50 Columbian Tea-Time Treats

<p>Colombian tea-time treats reflect the country's vibrant culinary culture with an emphasis on simple yet flavorful ingredients. One of the most popular snacks is <em>arequipe</em> (or dulce de leche) a creamy caramel spread that's often enjoyed with crackers or stuffed inside pastries like <em>alfajores</em> which are shortbread cookies filled with sweet caramel. Another favorite is <em>pan de bono</em> a cheesy chewy bread made from tapioca flour and cheese often served warm and enjoyed with a cup of tea. <em>Pandebono</em> pairs perfectly with a cup of <em>tinto</em> (black coffee) a Colombian tea-time classic. <em>Empanadas</em> are also a staple often filled with meats potatoes or cheese and fried to golden perfection making them a savory option for an afternoon snack.</p><p></p><p>In addition to these savory treats Colombian tea-time includes a variety of sweet pastries and cakes. <em>Torta de tres leches</em> (three-milk cake) is a light moist sponge cake soaked in a mixture of evaporated milk condensed milk and heavy cream. <em>Arroz con leche</em> (rice pudding) is another comforting dessert enjoyed with tea flavored with cinnamon and sometimes raisins. <em>Galletas de soda</em> (soda crackers) are often served with butter or cheese making them a savory choice for pairing with hot beverages. Colombian tea-time treats also include tropical fruits like <em>mango</em> and <em>guava</em> which are enjoyed fresh or turned into jams and jellies. These flavorful treats reflect Colombia's blend of indigenous Spanish and African influences offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors perfect for any tea break.</p>