In Colombia, Chinese food is a widely popular, affordable gastronomic option which provides diners with generous portions. Across the country, there are approximately 1,500 Chinese restaurants, 300 of which are located in Bogotá. Although the flavors and techniques of authentic Chinese cuisine have been adapted to the Colombian palate, these restaurants have established themselves as accessible and delicious introductions to Chinese gastronomy.
Chinese food is incredibly popular in Colombia
Chinese restaurants have become very popular in Colombia due to their affordability and the abundant portions they offer. In many of these establishments, it is common for dishes to be served on large trays, ideal for sharing or even taking leftovers home. This characteristic has made Chinese food a recurring option for students, workers, and families looking for a satisfying meal without spending too much.
In shopping malls, it is common to find small food courts where Chinese restaurants have a strong presence. These eateries offer combo meals that include a protein (such as chicken, pork, or beef) accompanied by fried rice or noodles and stir-fried vegetables. The value for money of these restaurants has made them one of the most popular choices among diners.
Sr. Law, an iconic restaurant
One of the most emblematic Chinese restaurants in the country is Sr. Law, located in Ibagué. This establishment has gained recognition for offering a varied selection of Chinese dishes, including fried rice, chop suey, sweet and sour chicken, sweet and sour pork, and spring rolls.
The quality of its ingredients and its diverse menu have made Sr. Law a benchmark for Chinese food in Colombia, standing out for its offering that combines traditional dishes with more modern options.
Most common dishes you can have
Chinese food in Colombia has its particularities and has been adapted to local ingredients and tastes. Among the most common dishes in Colombian Chinese restaurants are:
Fried Rice: The Colombian version usually includes chicken, pork, shrimp, egg, scallions, and carrots, with a touch of soy sauce.
Chop Suey: A dish of stir-fried vegetables with chicken or beef, in a light, slightly thick sauce.
Sweet and Sour Chicken: Breaded chicken pieces in a red sweet and sour sauce, usually served with fried rice.
Sweet and Sour Pork: Similar to sweet and sour chicken, but with crispy pork pieces enrobed by the same characteristic sauce.
Spring Rolls: Deep-fried rolls filled with meat or vegetables, accompanied by tamarind or sweet and sour sauce.
Teriyaki Salmon: Although more associated with Japanese cuisine, this dish is common in some Chinese restaurants in the country.
Differences between Chinese food in Colombia and other countries
The Chinese food found in Colombia is quite different from what can be found in China or even in other countries with a large Chinese community, such as the United States or Peru. While in China, ingredients like fermented tofu, Peking duck, or rice noodles in broth are commonly used, in Colombia, the dishes have been adapted to use more accessible and familiar ingredients.
In countries like Peru, Chinese food has given rise to chifa cuisine, where Peruvian and Chinese flavors are uniquely fused. In contrast, in Colombia, Chinese food has been more oriented toward simplified and Westernized versions, with fewer spices and sweeter and saltier sauces.
Another aspect that differentiates Chinese food in Colombia is the abundance of fried rice in almost every menu. While in China, rice is consumed in many different ways, in Colombia, it is more common for all Chinese dishes to be accompanied by fried rice with chicken, pork, and shrimp.