Arepas: The Culinary Battleground of Colombia and Venezuela

The debate over the origins and superiority of the arepa stirs national pride and culinary claims as Colombia and Venezuela face off in a rich cultural history, intertwined with politics and migration.

Gustavo Zapata, a skilled chef at the Sancho Paisa restaurant in Medellín, Colombia, meticulously prepares various types of arepas, representing the culinary art and tradition that is passionately defended by both Colombians and Venezuelans. This competitive spirit surrounding the arepa, a versatile cornbread staple, is emblematic of a broader cultural clash between the neighboring nations, which intertwines food with identity.

The arepa, ubiquitous in both countries, plays a significant role in daily life, featured in meals from breakfast to late-night snacks. Gustavo points out that discussions about which country claims the best arepa often ignite a fiery debate. "Everyone defends their territory," he noted, acknowledging how food can symbolize national pride and cultural heritage.

This culinary rivalries draw parallels with other well-known food disputes, such as those seen between Peru and Ecuador over ceviche or among Middle Eastern countries regarding hummus. Although often light-hearted in nature, these debates can reflect deeper nationalistic sentiments — just as Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has positioned the arepa as a key element of his country’s national identity, asserting it solely belongs to Venezuela.

The ongoing economic and political crisis in Venezuela has led to a significant number of Venezuelan refugees migrating abroad, which has contributed to local adaptations of the arepa, celebrating their homeland while also inviting new interpretations. This has further intensified the cultural stakes involved, as both countries lay claim to its origins and culinary heritage.

Ultimately, while the arepa carries rich significance for both nations, the playful dispute over its creation is emblematic of shared histories and diverse culinary traditions that continue to connect and divide these neighboring cultures.