The plate is a Bandeja Paisa, a very traditional large meal found throughout Colombia. While there are many regional variations, the true Bandeja Paisa was started in the paisa regions of Colombia, which traditionally encompasses the state of Antioquia (city of Medellin) and Valle de Cacua (city of Cali).
This particular bandeja was a regional variation. It had red beans (cooked with pork), rice, Chicharrón (fried pork rinds), Colombian chorizo, carne asada (marinated/grilled thin flank steak), fried plaintain (oh, so sweet and good!), an arepa (think of an unleavened biscuit), a nice big slice of avocado, all topped with a fried egg.
I washed it down with jugo de lulo (Lulo Juice). Lulo is a tropical fruit that I have never been able to find here because the restaurants buy them up so quickly. It is also known as a naranjilla in some areas. It has a sweet taste with a slightly tart aftertaste, and is very refreshing.
Bandeja Paisa has been featured on No Reservations with Anthony Bourdain recently. IF you get the opportunity, I would highly encourage you to try one. Max's Ricas in Lawrenceville and La Casona in Doraville are two very good, authentic Colombian restaurants. Also try the sancocho, which is available on the weekends. I will review sancocho next week.
