Eating Through Nicaragua

Posted by Timothy Dzurilla May 25, 2009

Nicaragua is Central America's largest country (129,494 sq km), but with a population of 5.5 million it's also the least densely populated. The country has a long history of oppression, revolution, counter-revolution, and amazing food. Despite the history of turmoil, Nicas (the local name for Nicaraguans) are some of the warmest people around.

"My country is a very happy place," Luis proudly says as we drive through the streets of the capital city, Managua. Seeing children playing, the curb-side grills and bubbling, steaming pots, and the families sitting together with their doors open to the world, Luis seems to have a point.

Nacatamales, ceviche, mondongo, stewed meats, gallo pinto and fresh tropical fruits are all on the menu as I travel through Nicaragua for the next few months searching out the best places to eat in the major cities as well as the most rural of communities.

Please leave comments if you have any suggestions on where to eat, what local fare to sample, or want to recommend any local organizations working towards an even happier future I should visit.