In Colombia there are emblematic foods that are not only recognized in the world, but they stand out for the flavors that represent and reflect our culture. Among them, we find this delicious dish, which in a single bite captures the essence of the country, attracting thousands of tourists who come to enjoy and live this unique gastronomic experience.
La Posta Cartagenera is one of the most emblematic dishes of the gastronomy of the Colombian Caribbean. Its traditional preparation combines cuts of beef marinated in a mixture of local spices, citrus juices and herbs that give it a deep and unique flavor, representing the cultural and culinary richness of Cartagena.
According to My Colombian Recipesits flavor is characterized by the perfect combination of sweet and salty, with a touch of spices that highlight the freshness of the ingredients. The meat is tender, juicy and full of nuances, while the sauces that accompany it provide aromas that invite you to try each bite with enthusiasm and curiosity.
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Posta Cartagenera
Source: IStock
For its part, it is mainly served in typical food restaurants, gastronomic plazas and hotels that seek to offer authentic experiences of the region.. It is also common to find it at cultural festivals and gastronomic events, where tourists and locals delight in its traditional presentation, which reflects the history and identity of the Caribbean coast.
What makes this dish so appreciated by tourists is not only its taste, but the complete experience it offers. Each bite transports the diner to the flavors of Cartagena, evoking the warmth of its people, the richness of its history and the authenticity of its culture. Its popularity lies in its ability to make those who try it fall in love with the city through its gastronomy.
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How is Posta Cartagenera prepared?
La Posta Cartagenera is prepared with care to achieve that characteristic flavor of the Colombian Caribbean. Nestle Recipes explains step by step:
1. Meat selection: Lean beef is used, usually cuts such as pork or loin, cut into thick pieces or fillets.
2. Marinated: The meat is marinated for several hours (sometimes overnight) in a mixture of garlic, scallion, cumin, pepper, sour orange or lemon juice, vinegar, soy sauce, and local herbs such as cilantro or bay leaf. This step adds flavor and tenderizes the meat.
3. Slow cooking: It is then cooked over low heat or baked slowly, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors and become very tender. Some versions include adding a little panela or brown sugar to give a sweet touch.
4. Sauce: At the end, a sauce is prepared with the same marinade, reducing the meat juices and mixing with tomatoes, onion, peppers and, sometimes, a touch of wine or broth. The sauce is poured over the meat before serving.
5. Accompaniments: It is traditionally served with white rice, patacones, yuca, fried plantain or fresh salad, enhancing the experience of Caribbean flavors.
What other flavors can it be accompanied with?
La Posta Cartagenera is usually accompanied with flavors that complement its richness and soften its intensity. Some traditional options are:
White rice: Basic and neutral, it allows the flavor of the meat and sauce to stand out.
Patacones or fried plantain: They provide crunchy texture and a sweet touch that balances the spices.
Cooked or fried yucca: It adds softness and a slightly earthy flavor that pairs very well with the meat.
Fresh salads: such as tomato, onion and avocado, to provide freshness and contrast.
Corn arepas: typical of the Colombian Caribbean, which complete the regional gastronomic experience.
