Cena Caliente
Cena Caliente, meaning 'hot dinner' in Spanish, is a hearty, comforting stew or soup popular in many Latin American countries, particularly in the Caribbean and Central America. It typically features a flavorful broth with a combination of starchy vegetables like potatoes or yuca, protein such as beef, pork, or chicken, and aromatic vegetables like onions, peppers, and tomatoes. The dish is often seasoned with local herbs and spices like cilantro, cumin, and oregano.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally well-balanced, offering a good mix of complex carbohydrates from the vegetables, protein from the meat, and healthy fats from the broth. It provides essential nutrients like potassium, vitamin C, and B vitamins, with a typical serving ranging from 300 to 500 calories depending on the specific recipe and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Potassium | 580 mg |
| Vitamin C | 25 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Zinc | 3 mg |
Per 1 bowl (approx. 350 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Cena Caliente is a quintessential example of 'comida criolla' (creole cooking), representing the fusion of indigenous, European, and African culinary traditions in Latin America. Its adaptability is key, as families often have their own cherished versions, using whatever local ingredients are available, making it a dish of both cultural identity and practical nourishment.
