9 delicious lent recipes from around the world
A traditional Dominican sweet corn pudding, often prepared during Lent and Easter. Chaca is made from cracked corn, simmered with milk, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and cloves, resulting in a creamy, comforting dessert.
A sweet and savory pastry, Empanadas de Chiverre are a beloved Costa Rican treat, especially popular during Lent and Easter. These turnovers are filled with a unique sweet filling made from chiverre (a type of squash) and panela (unrefined whole cane sugar), often spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
A sweet and creamy pink bean pudding, traditionally enjoyed during Lent and Holy Week. It's a beloved dessert that showcases a unique blend of sweet, creamy, and subtly spiced flavors.
A flavorful and comforting stew of salt cod simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce with peppers, onions, olives, and capers. While originating from Spain, this Dominican version often incorporates local nuances, making it a beloved dish, especially during festive seasons.
Sopa de Capirotadas is a traditional Honduran soup made with cheese dumplings simmered in a flavorful broth. The dumplings, made from cheese, eggs, and cornmeal or masa harina, are the star of the dish, offering a satisfying texture and a savory, slightly tangy taste. The broth is often tomato-based, infused with aromatic seasonings like garlic, onion, and cilantro, giving it a robust yet comforting flavor profile. While simple in concept, the dish is a true celebration of Honduran culinary tradition, balancing humble ingredients to create a meal that feels both hearty and elegant. This soup holds a special place in Honduran culture, often served during Lent as a meatless option that still feels indulgent. Its warm, inviting flavors make it a popular choice for family gatherings, where it's enjoyed as a main course or a starter for a larger meal.
A sweet and creamy dessert soup made with sweet potatoes, milk, coconut milk, and spices, often enjoyed during Lent.
A traditional Swedish Lent treat, the Semla is a sweet cardamom-spiced bun, sliced open, filled with a rich almond paste mixture, and topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream. Often enjoyed in a bowl of warm milk (hetvägg).
Aljotta is a traditional Maltese fish soup, particularly popular during Lent due to its meat-free nature. It's characterized by its rich flavor derived from using whole fish, along with garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.
A beloved sweet bean pudding, traditionally enjoyed during Lent, made with pink beans, coconut milk, sweet spices, and condensed milk.
