Food and culture are intertwined and as eating is a universal activity, it is a great way to experience a new destination. In South America the individual dishes vary but there are some key ingredients which span the continent – maize, rice and meat. Many of the dishes below are served with one or more of these ingredients as a side dish. There is also variation between the coastal and highland dishes, mainly as the highlands experience cooler temperatures. There are endless dishes to try but if you’re not staying for long, you might not get to sample all of them. These are the dishes that deserve a taste whatever the length of your stay.