Houston is a vibrant, multicultural city with a rich tapestry of cuisines from all over the world. Among the many culinary delights found here, South American snacks and empanadas have gained a passionate following. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to these flavorful treats, Houston offers some of the best spots to enjoy authentic South American snacks and, of course, the iconic empanadas.

A Taste of South America in Houston

South America boasts a diverse range of flavors and ingredients, influenced by Indigenous cultures, Spanish and Portuguese colonization, and African heritage. This diversity is reflected in its snacks — from crispy fried delights to sweet treats and savory pastries.

Houston’s thriving Latin American communities have helped bring these snacks into the city’s culinary spotlight. Local markets, food trucks, and restaurants across Houston proudly serve authentic South American snacks, allowing Houstonians to explore rich, bold tastes without leaving town.

Popular South American Snacks You Can Find in Houston

If you’re exploring South American snacks Houston, here are some favorites you might encounter:

• Arepas: Originally from Venezuela and Colombia, arepas are round cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried. They’re often stuffed or topped with cheese, meats, or avocado.
• Chipa: A popular snack from Paraguay and parts of Argentina and Brazil, chipa is a cheesy bread made with manioc (cassava) flour. It’s chewy, cheesy, and utterly addictive.
• Pão de Queijo: Brazilian cheese bread made from tapioca flour — gluten-free and irresistibly cheesy.
• Tequeños: Venezuelan cheese sticks wrapped in dough and fried until golden, perfect as an appetizer or snack.
• Alfajores: These sweet cookies, popular across South America, are usually filled with dulce de leche and coated in powdered sugar or chocolate.

These snacks have become increasingly popular in Houston, served in Latin markets, bakeries, and food festivals, making it easier than ever to experience authentic South American flavors.

The Iconic Empanadas: Houston’s South American Favorite

If there’s one snack that stands out as a true symbol of South American cuisine, it’s the empanada. These delicious stuffed pastries are beloved across the continent, from Argentina’s flaky baked empanadas to Colombia’s crispy fried versions.

In Houston, empanadas have become a staple for lunch, dinner, or an anytime snack. What makes them so popular? Their versatility. Empanadas can be filled with a vast array of ingredients—spiced meats, cheeses, vegetables, or even sweet fillings like guava and cheese.

Empanadas Houston Style: What to Expect

Houston’s South American empanadas reflect the city’s diverse Latin population, with flavors and styles from Venezuela, Argentina, Colombia, and beyond. Here’s what you can expect when hunting for the best empanadas Houston:

• Venezuelan Empanadas: Typically made with corn flour dough and fried until crispy, these empanadas are filled with shredded beef, black beans, cheese, or chicken. They’re often served with a side of guasacaca, a tangy avocado-based sauce.
• Argentine Empanadas: These are usually baked with a flaky, buttery dough and filled with seasoned ground beef, onions, olives, and sometimes hard-boiled eggs or raisins. The Argentine style tends to have a more delicate crust.
• Colombian Empanadas: Colombian versions often use cornmeal dough and are fried. They’re usually filled with beef, pork, or chicken mixed with potatoes and spices.

Houston’s restaurants and food trucks take pride in crafting empanadas with fresh, high-quality ingredients, ensuring every bite bursts with authentic flavor.

Where to Find the Best South American Snacks and Empanadas in Houston

Houston is home to many fantastic eateries that serve South American snacks and empanadas. Here are some top spots worth checking out:

1. Arepa & Co.
   Known for their authentic Venezuelan arepas and empanadas, Arepa & Co. offers a taste of Venezuela’s best street food. Their empanadas are crispy on the outside and filled with savory delights like shredded beef, cheese, or black beans.
2. La Estrella Bakery
   This family-owned bakery specializes in Latin American pastries, including Argentine-style baked empanadas and sweet alfajores. It’s a perfect spot to pick up both savory and sweet South American snacks.
3. Taco Milagro
   While primarily a Mexican restaurant, Taco Milagro offers Colombian-style empanadas as a popular appetizer. Their empanadas are fried to perfection and served with a spicy dipping sauce.
4. Venezuelan Food Trucks and Pop-Ups
   Houston’s food truck scene is thriving, with several trucks specializing in Venezuelan and Colombian street food. These trucks often feature empanadas, arepas, and tequeños that make for a perfect quick bite.
5. Latin Markets
   Many Latin American grocery stores around Houston have a deli or bakery section selling fresh frozen or ready-to-eat empanadas and other South American snacks. Stores like Fiesta Mart and Mi Tienda are good places to start.

Why South American Snacks Are Gaining Popularity in Houston

The rise of South American snacks like empanadas in Houston can be attributed to several factors:

• Growing Latin American Community: Houston’s diverse Latin population continues to grow, bringing their culinary traditions and demand for authentic flavors.
• Healthier Alternatives: Many South American snacks use cornmeal, cassava, or tapioca flours, appealing to those seeking gluten-free or grain-free options.
• Flavorful and Convenient: Empanadas and similar snacks offer bold flavors in a convenient, portable format perfect for busy Houston lifestyles.
• Fusion and Innovation: Houston chefs often put their own twist on traditional recipes, blending local ingredients and culinary influences to create unique, exciting snack options.

How to Enjoy South American Snacks and Empanadas at Home

If you want to bring a taste of South America into your kitchen, making empanadas at home is easier than you think. Here’s a simple guide:

Basic Empanada Dough:

• Use corn flour for Venezuelan or Colombian-style empanadas or wheat flour for Argentine-style.
• Combine flour with a pinch of salt, a bit of oil or butter, and warm water or milk to form a dough.
• Roll out the dough, cut into circles, fill with your choice of meat, cheese, or veggies, then fold and seal.
• Fry or bake until golden and crispy.

You can experiment with fillings—ground beef with onions and spices, shredded chicken with cheese, or even sweet options like guava paste with cream cheese.

Final Thoughts

Houston’s culinary scene is a treasure trove for lovers of South American snacks, especially empanadas. Whether you seek the crispy, fried Venezuelan style or the delicate, baked Argentine version, Houston offers a range of authentic and delicious options that cater to all tastes.

Next time you crave something flavorful and satisfying, skip the usual fast food and try a South American snack or an empanada from Houston’s vibrant Latin eateries. It’s a delicious way to explore culture and flavor right in the heart of Texas.