25 South American Street Foods Recipes | The Best Cheap Street Eats! (2024)

Did you know that street food existed around ten thousand years ago? Poor people who couldn’t afford to build stoves and ovens in their houses to cook certain dishes used to buy street food to be able to feed their families. Since then it spread like a wildfire to quickly become a normal thing in our lives, and the best part about it is that it brought cultures together.

I was raised in a home where we can only have homemade meals, but growing up, I started realizing that yes, my homemade meals are amazing, but who doesn’t love that guilty pleasure feeling that street foods give you, it’s like going on an adventure where you can sail through that sea of flavors and taste that no matter how you try, you can’t create anything like it.

They are a lot of regions that are famous for their street foods, but one of the best regions that are on top of my list is South American food. It’s rich with flavors, from sweet to savory and my favorite part is that it’s cheap!

I love food so much, but my favorite part is when it’s affordable and all people can afford it and enjoy it despite their backgrounds, and most importantly when I can create it in the comfort of my home and share it with my family.

This is why we curated for you the best 25 South American Streed foods that will surely please all palates and that you can easily prepare at home. So hold on tight, because this will be a long journey!

Vegetarian Tamales Recipe

Vegetarian Tamale is a simple recipe that combines the best ingredients of all worlds. A delectable combination of cheeses combined with veggies with a hint of spice and sweetness at the same time all wrapped in a blanket of corn dough.

It’s a very famous and light street snack that can also be altered a bit to become vegan by using vegan ingredients so everyone can enjoy it.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of dried corn husks
• 3 cups cornmeal masa harina
• 1 kosher salt pinch
• 1 to 2 cups vegetable stock (distributed)
• 2 tbsp of vegetable oil
• 1 large, coarsely chopped tomato
• 5 coarsely chopped medium green onions

Get the recipe here.

Authentic Street Taco Recipes

Can we finally have an international taco day when everyone can enjoy this delicacy?? If you haven’t tried tacos yet, that means you have been living under a rock for sure. It’s the most versatile, tasty, scrumptious, and good-looking street food you’ll ever taste.

Do you love chicken? Do you prefer beef? You can get both with this recipe and have your own taco day at home with your family. Thank me later!

Ingredients

• 4 tomatoes, cut into wedges
• 4 tomatillos
• 1 peeled and sliced yellow onion
• 8 cloves garlic
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 adobo-spiced chipotle pepper
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Get the recipe here.

Crispy Toasted Ravioli Recipe

Ravioli is by far my favorite pasta, so when I heard about toasted ravioli, I just couldn’t be more ecstatic! Toss it a combination of herbs and cheese, then toast it in the oven until it becomes golden brown.

You can serve it hot with some tomato sauce or any other dipping sauce of your choice, but I’m telling you that it will be a crowd pleaser sure. It’s so flavorful, soft, and mushy on the inside but crispy and crunchy on the outside.

This toasted golden beauty will spice up your life and your table for sure!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ravioli with fresh cheese (not frozen)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup plain panko breadcrumbs 2 tbsp water
• 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated (powder form works best)
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon kosher (coarse) salt

Get the recipe here.

LEARN MORE: How to Make Pizza Rolls Crispy in the Microwave (3-step Guide)

Cheese Tortellini in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

American street food at its finest, this mouthwatering Cheese Tortellini in Garlic Butter Sauce recipe will leave you craving more. It’s basically tortellini pasta smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce and then topped with melted cheese and fresh parsley. In other words, it’s heaven on a plate.

It’s the perfect dish for a casual or a movie night in with friends or family and can be on the table in just 30 minutes. If you’re looking for an easy and delicious street food recipe to impress your family and friends, look no further than this Cheese Tortellini in Garlic Butter Sauce!

Ingredients

• 32 oz. chicken or vegetable broth, divided (see note 1)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (see note 2)
• 1 package (16 oz.) frozen cheese tortellini (see note 3)
• 4 tbsp. melted butter (see note 4)
• 2 minced garlic cloves
• 2 tablespoons dried basil

Get the recipe here.

Italian Tortellini Skewers With Pesto Drizzle Recipe

Yes, you read it right, tortellini again! However, this time is Tortellini skewers charcuterie style, with a special pesto Italian dressing that will make you want to lick your fingers after.

It makes a great appetizer to serve at your next party and woo your guests, and at the same time, it makes an amazing recipe to try with your kids in the kitchen and enjoy some family time. One thing is for sure though, both your guests and kids will be begging for more!

Ingredients

• 1 package of 9-ounce cheese tortellini
• 1 package of fresh mozzarella balls or pearls (8 oz.)
• 1 package (10 oz.) of bite-size tomatoes
• 1 pepperoni (3-ounce package)
• 1 can (15 oz.) of large black olives, drained

Get the recipe here,

Pasta Chips Recipe

You heard it right, Pasta chips are real. They are golden, crunchy, so appetizing and the best part, they are much healthier than your regular potato chips.

Tossed with some olive oil, Italian herbs, parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of chili flakes to give it a nice kick and make you crave more with each bite you take.

Also, you prepare and serve it in less than 10 minutes! What else can you ask for?
PS: can we take a moment to appreciate how cute those little toasted bows are?

Ingredients

• 200 g short pasta (Farfalle was used)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• Chilli flakes
• 20 g Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese (optional)

Get the recipe here.

Toasted Ravioli Recipe

Did you try the cheese ravioli and loved it? Now it’s time to check the toasted beef ravioli, the queen of my heart because it tastes even better. Soaked in a mix of buttermilk and eggs and coated with a special mix of spices, herbs, and Italian bread crumbs. While you are baking it, be prepared for your house to be full of the incredible Italian-inspired recipe. It tastes even better than the one bought on the street.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 pound bag fresh or frozen beef ravioli*
• 1-quart buttermilk
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups bread crumbs (Italian)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon salt
• Oil from vegetables
• Marinara sauce
• freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Get the recipe here

Air Fryer Pasta Chips Recipe

Did you think I was done with pasta chips? Oh no! These chips are so underrated like you have no idea. Toss Barilla Rigatoni Pasta with parmesan and a nice mix of herbs and you will have a scrumptious snack ready in a matter of minutes!

Also, if you are an adventurous person, you can customize this recipe by changing the herbs and spices and trying new combinations every time you prepare it. It’s also vegan friendly, so you can simply replace the ingredients with vegan ones and follow the exact same steps and enjoy. Whatever you do with this pasta recipe, it will not let you down!

Ingredients

• 2 cup cooked pasta of your choice.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated
• salt to taste.

Get the recipe here

Mini Lasagna Cups Recipe

The world’s ultimate comfort food in cups, please welcome the crunchy but soft and flavorful lasagna cups! I love this recipe because these cups make for a very easy but extravagant, and nice-looking snack that leaves my guests demanding the recipe.

My favorite part about it as well is that it’s another easy recipe that I can prepare with my kids and simply have fun with them while filling it with our favorite toppings.

If you want to try a recipe, then please try this one for it is the ultimate crowd pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Olive oil,
• 2 Italian sausage links, without the casing
• 1 cup marinara sauce, either homemade or purchased
• 1-1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• Wrappers, 24 2-inch won ton
• 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley

Get the recipe here.

Chilean-style Empanadas De Pino Recipe

Empanadas de Pino: can we take a second to appreciate how classy and delicious this name sounds?

In reality, though, this Chilean-style empanadas de Pino is a cheap but delicious snack made of a savory filling of beef, pork, onions, and spices, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. It’s also very versatile, as you can choose to fry it or bake it.

Personally, I prefer the fried one because it tastes more crunchy. You can serve it with any dipping sauce salsa of your choice. I personally prefer a classic homemade tomato sauce. It’s an experience that you will never forget.

Ingredients

• 4 cup flour
• 1-1/2 teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons chilled lard vegetable shortening
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, chilled
• two egg yolks
• 1 cup of water

Get the recipe here

Pumpkin Sweet Potato Pierogis With Marshmallow Sauce and Pecans Recipe

I have to admit that since I can remember, I just hated sweet potatoes with a passion and didn’t understand what the hype is about. However, This recipe did the impossible and may have managed to persuade me to love it. I mean, we’re talking about a filling made of sweet potato, pumpkin, cinnamon, and marshmallow cream covered in a blanket of soft dough. How can you resist the irresistible?

Do you think I’m exaggerating? try it and see for yourself!

Ingredients

• 2 sweet potatoes baked
• 1 cup canned pumpkin
• 2 oz. unsalted butter + 2 oz. for cooking
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1 jar marshmallow cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• salt to taste

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: 15+ Moroccan Pumpkin Recipes Worth Trying (Gordon Ramsey’s Recipe Included!)

Easy Tamale Pie Recipe

Yes, we’re back to my lovely tamales, but this time it’s a golden pie with a lovely beef and beans filling that makes a great easy and simple pan meal to make when you are craving a comforting hearty meal. All of this is tied together with a lovely chili tomato sauce.

Pan meal? You heard it right, you need one pan to make the whole pie! It’s simply a delectable dish for all of your hectic weeknights that will quickly become a necessity in your house.

Ingredients

• 2 TB oil
• 1 minced onion
• 2-3 tablespoons chili powder
• salt kosher
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 pound 90% lean ground beef
• 1 (15 oz) can rinse and drained black beans
• 1 (14.5 oz) drained can of diced tomatoes

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE:

Cheeseburger Quesadillas Recipe

Quesadillas + Burgers = mind-blowing!

These quesadillas from Mexico have all of the flavors of a cheeseburger with the best taste quesadillas offer. I will just let you imagine how this combination will taste.

Seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, and diced onions are grilled to perfection between two tortillas. You can serve it as a weeknight dinner, on game day gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something from south of the border. So, fire up the grill and prepare for your mind to be blown!

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• ketchup, 1/3 cup
• 2 tbsp pickling juice
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard,
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• freshly ground black pepper and salt

Get the recipe here.

Apple Cider Smoked Pulled Pork Recipe

This Apple Cider Smoked Pulled Pork Recipe might look like it’s too much at the first glance, but it’s worth every single minute of your time. It starts by turning your kitchen into you an apple orchard that smells heavenly. Then you are rewarded with a super juicy and flavorful piece of meat.

The combination of the rub and spray gives the meat so much flavor, that it tastes incredible. Add to it the apple ketchup sauce and you will have a hard time keeping yourself from not taking a bite after the other. I know I did!

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
• 1/2 tablespoon pepper
• 1.5 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 tsp dried mustard
• 1 tablespoon cilantro
• 1 tablespoon of chili powder

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: Apple + Chia Bircher Muesli Recipe {Vegan, Dairy, Gluten + Sugar-Free}

Burrata Toast Recipe

This Burrata Toast combines creamy burrata, sweet peaches, and arugula before being topped with a balsamic glaze. The combination of the sweetness of the peaches with the tanginess of the balsamic vinegar makes it the ideal South American Street Food for all occasions such as breakfast, brunch, party…

This Burrata Toast Recipe is so easy to make and will have you eating this delectable South American dish in no time!

Ingredients

• 1/2 ciabatta roll
• 100 g burrata cheese
• 1 sliced peach
• 1-2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp. balsamic glaze
• a few arugula or rocket leaves
• salt to taste

Get the recipe here

Baked Potato Wedges Recipe

Are you looking for a mouthwatering side dish to accompany your meals? Try Your Hand at This Recipe for Baked Potato Wedges! If you are searching for something heavy and satisfying but still want to appreciate the exquisite flavors of South American cuisine, you will find that this is an excellent option to consider. The flavor in these potato wedges will not t let you down!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp. Italian seasoning (no salt)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• black pepper, freshly cracked

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: Blackberry, Hazelnut + Pear Baked Oatmeal Recipe {Vegan, Dairy, Gluten, Sugar-Free}

Air Fryer Empanadas: Beef Empanada Recipe

If you are looking for a delicious snack that can also serve as a side dish and might turn out to become the main dish because you simply can’t stop eating it, these empanadas are exactly what you are looking for.

The ground beef with onions and herbs makes for a very juicy filling that goes very well with the tortillas. All they take is 6 minutes in the air fryer to become these delicious juice and crispy empanadas that will please even the most difficult of palates.

Ingredients

• 4 flour tortillas, soft
• 1 pound beef ground
• 1/2 onion, finely chopped
• four tablespoons milk (or water).
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• 1 tablespoon flakes parsley (or finely chopped fresh parsley)
• Brushing lubricant

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE:15+ Simple Beef Stew Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings

Loaded Bbq Chicken Nachos Recipe

Greetings to the best Loaded BBQ Chicken Nachos ever!

These nachos are very easy to make and you can easily customize them to include all of your favorite toppings. I love diced tomatoes, green onions, and some spicy pickled banana peppers to spice it up. The only limit is your imagination, for whatever your add will taste even better with this BBQ chicken!

My favorite thing about this recipe though is that it can easily be doubled or tripled if necessary, and this BBQ chicken tastes amazing with tacos and burgers as well. So you better prepare because this is a crowd pleaser, so expect raves!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts,
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves,
• 1/2 shallot minced
• 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought barbecue sauce
• 1 diced Roma tomato
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 2 tbsp. soured cream
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE:15+ Chicken and Pasta Recipes (Perfect for Every Meal)

Fried Oyster Mushrooms (Vegan Fried Chicken) Recipe

We all have that vegan friend and family member that we don’t know what to prepare for when they come over. Well, the wait is over! These double battered fried oyster mushrooms are the perfect vegan side dish that both vegans and non-vegans will adore.

The spice combination adds a lot of flavor to the mushrooms. When double battered, they come out crispy and soft at the same time. It’s simply addicting when served with your favorite dipping sauce!

Ingredients

• Oyster mushrooms (150 g)
• 1-1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1-1/2 teaspoon powdered paprika
• 1-1/2 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1-1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon powdered turmeric
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: 10+ Easy Chicken Breast Recipes (From Breakfast to Dinner)

Chili Cheese Burritos Recipe

We all end up from time to time with leftovers chili, there is nothing to be shamed about. This Chili Cheese Burritos Recipe is here to save you! It will turn your leftover chill into a hearty, yummy burrito that you can serve at all times, whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

I personally think it makes a great quick lunch for when I’m working and don’t have the time to cook something else. This burrito is the perfect option because it’s filling and tasty!

What I love more about it though is that you can always change up the toppings and experiment with it, and it’s also the perfect chance to sneak into it some veggies for your kids. They will love it!

Ingredients

• 2 cups leftover chili
• 4 flour tortillas (10 inch) (“burrito” size)
• 2 cups rice, cooked
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• cilantro, finely chopped Serve
• salsa and sour cream if desired.

Get the recipe here

Brazilian Cheese Bread Recipe

Brazilian Cheese Bread is a food that everyone can enjoy. It’s a cheesy, delicious bread that will fill you up while leaving you wanting more.

Anyone can make it because the recipe is simple and easy to follow. You only need cheese, bread, and a few other ingredients. The end result is a delicious and cheesy bread that will have you wanting more. It’s also perfect to prepare on your days off, then simply freeze it for up to 3 weeks, and cook it whenever you are in the mood for a yummy cheesy snack!

Ingredients

• 1-quart whole milk
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 cups tapioca flour
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup shredded sharp or medium cheddar cheese

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: 10+ Delish Gingerbread Cookie Recipes to Get You in the Holiday Spirit

Coxinha (Brazilian Chicken Croquettes) Recipe

Looking for a delicious and crunchy snack? Look no further, Coxinha (Brazilian Chicken Croquettes) is what you need! It’s a fun and very popular street food in Brazil, it’s made of a very flavorful and creamy chicken salad shaped into croquettes and fried into perfection.

This recipe is very simple to make and cheap. You can enjoy it with some garlic aioli, apple jelly, or any other dipping sauce of your choice. It also serves as a great party snack for it will be a crowd favorite for sure!

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 pounds of skinless boneless chicken breasts (about 4 halves)
• 1 carrot, halved
• 4 to 5 cups of chicken broth
• 2 medium onions
• 2 bay leaves
• 8 oz. softened cream cheese
• 2 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp. melted butter

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: 20+ Chicken and Sweet Potato Fries Recipes

Smoked Pulled Pork Recipe

This Smoked Pulled Pork Recipe is the perfect easy meal for any day of the week. Made with just a few ingredients, you can either wrap the pork in foil, turn off the smoke, and slow cook it the rest of the way, or you can keep smoking it if you have time to spare.

Either way, you will end with a glorious and juicy piece of meat that makes a great main dish for a family gathering or a party.

Serve it with loads of barbecue sauce and enjoy! I personally like to add to it some grape or apple jelly for the sweetness combined with the saltiness of the meat make it tastes incredible!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup kosher salt,
• 1/4 cup onion powder
• 1/4 cup garlic powder
• 1/4 cup ground mustard
• 1/4 cup paprika
• 1 teaspoon chipotle powder
• Pork shoulder weighing 7 to 8 pounds

Get the recipe here

Neapolitan Style Pizza Dough Recipe

I always say that pizza is one of few things that as humans we did right. This miracle dish inserted itself into our lives to the point where most of us have to eat it at least once a week.
The twist is that this pizza dough will elevate your pizza and make it taste even better.

I am personally not a fan of thick and dense pizza dough, but unfortunately, lots of pizza places make it like that, so this dough is perfect in my opinion because it’s light, airy, and actually compliments the pizza toppings instead of overpowering it.

Also, I just love the fact that you can experiment with your toppings and let your imagination go wild. I once tried it with Sardines and I can’t stop saying how delicious it was. This recipe is super simple and easy to make, so you better dust off our oven and get to preparing it, but beware for once your try it, you will never look at other pizzas the same way!

Ingredients

• 20 ounces (approximately 4 cups) of bread flour
• 2 tsp. kosher salt
• 2-1/4 teaspoons dry yeast (1 standard packet)
• 13 ounces of water (13 ounces by weight or volume, it doesn’t matter)

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: How to Make Pizza Rolls Crispy in the Microwave (3-step Guide)

Chicken Taco Pie Recipe

If you need a tasty way to use up some leftover chicken, this recipe is ideal. Cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce with taco seasoning, the chicken is then combined with beans, corn, and cheese. Everything is baked in a pie crust that turns out so cheesy and mouthwatering, that your family and friends will be fighting to get the first share.

PS: This might just be the best dish you ever make!

Ingredients

• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder
• 1/4 cup plus 2 tbsp flour
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1-1/4 chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

Get the recipe here

LEARN MORE: 15+ Healthy Irish Chicken Recipes (My Favorite Is Number 5!)

Conclusion

Overall, these 25 South American Street Foods Recipes are an excellent choice for a quick and inexpensive meal and side dishes. And with so many delectable options, there’s bound to be something to satisfy everyone’s cravings, and leave them asking for more.

So, the next time you’re looking for something different, try some of South America’s street food favorites, but be aware for all it takes one recipe, and you will be hooked!