Changua is a typical dish from the Andean region of Colombia, especially popular in Bogota and the departments of Cundinamarca and Boyacá. It is a hot soup made with milk, water, egg, and scallions, which has been a traditional breakfast in local households for generations.
Due to its unusual mixture of ingredients, this dish is either loved or loathed. In Colombia’s Caribbean coast, for example, it is not commonly consumed.
The origins of Changua, Colombia’s traditional breakfast soup
Changua has its roots in Colombia’s Muisca culture. The Muiscas consumed similar preparations made with water and herbs. With the arrival of Spanish colonizers in Colombia, milk and eggs were added to the dish, giving rise to the current recipe. Later, the soup became a popular option among farmers and workers. Ideal for the capital city’s cold mornings, it is easy to prepare and has a high energy value.
Ingredients
Changua is made with simple ingredients, making it accessible to everyone:
Milk
Water
Eggs
Scallions (spring onions)
Fresh cilantro
Salt to taste
Calado (a typical Colombian toasted bread, optional)
Changua is served hot in a deep bowl, with a poached egg floating on the surface. It is garnished with freshly chopped cilantro and accompanied by calados, toasted bread, or almojabanas. In some places, grated white cheese is added to give it a creamier and saltier touch.
The best places to eat Changua in Bogota
The price of changua in Bogota varies depending on where it is consumed. In traditional restaurants and renowned bakeries, the dish can cost between 10,000 and 20,000 pesos (approximately US$2.4 to US$4.8). In more exclusive or touristy places, the price may be higher.
If you want to enjoy authentic changua, here are some of the best places to try it in Bogota:
La Puerta Falsa (Calle 11 #6-50): An icon of Bogotá’s gastronomy, famous for its cozy atmosphere and its changua prepared with a traditional recipe.
El Kiosco Cafe Georgiano (Calle 145 #9-71): Offers a variety of traditional Colombian dishes, including homemade-style changua.
La Puerta de la Tradicion (Calle 11 #6): A restaurant specializing in traditional cuisine, serving well-prepared changua that stays true to its origins.
Panaderia La Universal (Calle 2 #31-48): A landmark establishment with ancestral recipes and a family-friendly atmosphere. Its changua is considered one of the best in the city.