Honduras is a Central American country located between the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Since this country has a rainy, tropical climate, many fruits, vegetables, and legumes thrive in the region, and they appear as ingredients in several regional dishes. Review this brief guide to learn more about Honduran food and drinks you might notice on the menu when dining at a South American restaurant. 

Honduran Food Staples

Rice, beans, and plantains grow well in Honduras, which is why they figure into so many of the country's dishes. One detail that sets Honduran food apart from Mexican cuisine is its frequent use of plantains, which restaurants typically serve baked or fried. Roasted meats, such as carne asada or chicken, are also popular, and Hondurans regularly enjoy scrambled eggs and white cheese. Additionally, tomatoes, avocados, and yucca root are common ingredients used in Honduran meals. 

The national dish of Honduras is plato típico, which features rice and beans combined with cheese, plantains, and roasted meats. Local restaurants often serve it for lunch and may add eggs and avocados to make it more filling. You might also notice this dish served with hot sauce, which you can pour on top for a spicy kick. 

Baleadas, which are commonly served for breakfast, are also staples. They consist of thick wheat flour tortillas filled with scrambled eggs, refried beans, and roasted meat and then topped with white cheese and semisweet cream. You can make this dish vegetarian-friendly by ordering it sin carne, which means without meat.

Seafood is also popular in Honduras, thanks to its location on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Seafood conch soup, known as sopa de caracol, features conch meat stewed with yucca root and tomatoes and sweetened with coconut milk. Variations of this dish may use fresh fish, shrimp, or lobster instead of conch. Fried fish, such as freshwater bass, served whole is another Honduran specialty, typically served with pickled onions and plantains. 

Beverages 

Mango, papaya, and banana trees grow in abundance in Honduras, and these tropical fruits are among the nation's most commonly exported crops. Green mangoes, pineapples, and passion fruit also thrive in the warm and humid climate. As a result, homemade smoothies, known as frescos, are common on restaurant drink menus. They consist of any combination of these fruits combined with water or milk. 

Coffee is another major export of Honduras. The nation's beans feature fruity, caramel, and chocolate notes that make for a delicious cup. Hondurans have a deep love for coffee and typically enjoy it in the morning alongside baleadas.

If you want to try Honduran food, head to Five Stars Honduras Restaurant. This establishment serves authentic and delicious South American cuisine to hungry patrons throughout Coraopolis, PA. Whether you want to try baleadas for the first time or enjoy freshly brewed coffee, they'll ensure you're satisfied with your meal. Call (412) 329-7978 to place a take-out order for lunch or dinner, or visit the website to view their menu of appetizers and entrees.