava
Sweet and fragrant, guava is enjoyed fresh, in juices and desserts, or made into the much-loved Brazilian sweet, goiabada.
Passion fruit
Known as maracujá in Brazil, passion fruit has a distinctive sweet-tart flavour and is widely used in refreshing juices and creamy desserts.
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