The department of Boyaca, located in the Andean region of Colombia, is known not only for its historical and cultural richness, but also for its gastronomy, which has endured thanks to the strong rural roots of its people and the generosity of its fertile land. Dishes from Boyaca mostly rely on Colombia-native ingredients such as the many varieties of potatoes, Andean tubers, meats, grains, dairy products, and fruits.
Five iconic dishes from Boyaca department, Colombia
Cocido Boyacense
One of the most representative dishes is cocido boyacense, a hearty and traditional preparation typically served during family gatherings or festivals. This stew is made with several types of potatoes (criolla, sabanera, pastusa), accompanied by cubios, chuguas, fava beans, peas, cabbage, and pork or beef. All the ingredients are simmered slowly so the flavors blend together perfectly. It is served hot, accompanied by ají (spicy sauce), Boyacense arepas, and occasionally white rice. It’s a generous, abundant meal that reflects the hospitality of the Boyacense table.
@lamochiladelore Lo más delicioso de Boyacá 🤤 ¿lo probarías? Si ya lo probaste ¿Te gustó? #cocidoboyacense #Boyacá #Boyacaesparavivirla #boyacá_en_el_lente #boyacaenunafoto ♬ Estrellita Errante – Los Dotores De La Carranga
Mute Boyacense
Mute boyacense is another traditional dish that warms both body and soul. It is a thick soup made from peeled corn, cooked for several hours until it softens and takes on a creamy texture. Potatoes, chickpeas, beef (and sometimes pork), plantain, onion, garlic, and spices like cumin and cilantro are added. Mute is typically served with arepas or slices of ripe plantain and is especially appreciated in rural areas, particularly during cold seasons.
@maybonillaa haciendo mute boyacense una delicia 😋 #recetas #receta #recetasfaciles #delicioso #food #comida #colombiana #fyp #video #apoyame #viral #cocina #cocinando #rico ♬ sonido original – M A Y 👸🏻
Puchero Boyacense
Puchero boyacense is also deeply rooted in the high plains culinary tradition. Although it shares some ingredients with cocido, puchero is distinguished by the way it’s served and by its mix of meats, including chicken, pork, sausage, and beef. It also features tubers such as yuca, ripe plantain, and several types of potatoes, along with cabbage. The broth is served separately, while the meats and vegetables are arranged on a separate platter. It is typically accompanied by homemade aji, rice, and arepas. This dish is commonly enjoyed on Sundays or during special celebrations.
Chicharron de Cuajada
A true gem of Boyacá’s traditional sweets is chicharron de cuajada, a dessert made by reducing two blocks of panela (unrefined cane sugar) in two cups of water along with chunks of cuajada (fresh cheese curd) until the curd is caramelized—some also add cloves for flavor. This delicacy is served with a melado (panela syrup) infused with cinnamon and cloves, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy texture of the curd and the sweet syrup. It is usually served warm. This dessert reflects the region’s dairy heritage and is loved by both locals and tourists.
@malejabestial ¿Cual es el dulce tradicional colombiano que ustedes más aman? 🇨🇴🤩 Chicharrón de cuajada, un dulce típico Colombiano que todos amamos comprar y comer en cada viaje familiar, muy fácil. ✅ Ingredientes: – 1 kilo de cuajada – 300g de panela – Canela al gusto – Y mucho amor ❤️ #chicharron #dulce #postre #tradicional #gastronomia #Colombia #bogota #tolima #medellin #barranquilla #cartagena #cali #recetasfaciles #recetas ♬ sonido original – Maleja Bestial | Recetas
Feijoa Dessert
Another standout in the dessert category is dulce de feijoa, made from this unique fruit native to the highlands and especially cultivated in towns like Tibasosa. To prepare it, the feijoas are cooked in syrup with sugar, cloves, and cinnamon until a thick, aromatic mixture is obtained. The dessert can be served as a jam or in whole chunks and is often paired with queso campesino (country-style cheese) or fresh cuajada. Its sweet and tangy, slightly perfumed flavor makes it a delightful experience for the palate.
@editogomez Arequipe de Feijoa 🤢
Arepa Boyacense
The Boyaca arepa is one of Colombia’s finest regional delicacies. Made primarily from yellow or white corn, this traditional arepa is often thicker and heartier than others found in the country. It’s typically grilled or cooked on a clay griddle, giving it a distinct smoky aroma and crisp exterior. Inside, it remains soft and dense, sometimes filled with fresh cheese for added richness. Unlike the coastal or Antioquian versions, Boyaca arepas are rarely fried or sweetened, preserving their earthy, authentic taste. A staple in the Andean diet, they’re enjoyed with hot chocolate, soups, or simply buttered.