The word “picada” is used to describe a classic dish that is consumed in a number of Latin American and European nations, particularly in Argentina, Colombia, and Spain. Essentially, a picadas is a shared platter or dish made up of different small servings of food, usually meat-based, and meant to be shared. In English, “picada” could be loosely translated as a “mixed platter” or “meat board,” although that translation does not fully capture the cultural and culinary importance of the dish. This article explores everything about picadas—from its historical roots and regional variations to how it’s made, what ingredients go into it, and its modern-day popularity. We’ll also explore connected keywords like carne picadas, recetas con carne picadas, and even discuss curious terms like picada de aranha (spider bite), which although unrelated culinarily, often appear in related searches.
What is Picada? – The Culinary Definition
In culinary terms, picadas is a savory and diverse food presentation that typically includes grilled meats, sausages, potatoes, plantains, arepas, vegetables, sauces, and sometimes seafood. Its ingredients change by nation and even by locality, but its nature is always the same: a communal meal designed to unite. In Argentina, a picada argentina tends to be composed of cold cuts, cheese, olives, and bread—like a charcuterie plate. In Colombia, a picadas colombiana is stronger, with fried meats, potatoes, chorizo, morcilla, yuca, and spicy dipping sauces as main features.
The picada’s popularity comes from its versatility and regional character. It can be an upbeat party snack and a simple family dinner. Essentially, it is an expression of the society’s social aspect—food that fosters interaction, bonding, and camaraderie.
Picada in Argentina – A Cultural Tradition
The picada argentina is probably the most traditional and recognized variety of the dish. Usually served as an appetizer preceding an asado (Argentinian BBQ), the Argentinian picadas is a meat-based appetizer that serves to open up the palate. Salami, ham, mortadella, and longaniza are included in it, as well as numerous cheeses such as provoleta and blue cheese, and even occasionally pickled vegetables or spicy condiments.
While meat takes center stage, Argentinians also add nuts, dried fruits, and olives to round it out. What distinguishes the Argentinian picadas is presentation. Ingredients are creatively placed on wooden boards or country-style trays, making for a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. It’s the perfect sharing dish—something you indulge in with friends and a glass of red wine or fernet.
Colombian Picada – Hearty and Flavorful
The Colombian picada is a whole different animal. More of a substantial main dish than a light appetizer, this version usually contains pieces of beef, pork ribs, chorizo, morcilla (blood sausage), fried plantains, arepas, potatoes, and yuca. Everything is fried or grilled and served together in a heaping tray.
Also referred to as colombia picada mix, it’s frequently accompanied by aji (spicy green sauce), guacamole, or hogao (a Colombian tomato and onion sauce). It’s favored during weekend gatherings, symbolizing Colombia’s appreciation for spicy, rich, and rustic tastes. It’s also commonly served during family events, street food, and celebrations, solidifying its position in Colombian culture.
Carne Picada – The Star Ingredient
One of the most important ingredients in most regional variations of picadas is carne picadas. In English, carne picada literally translates to “minced meat” or “ground meat,” usually beef. This highly versatile ingredient can be prepared in a number of ways—grilled, fried, sautéed, or stewed—and is a common ingredient in many recetas con carne picadas.
From ground beef stir-fry with hot peppers to meatballs, carne picadas is popular for its flavor and capacity for absorbing flavorings. In Argentina and Colombia, it can be flavored with cumin, garlic, pepper, and herbs before it is stuffed into empanadas or placed on top of a huge platter as picadas.
Recetas con Carne Picada – Recipe Inspirations
There are hundreds of recetas con carne picadas that range from traditional to creative. Throughout Latin cuisine, carne picadas is used in empanadas, tacos, picadas, and dishes served over rice. A classic Colombian recipe is Arroz con Carne Picadas, a savory blend of rice, vegetables, and ground meat that’s seasoned. In Argentina, carne picada stends to be the stuffing for pastel de papas (shepherd’s pie).
Another trend on the rise is adding vegan carne picadas—vegetarian ground meat—to contemporary recipes, which is a healthier and environmentally friendly alternative to the original picadas. Whether vegetarian or meat-based, the uses for carne picadas are limitless and extremely gratifying.
Regional Variations of Picada
Other Latin American nations, apart from famous picadas argentina and picada colombiana, have varieties of their own. In Spanish, “picada” will more likely connote a ground ingredient paste or sauce consisting of nuts, bread, garlic, and herbs as a thickening agent for soups. Peruvian picadas can mean choppings of onions, herbs, or spice.
The simplicity of picada is in its versatility and ease of adaptation. Every nation—and sometimes even within every family—gives the dish its own special spin based on local ingredients, customs, and tastes. This international evolution of the recipe is a reminder of how cuisine unites people.
Picada in Modern Cuisine
Today’s chefs are elevating picada to new heights by combining classic recipes with gourmet ingredients. Fusion picadas are not unheard of in high-end restaurants, where artisan sausages substitute for traditional chorizo, or yucca fries are served with truffle aioli. Even vegan and vegetarian picadas are becoming popular, with tofu, seitan, mushrooms, and plant-based chorizo as tasty substitutes.
The North American trend of charcuterie boards is really a cousin to the Latin American picada, demonstrating that the concept of shared, communal platters is universal.
Learning About Other “Picadas” – Insects & Bites
Although mostly related to food, picada also means bites or stings in Spanish. For example:
Picada de aranha is spider bite.
Picada de percevejo is bedbug bite.
These words crop up in search results online and can lead you into mischief if you’re searching for content about food. That being said, they do prove the versatility of the word in the Spanish language. Watch out when searching for “picada” on search engines—it could redirect you to healthcare forums rather than food blogs!
Biography of Picada (Culinary Character)
Although “picada” is not an individual, food lovers fondly refer to it as if it were a person. So let’s personify Picada as a food character, an ambassador of flavor, tradition, and culture.
Attribute Detail
Name Picada
OriginLatin America (specifically Argentina & Colombia)
Main IngredientsMeats, cheese, potatoes, plantains, sauces
PurposeCommunal meal, celebration, appetizer
Popular InArgentina, Colombia, Spain, Peru
English MeaningMixed platter or bite
Known ForRich flavors, variety, cultural tradition
Vegetarian OptionsYes, modern versions exist
The “Parents” of Picada – Cultural Roots
Argentinian Influence
Argentina, known for its asado culture, is one of the “parents” of picada. It birthed the tradition of meat-centric, appetizer-style boards meant to complement BBQs. The European immigrant influence—especially from Spain and Italy—brought the idea of charcuterie and antipasti, which evolved into today’s picada argentina.
Colombian Influence
Colombia, being fond of fried, earthy food, helped to develop the rich, main-course type of picada. The use of arepas, yuca, and sausages indicates Colombia’s indigenous and Spanish influences. Picada colombiana is comfort food and a celebratory dish, deeply ingrained in family customs.
Boyfriend or Girlfriend of Picada – What Pairs Well?
In the world of culinary romance. The perfect match for picada is surely a fine beverage. In Argentina it may be Malbec or Fernet. In Colombia you could have it with a cold cerveza (beer) or aguardiente.
On the plate, picada goes great with:
Fresh bread or arepas
Spicy sauces
Guacamole or chimichurri
Grilled vegetables
These dishes complement the savory and salty taste of the meat and provide texture and balance to the dish.
Picada in Popular Culture
Picada has transcended the status of being a meal—it’s an experience. It’s a staple in Latin American cinema, cooking shows, and even tourism. To order a picada in Medellín or Buenos Aires is a requirement for tourists seeking to experience local life. Picadas is frequently showcased by food bloggers, TikTok personalities, and Instagram chefs who create viral videos of innovative picadas boards, giving it new international attention.
Health Considerations
Though tasty, typical picadas tend to be high in sodium and fat because of sausages and fried meats. To make it health-friendly, some already use grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and low-sodium cheese instead. Lean carne picada or vegan meat is another option to have a different taste without losing flavor.
FAQs
How do picadas argentina and picadas colombiana differ?
Picada argentina is typically an appetizer of cold meats and cheese, whereas picadas colombiana is a more substantial main dish with fried meats, potatoes, and plantains.
Is carne picadas the same as ground beef?
Yes, carne picadas means ground beef or minced meat in English. It may be beef, pork, or even a combination of meats.
Can I make a vegetarian picadas?
Yes! Make use of grilled vegetables, vegan sausages, tofu, mushrooms, and plant-based cheese for a great vegetarian picadas.
What are typical sides to picada?
Typical sides are bread, arepas, guacamole, chimichurri, potatoes, and sauces such as aji or hogao.
Conclusion – Why Everyone Loves Picada
Whether you’re sharing a picada colombiana with family, nibbling on a picadas argentina before dinner, or experimenting with new recetas con carne picadas, the dish offers something for everyone. It’s a meal steeped in culture, tradition, and above all—togetherness. Picadas is more than food; it’s a celebration of life, flavor, and community.