Cultural discovery through Caldo de Patas

Caldo de Patas opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The bright and satisfying flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. Ecuador's position on the equator gives it extraordinary biodiversity of ingredients from coast, highlands, and Amazon. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that culantro is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a traditional home lunch setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. chicha de jora completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.