🍽️ What to Eat in Puyo: Must-Try Traditional Amazonian Dishes

Volquetero: A Hearty Amazonian Ceviche

The volquetero is the most famous dish in Puyo, with an interesting origin story. According to locals, it was created by construction workers ("volqueteros") who needed a quick, high-energy meal during their long shifts. The dish is a delicious mix of chochos (lupin beans), tuna, plantain chips, onions, and tomatoes, all topped with a special tree tomato sauce that is mild and flavorful.

I personally love adding the entire portion of aji de tomate de árbol that comes on the side—it enhances the flavors without being too spicy. The portion is large, perfect for sharing between 3 to 6 people, depending on how hungry you are!

Maito: Amazonian Delicacy Wrapped in Bijao Leaves

Maito is one of the most traditional dishes of the Amazon. It's a tilapia fish fillet wrapped in a large "bijao" leaf and cooked over an open fire, allowing the flavors to infuse naturally. The fish is seasoned with wild garlic, Amazonian parsley, and salt. Some variations also include hearts of palm for extra flavor.

There’s also chicken maito, which is more like a soup, wrapped and cooked inside the leaf. I love how the bijao leaf gives it a distinct, earthy aroma—something you won’t find in any other dish.

Chontacuro: The Amazonian Delicacy

Chontacuros are large, nutritious larvae that grow inside the chonta palm tree. They are a key part of Amazonian gastronomy and are usually grilled on skewers, served with yucca and salad.

I know they don’t look very appetizing at first, but trust me—they’re delicious! Most people prefer to eat just the soft body and leave the head, but I personally love eating the whole thing. The head is crunchy, kind of like toasted corn, and gives a great contrast in texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you have to try it!

Ayampaco: A Flavorful Amazonian Package

Originating from Macas but also popular in Puyo, ayampaco is a dish where chicken is mixed with hearts of palm and wrapped in bijao leaves before being cooked over hot stones. This unique cooking method infuses the meat with smoky, herbal flavors. It is served with yucca, rice, and chili sauce for an extra kick.

Amazonian Drinks: Guayusa & Jamaica

To accompany your meal, try the traditional guayusa tea, made from Amazonian guayusa leaves. It is a natural energy booster, rich in antioxidants and has been used by indigenous people for centuries. Another great option is jamaica (hibiscus tea), a refreshing and lightly sweet beverage with health benefits.

Where to Savor These Delicacies in Puyo

• Uchumanka: Located on the road to Tarqui, Uchumanka offers an authentic Amazonian dining experience, specializing in traditional dishes like maito and chontacuro.​

• Samari Food: Located in Tarqui. 8 minutes from Puyo. This establishment provides a fusion of Amazonian flavors with modern culinary techniques, offering dishes like maito de tilapia in a cozy setting.​

• Fuego y Leña: Situated in the Miraflores neighborhood, Fuego y Leña is known for its traditional Amazonian cuisine, including their renowned maito de tilapia and maito de pollo dishes.​

Try these dishes during your visit to Puyo, and immerse yourself in the Amazonian culinary experience!

Thanks for reading! 😊