A Glossary of Panamanian/Spanish Cooking Terms

As a preface to our culinary lexicon I think it’s important to briefly examine the evolutionary linguistic of Panamas Caribbean/Central American polyglot Spanish.  A variety of indigenous native tongues meshed with explorers and settles from various areas of Iberia who brought at least four different dialects with them. Often it’s difficult for us to realize that during the last half of the second millennia people were usually born, raised and died in the same village ….. never traveling farther then an outlying field, neighboring village or forest. When the islands of the Caribbean rim were annexed by the Spanish, English, French and Dutch they imported African laborers,  to replaced the depopulated colonies, who spoke over 50 different dialects and brought not only their languages but also many new culinary constructs and cultivars.  Many of the items, now considered main stays of the Central American-Caribbean diet,  traveled along with the Old World Explorers and their slaves to terra firma and Panama.  Without this inoculation  the New World would not have rice, sugar, chickens, beef, pork, coffee, gandules, citrus, cooking oils, cucumbers, bananas, yams, olives, salt cod, salted beef, the horse, wheel, guitar, malaria and many others items we take for granted.  Unfortunately the millions of conscripted African laborers were usually worked to death under horrific conditions that severely limited reproduction. Fresh replacements had to be imported in a continuing cycle that prevented the formal adaption of a culinary lexicon that named common cultivars be they neophytes or archaeophytes.  In the many microclimates of Central America  plants cross pollinate with astounding variety and frequency adding hundreds of regional varieties/entries to the culinary vocabulary. So the Spanish picked up, from the original peoples, or introduced, words and then these words were introduced to the next visit location that had an already existing lexicon and the terms were then shaped to fit. Many different items are represented by a lemma or generic lexemic head words that require a qualifying adjective for clarification. This means that by adding a small part of speech to one term or name it becomes another entirely different entity.

Panama’s native foodways owe their preservation to the cultural and achaeophyte isolation and the continued economic conditions of a substance farming economy.  The interior has none of the fast food outlets that are slowly making in roads all over the world because if you only make  $9 a day it’s unlikely that you’re going to spend $3 at Mickey D’s.  That’s not to say there’s no street food because there is, but that offered in most outlets is aimed at the lower half of the economy and relies on starchy roots, and vegetables.   The WBO estimates that 50% of the total calories of the poorest half of Panamas population come from rice, oil and sugar and that certainly explains the use of anything you might grow, or dig up in the wild.  When  the African Pan Spermia  subsided, due to  emancipation, a great many East Indians came to the area bringing their respective languages, dialects and imported cultivars.  The Chinese also came in substantial numbers until Panama limited their immigration much like the US did.  Furthermore Panamanian Spanish is not the same dialect spoken in Costa Rica, Columbia or Mexico and the dialect often changes from area to area within the small republic so this “Spanish” food glossary is only an attempt to codify some of the many terms for the English speaking foodie or traveler.  You can also visit our  recipe site listed on the blogroll to see how many of these ingredients are used in everyday Panamanian cuisine.

Abadejo …. Haddock, Not Local

Abulon/Loco/Orejas De Mar ….Abalone, Usually Only From Chile

Aceite                                                          Oil, Not Indigenous

Aceituna                                                     Olive, Not Indigenous

Acelyas/Acelga                                       Swiss Chard, Not Indigenous

Acerola/Huesito/Cereso                     Barbados Or Puerto Rican Cherry, Indigenous

Achicoria                                                   Chicory, Not Indigenous

Achiote/Bixa                                            Ground Annatto Seeds, From The Lipstick Tree

Achira                                                          Canna Lily,  Rhizome Like Arrowroot

Achuras                                                       Leftovers

Adobo Store Bought                              Spice Mix Or Rub; Goya Brand

Adobo                                                         Chilies, Garlic, Thyme Vinegar Paste/Coating

Agave/Maguery                                     Cactus Like Lily, Indigenous

Agridulce                                                   Sweet And Sour

Agringados                                                Latin’s Who’ve Gone Gringo

Agrio/Acido                                              Sour-Bitter-Acidic

Agua Fresca                                               Fruit Or Herb Beverage Usually Contains Fruit

Agua                                                              Water

Aguacate                                                     Avocado, The Local Ones Are Huge, Indigenous

Aguja                                                            Beef Chuck Roll Roast, Or Needle Steak

Aguayon/Palomilla                                Top Sirloin, Tip

Ahumar                                                       To Smoke Or Smoked

Ahuyama/Anco/Joke                          Various Squashes, Indigenous

Airon                                                            Egret    

Ajedrea                                                        Savory, Not Indigenous

Aji Chombo                                                Scotch Bonnet, Very Hot, Indigenous

Aji Sauce                                                      Like Salsa

Aji Pimiento                                               Sweet Chili Peppers Lots Of Kinds, Indigenous

Ajo                                                                 Garlic, Some Indigenous Varieties

Ajonjoli                                                        Sesame Seed, Not Indigenous

Akee, Seso Vegetal, Fruta  Huevo    Ackee, Not Indigenous

Al Carbón                                                    Cooked Over Coals, BBQ

Al Gusto                                                        To Taste

Alambre/Pincho                                       Wires Of Meat Or Veg, Brochettes, Skewers

Alemendo/Sarrapia                                 Tonka Beans, Indigenous

Alas                                                                 Wings

Albahaca                                                       Basil, There’s A Wild Variety Too, Not Indigenous

Albardilla                                                      To Batter

Albaricoques                                               Apricots, Not Indigenous

Albondiga                                                     Meatball

Alcachofa                                                      Artichoke, Not Indigenous

Alcaparra                                                     Caper, Not Indigenous

Alcaparrado                                               Table Condiment Of Capers, Pimientos & Olives

Alcapurria                                                  Yautia, Banana, Picadillo (Meat-Fish-Fowl) Fritter

Alcaravea                                                    Caraway, Not Indigenous

Alemandra                                                  Almonds, Not Indigenous

Algarrabo                                                    Carob, St. Johns Bread, Not Indigenous

Almeja                                                           Clam, Fresh And Sea, Many Types, Names

Almibar                                                         Syrup

Almuerzo/ Almorzar                               Midmorning Meal, Lunch

Alverjas                                                         Peas, Not Indigenous

Amaranth/Kiwicha/Hualti                    Callaloo Greens, Chinese Spinach, Seeds, Indigenous

Ambarella/Ciruela                                    Mombin, Hog Plum, Golden Apple, Not Indigenous

Anadir                                                           Add

Anchoa/Bocon/Anchovetas               Anchovy, About 20 Species, Fish Meal

Ardilla                                                           Squirrel, Many Species

Anejo                                                             Aged

Angel                                                             Angelfish, Many Multihued Species

Anguila                                                         Eel, About 20 Local Varieties

Anis                                                               Anise Seed, Not Indigenous

Annatto Oil                                                 Oil Infused With Annatto Seeds Or Achiote

Annatto Seeds                                           Base For Achiote, Body Paint, Indigneous

Anillos                                                          Rings As In Calamari

Anisillo/Chilca/Chinchilla                  Type Of Marigold Used For Tea, Herb

Annona                                                        Bullock Heart, Sweetsop, Indigneous

Anon                                                             Sugar Apple, Sparse, Indigenous

Anona, Cherimola                                   Custard Apple, Sweetsop, Indigenous

Anona/Soncoya/Ilama                        Eatable Fruit, 150 Varieties, Confusing, Indigenous

Antojito                                                       Appetizer

Apagar                                                         Turn Off

Apio/Nabo/Apirrabano                       Celery Or Celery/Carrot Like Root, Indigenous

Aplanar                                                        Roll Out/Flatten

Aquaymanto,Uchuva                            Cape Gooseberry, Incaberry, Indigenous

Aquja/Pez Vela                                         Sailfish

Araca Boi, Araza                                       Big Guava Relative, Indigenous

Aranas                                                           Hash Brown Like Fritters, Stuffed

Arandano                                                     Cranberry, Not Indigenous

Arenque Ahumado                                   Smoked Herring/Sardine

Arenque                                                        Sardine/Herring About 25 Local Species

Arepa                                                              Corn Bread Polenta Like Cakes

Armadillo                                                      Armadillo

Arracacha                                                      Peruvian Carrot, Indigenous

Arracheras                                                    Skirt, Flank Steak Or Fajita

Arrayan, Guyabita Del Peru                   One Of Over A 100 Guavas, Not Indigenous

Arroz Con Dulce                                          Sweet Rice, Rice Pudding

Arroz Con Grandules                                 Rice, Pigeon Peas-Hoppin John-Cassemento

Arroz Con Pollo                                            The Latin Archetypical Chicken And Achiote Rice

Arroz Y Habichuelas                                   Rice And Beans, Lots Of Variations

Arroz                                                                  Rice         

Asado/Asar                                                     Roast Or To Carve

Asado De Cerdo                                              Pork Leg Or Butt, Boned Or Not, For Roasting

Asado De Costilla                                           Rib Roasts, Prime Rib

Asado De Pulpo Blanca                                Top Round

Asado De Pulpo Negro                                 Bottom Round

Asopas                                                                Spanish Thick Rice Soup/Stew

Asparagus                                                         Asparagus, Not Indigenous

Atar                                                                     Tie, As With String

Atemoya                                                            Annona And Squamosa Hybrid, Recent

Atun                                                                     Tuna, 16 Species

Ausubo                                                               Apple Like Non Commercial Fruit, Little Known

Avellana                                                             Hazelnut/Filbert, Not Indigenous

Avena                                                                  Oats, Not Indigenous

Ayocote                                                              Scarlet Runner Bean, Indigenous

Azafran De La India                                        Turmeric, Not Indigenous

Azafran                                                                Saffron, Not Indigenous

Azucar                                                                  Sugar, Not Indigenous

Babilla, Bistec                                                    Knuckle

Bacalaitos                                                            Salt Cod Fritters/Cakes

Bacalao Salado                                                  Dried, Salted Cod A World Staple For Centuries

Bacalao                                                                 Cod/Not Local

Bagre                                                                     Catfish

Balsamino/Carela/Cudeanor                      Bitter Melon, Not Indigenous

Banar                                                                     Cover With Sauce

Barracuda/Picuda                                            Barracuda

Barras                                                                    Loaf

Batidor/Mezclador                                          Mixer

Batidos                                                                  Fruit Smoothy With Milk Like A Shake

Batir                                                                       To Whip Like Cream Or Eggs

Belona                                                                   Gar

Berenjena                                                             Eggplant, Not Indigenous

Berro                                                                      Watercress, Nasturtium, Not Indigenous

Besugo                                                                   Sea Bream or Porgy

Bijao/Plantinillo                                                Herbal Leaf, Wrapper Tamales etc., Indigenous

Biriba/Rollinia                                                   Another Spiky Anona, Little Known, Indigenous

Bistec Al Minuto                                               Minute Steak

Bistec De Lomo                                                 New York Steak

Bistec Picado/Suavizado                              Swiss Steak

Bistec De Pierna                                                Round Leg Steak

Bistec                                                                     Steak

Blanquear                                                            To Blanch

Bobo                                                                       Mullet

Bocadillo                                                              Guava Paste Snack Or Tiny Plantain

Bollo                                                                       Corn Tamale Like, Cigar Shaped, Husk or Leaf Wrapped

Bollo, Maize Nuevo                                           Fresh Corn, Like The Above, Sweet or Savory

Bollo, Penando                                                    Stuffed ,Fresh Corn, Wrapped and Boiled

Bonito                                                                      Bonito Tuna, Mackrel

Borde                                                                       Edge

Borojo                                                                     Large Fruit, Indigenous

Borrego/Cordero                                               Lamb

Botana                                                                     Snack, To Dip

Brevas                                                                     Figs, Not Indigenous

Brocoli/Broculi                                                   Broccoli, Not Indigenous

Brotes De Soya                                                     Bean Sprouts, Not Indigenous

Bully Beef                                                               Corned Beef, From French Bouilli For Boiled Beef

Buitre                                                                      Vulture

Bunchosia                                                              Peanut Butter Fruit

Bunuelo                                                                  Raised Beignet, Sweet Or Not

Caballa                                                                    Mackerel, 5 Varieties

Caballito De Mar                                                 Sea Horse

Cabeluda, Jaboticaba Amarillo                   Fruit For Dessert, Juices, Ices

Cabrito                                                                  Young Goat

Cacahuete/Mani                                                Peanuts, Many Types Indigenous

Cacao                                                                      Coco

Cacao/Cacahuatl                                                Tree That Produces Cocoa Beans/Nibs, Indigenous                  

Cacaui                                                                     False Cacao Fruit, Seeds Roasted For Inferior Cacao

Cachalote                                                              Whales, Several Species

Café, Leche, Tinta, Negro                               Coffee, Milk, Espresso, Black, Not Indigneous

Caimán/Cocodrilo                                            Crocodile

Caimaron/Puruma/Uvilla/Uva                  Amazon Tree Grape, Fruit, Little Known, Indigneous

Caimito/Abiu/Estrella                                    Star Apple, White And Purple, Indigenous

Calabacita/Calabacin                                       Squash, Zuchinni, Indigneous, Summer, Crookneck Etc.

Calabash                                                                 Bottle Gourd, Not Indigenous

Calabaza/Ayote/Calabazo                              West Indian Pumpkin, Indigneous

Calamar                                                                   Squid, Calamari, Many Types And Sizes

Calamondin/Panama Orange                         Small Orange Like Fruit

Calderon                                                                  Whales, Medium Sizes, Several Varieties

Caldo De Pato, Pollo                                            Duck, Chicken Stew Or Soup

Caldo                                                                          Broth, Soup Or Stock

Calentar                                                                    Heat/Warm

Callao/Callaloo Leaves                                      Taro/Amaranth/Cassava Greens, Indigenous, Many

Callaloo                                                                    A Mixed Meat Stew/Soup, Much Confusion

Camaron                                                                  Shrimp, Sea And Fresh Water, Farmed 7+ Varieties

Camaron Carabali/Tigre                                   Tiger Or Zebra Shrimp

Camarónes Seco                                                   Dried Shrimp For Powder

Cambombia/Cambute                                        Conch, Conk, Sea Snail

Camote                                                                      Sweet Potato, Edible Leaves, Indigenous

Cana De Azucar                                                      Sugar Cane, Not Indigneous

Canastitas                                                                 A Savory Or Sweet Little Baskets

Canela                                                                       Mexican Cinnamon, Mild, Not Indigneous

Cangrejo                                                                   Crab, Land And Sea, Often Smoked

Capa                                                                           Layer

Capachomanso/Chisgua                                   Achira, Canna Lilly, Arrowroot, Not Indigenous

Capear                                                                      Batter And Fry

Capulin/Cereza/Cerezo                                    Wild Cherry, Indigenous

Caqui                                                                        Persimmon, Not Indigenous

Caraco                                                                     Snail

Caradamomo                                                       Cardamon, Not Indigenous

Carajota, Agujon, Agoja                                  Needlefish, Several Species

Carambola                                                             Star Fruit, Not Indigenous

Carambolero/Arbol De Pepino                    Balimbing, Five Finger

Carao                                                                       Stinking Toe, Indigenous

Cardamom                                                            Cardamom, Not Indigenous

Cardinal                                                                 Grosbeak

Carimanola                                                           Cigar Shaped Yuca, Filled With Picciadio, Hard Eggs

Carmelo                                                                 Carmel For Flans, The Candy

Carne De Guisar                                                  Stew Meat    

Carne Picada                                                        Minced Meat

Carne Vieja Or Ropa Vieja                              Old Beef Or Old Clothes, Stew-Dried Meat

Carne                                                                       Meat

Carne De Res Molinda/Picada                      Ground Or Minced Beef

Carpa                                                                       Carp

Carta                                                                        Menu

Casabe                                                                     Cassava Bread

Casareep/Pepper Pot Seasoning                  Reduced Cassava Juice, Cinnamon, Cloves And Sugar

Cascara/Peladura                                               Rind/Shell/Zest

Cassava/Yuca/Manioc/Mandioca              A Food Staple, When Processed It’s Tapioca, Indigenous

Cassia                                                                       Bark Like Cinnamon But Stronger, Not Indigenous

Castana                                                                    Bread Fruit, Not Indigenous

Castano De Agua/Guayana                             Money Tree, Malabar Chestnut, Seeds Eaten, Indigenous

Cazo                                                                          Pan/Sauce Pan

Cazon                                                                        Dog Fish, Several Species Of Small Sharks

Cazuela                                             Dutch Oven

Cebolla                                              Onion, Some Indigenous

Cebollana                                          Chives, Some Indigenous

Cebollitas                                          Green Onions/Scallions Some Indigenous

Cecina/Tasajo                                   Cured Dried Beef Or Pork, Like Chipped Beef, Soak First

Cena                                                  Dinner/Supper

Cenir                                                 Sift As In Flour

Centollo                                            Spider Crab, Legs Eaten

Centra De Cadera                             Flank Steak

Centro De Esdailla                                     Blade Steak Or Roast

Cepillar                                             Brush As In Egg Wash

Cerdo De Esadilla                                       Blade/Butt Steak

Cerdo Picado                                    Minced/Ground Pork

Cerdo                                                          Pork

Cereza De Cayena/Quadrada            Surinam Cherry, Indigenous

Cereza De Tierra, Alquejenje            Golden Berry, Cape Gooseberry, Indigenous

Cereza/Capulin                                 Cherry, Several Indigenous Varieties

Ceriman, Monstera                           Cheese Plant, Mexican Breadfruit, Toxic Unripend

Cero                                                  Mackerel

Casumbi/Gato Jujuna                       Kinkajou

Ceviche                                             Citrus Marinated Fish, Meat

Chabacano                                        Apricot, Not Indigenous, Commonly Used As A Euphemism

Chamberete/Jarrete                           Shanks Hind Beef

Chamberete De Mano                           Front Shanks Beef

Charola                                             Baking Dish

Chaya/Espinaca Maya                      Tree Spinach, Maya Spinach. Indigenous

Chayote/Chocho/Guisquil                 Squash Like Gourd For Stews, Salads, Indigenous

Chicheme                                          Cornmeal, Water or Milk, Sugar and Cinnamon Drink

Chirimoya/Cawesh                           Poshte, Well Known Exported Annona

Cojinua                                             Blue Runner, Perch Like, Jack

Cojoba/Parica/Yopo/Napo                Ground Seeds, A Psychedelic Hallucinogen

Cola                                                  Tail As In Lobster Or Shrimp

Corazon/Rinon/Negrito                     Cherimoya/Annona, Many Cultivars, Indigenous

Chabacano                                        Apricot, Not Indigenous

Chicha                                               Infused Beverage Fruit Or Vegetable, Often Fermented

Chicharron                                        Pork Crackling Or Bits Of Deep Fried Pork/Chicken

Chila/Melocotonero                          Cassabanana, Long Colored Melon, Indigenous

Chimcuhrri                                        Herbs, Garlic, Citrus Sauce For Meat        

Chino Chino                                               A Chinese Chinese Market

Chino                                                         Colloquialism For Market

Chipitos                                            Fried Plantain Chips

Chiricano                                          Fresh Corn, Coconut, Cane Juice, Wrapped, Roasted

Chirimoya/Chirimuya                       Custard Apple, Annona Family, Indigenous

Chirivia/Pastinaca                                      Parsnip/ Not Indigenous

Ciruela                                              Mombin, Indigenous

Chiva/Chivo                                               Goat

Chorizo                                             Cured Spanish Paprika Sausage, Not Raw Mexican

Chorrito                                            A Pinch Or Dash

Chuelata De Lomo De Res                T Bone Or Del Monico Steak

Chueleta De Aguaron                        Top Sirloin Steak

Chueleta De Dos Lomos                             Porterhouse Steak

Chueleta                                            Chop Or Steaks, Bone In

Chuleton                                           Large Beef Chop, Huge Sometimes

Chupa Chupa/Matisia                       A Sapote (Soft Eatable Fruit) One Of Many, Indigenous

Cinta                                                 The Chain From The Filet Strip

Ciruela Pasa                                               Prune, Euphemism, Some Indigenous

Ciruela                                              Plum, Many Varieties, Some Indigenous

Clara De Huevo                                Egg White

Clavo                                                          Cloves, Nail, Dried Unopened Blossom, Not Indigenous

Coati                                                 Raccoon

Cocido Al Vapor                              Steamed

Cocinar A Fuego Lento                     Simmer

Cocinar/Cocer                                   To Cook/Bake

Cocinero                                            Cook

Coco, Pipa                                        Coconut, Possibly Indigenous

Cocona/Cybiyu/Coconilla                 Orange Like, Little Known Commercially

Codillo                                              Smoked Pork Shank, Ham Hock

Codorniz                                           Quail

Col Picada En Salmuera                             Sauerkraut

Col Rizada/Forrajera                         Kale

Col/Repollo                                                Cabbage, Not Indigenous

Colar                                                 Strain

Coles De Bruselas                                      Brussel Sprouts, Not Indigenous

Coliflor                                             Cauliflower, Not Indigenous

Combinar                                          Combine

Comida Basura                                 Junk Food

Comino                                             Cumin, Not Indigenous

Comiso                                             Bagged Lunch

Completamente                                 Throughly Or Completely Mixed

Conch/ Conk                                     Snail Like Abalone, A Caribbean Favorite

Conchas                                            Shell Or Sliced Rolled Flank Steak Cut

Conchuela                                         Scallops

Condimento                                                Condiment

Conejo                                              Rabbit In Spanish

Conejo/Paca                                                Panamian Rodent

Conejo/Sapo                                     Pufferfish

Congelado                                         Frozen

Congelador                                       Frezze

Copos De Maiz Tostados                           Corn Flakes

Corbina                                             Corvina, An Over Used Name For Many Species                  

Cordero                                             Lamb

Cortado En Cuatro                                     Cut Into Quarters

Cortar En Cuadritos                         Diced, Cubed

Cortar En Lonchas                                     To Slice

Cortar                                                         To Cut Or Trim

Coriando                                           Coriander Seed Or Ground

Costillas/Chuleta/ De Lomo              Rib Eye Roasts, Steaks And Backribs

Costillas                                            Ribs

Coucou                                             Okra And Cornmeal Gruel

Crema Agria                                     Sour Cream                            

Crema De Cacahuate                        Peanut Butter

Crema Para Batir                              Whipping Cream

Crema Pastelero                                Pastry Cream

Crema                                               Cream

Crema Tartaro                                  Cream Of Tartar

Crepe                                                          Pancake Or Crepe

Criolla                                               Creole, Born, Made Or From Here

Crudo                                                         Raw

Crujiente                                           Crispy

Cubir                                                 Cover

Cuajilote/Guajilote                                      Candle Tree

Cuchara De Medir                                      Measuring Spoon

Cuchara De Servir                                      Service Spoon

Cuchara                                            Spoon

Cucharada                                         Tablespoon

Cucharadita                                                Teaspoon

Cucharones                                       Ladles

Cuchillo                                            Knive

Cuenco                                              Bowl

Cueta                                                Eye Of Round

Culantro                                            Tougher, Spiky And Traditional 70+ Names Worldwide

Culita De Res/Cerdo                         Oxtail Or Pork “Cerdo” Tail

Curcuma                                           Turmeric, Indian Saffron, Colorant For Curries

Dar La Vuelta                                   To Turn Over

Dasayuno                                          Breakfast

Dasheen                                            Leaves Of The Otoe, Taro Related Greens, Indigenous

De Gustacion                                    Tasting/Sampling

Degrasar                                           Degrease

Dejar                                                 Marinate

Delfin                                                          Dolphin, Many Varieties

Dende/Aceite De Palma                     American Palm Oil, Not Indigenous

Derretido                                           Melted As In Cheese Or Chocolate

Derretir                                             To Melt

Desayuno                                          Breakfast

Deshuesar                                         Debone

Desvenar                                           Devein, Like Shrimp

Dientes                                              Clove Of Garlic (Teeth)

Diezmillo                                           Beef Chuck

Dividir En Dos                                  Cut In Half, Divide

Doblar                                               Fold In Half

Domplin                                            Dumpling From Any Starchy Cultivar

Dorado                                              Dolphin Fish Aka Mahi Mahi

Dorar                                                          To Brown

Dulce                                                 Sweet, Dessert Or Snack

Durazno                                            Peach, Not Indigenous

Ejotes                                                         Green Beans, Many Varieties, Indigenous

Elote                                                 Fresh Corn, Indigenous

Embutido                                          Cold Cuts Or Sausage Or Making Them

Embutidos                                        Cold Cuts, Deli Meats

Empanada Picadillo                          Filled Turnover, Sweet Or Not Pastry/Vegetable

Emparedado                                               Sandwich

En Lata                                             Canned

En Trozos                                         In Slices Or Pieces

Encender                                           Light, Lightly

Encurito                                            Pickled Vegetable Relish For Everything, Not Indigneous

Endibia                                             Endive

Endulzar                                           Sweeten

Eneldo                                               Dill Weed, Not Indigenous

Enfriar                                              Chill

Engrasdo                                           As In Grease A Pie Pan

Enharinar                                          To Flour

Ensalada                                           Salad

Ensaladera                                        Salad Bowl

Entero                                               Whole

Entrada                                             Entree

Erizo Comun                                     Porcupinefish

Escabeche   (Chilled)                         Cooked Fish-Meat Macerated In Vinegar & Onions

Escaldar                                            Scald

Escalfado                                          Poached As Eggs Or Salmon

Escalopes                                          Scallops Of Pounded Meat, Cutlets

Escurridos                                         Drained

Escurrir                                             Drain

Espada, Pez                                                Swordfish

Espaldilla                                          Flank Steak

Espesar                                             Thicken

Espinacas                                          Spinach, Not Indigenous

Esponja Vegetal                                Loofah/Sponge Gourd, Eatable Fresh, Indigenous

Esponja                                             Sponge

Espuma                                             Foam: Like On The Top Of Boiling Beans

Espumadera                                               Slotted Kitchen Spoon

Estofado                                           Stew Or Casserole

Estragon                                           Tarragon, Not Indigneous

Estufa                                                         Stove

Exprimir                                           To Squeeze Like Juice

Faisan                                               Pheasant

Falda De Res                                     Flank Steak, Sometimes Flank Steak Tips

Fedios                                               Angel Hair Pasta

Filete De Lomo                                 Filet Of Beef

Filete De Pechuga                              Boneless Chicken Breast

Filet De Muslo                                  Boneless Chicken Thigh Meat

Flan                                                   Custard

Flor De Calabaza                              Squash Blossoms, Flowers

Fogon                                                         Triangle Shaped Hearth, Rural Technology

Fonda                                                         Small Food Outlet

Fondo                                                         Soup, Consommé

Formas                                              Shapes, Molds

Foutou                                              Plantains And Manioc Mashed

Frambuesa/Mora De Castilla            Rasperries, Not Indigenous

Freir                                                  To Fry

Fresas                                                         Strawberry, Wild Indigenous Varieties

Frijol                                                 Beans, Other Euphemisms Used

Frijol Pelon, De Vaca, Poroto           Black Eyed Peas, Cow Pea

Frito                                                  Fried

Fritura                                               Fritter, Croquette Of Various Types Fried

Fruta De Pan                                              Breadfruit, Not Indigenous

Fruta                                                 Fruit

Fuego Fuerte                                     High Heat, Strong Flame

Fufu, Foufou, Monfango                            Polenta Of Yam, Cassava, Or Plantain

Fundir                                               To Melt

Galanga                                             Galangal, Blue Ginger

Galleta                                              Cracker Or Cookie

Gallina                                              Old Laying Hen For Boiling

Gallinitas                                          Game Hens

Gallo                                                 Rooster, Often A Capon                                                         

Gallo Pinto                                        Beans And Rice, Spotted Rooster, Ubiquitous

Gandinza                                           Pork Liver

Gandules/Guandu                             No Eyed, Pigeon, Congo, Cow Peas, Not Indigenous

Ganzo/Ganso                                    Goose

Garbanzo                                          Chic Pea, Not Indigenous

Gato                                                  Cat, Used With Many Other Adjectives, Many Usages

Gato Solo                                          Coati

Gelatina                                            Jelly, Gelatin, Jello

Girasol                                              Sun Flower, Indigenous

Girasole/Gerasole                              Jerusalem Artichoke, Sunchoke, Not Indigenous

Gota De Miel                                    Honeydew Melon, Not Indigenous

Granada, Manzana Chino                           Pomegranate, Several Types, Not Indigneous

Granadillas/Maracuya                       Passion Fruit, 50 Indigenous Species

Grasa                                                          Grease Or Fat

Grosella, Guinda                               Bitter Gooseberry, Various Colors, Not Indigenous

Guabilla/Guama De Rió/Inga            Small Hand Eaten Fruit, Indigenous

Guacamayo                                       Mackaw

Guacho                                             Soup Or Stew Like, Many Representations

Guaho                                               Wahoo

Guajanas                                           Sugar Cane Flowers/ Peeled Raw, Battered, Cooked

Guaje                                                Luciana, Wild Tamarind, An Old Native Food

Gualiriyu/Pargo Pluma                     Wrasse/Hog Fish

Guanabana/Graviola                         Soursop, Another Annona, Indigenous

Guasca/Chumica                               Herb For Soups, Indigenous

Guatacare                                          Tobaccofish

Guayaba/Guyava                              Guava, 100 Plus Species, Indigneous

Guenepa/Genip/Seso Vegetal            Ackee, Not Indigenous

Guineos                                             Bananas, Not Indigenous, Well Used Appellation

Guingambo                                       Okra, Not Indigenous

Guisado                                            Stewed, The Cooking Method For Panamanians

Guisante, Arveja, Frijolitos               Pea As In Petite Pois

Haba de Burro/Judia Sable               Jack Bean, Horse Bean, Indigenous

Habas/Caracuta/Kedeba                    Lima, Fava And Many Others, Some Indigenous

Habas Largas/Bora/Bodi                            Long Beans, Not Indigenous, Cow Pea Related

Habichuela, Negro, Blanca, Rosita   Bean, Black, White, Pink Etc-Etc-Etc

Habichuelas Frescas                          Green String Beans, Indigenous

Halibut                                              Halibut, None Here Unless Imported

Harina                                               Flour

Helado                                              Ice Cream

Hervir                                               Boil

Hielo                                                 Ice

Hierbabuene/Yerbabuena                            Mint, Many Varities Some Indigenous

Higado                                               Beef Liver

Higo Chumbo                                   Cactus Prickly Pear, Indigenous

Higo                                                  Fig, Not Indigneous

Hinojo, Eneldo                                  Fennel, Not Indigenous

Hoja; Pez                                           Peacock Flounder

Hojaldre                                            Fry Bread, Puff Paste Dough

Hojas                                                   Leafs For Wrapping Or Herb Leaf, Pastry

Hojas de Guineo                               Banana Leaves, Wrappers, Undeliners

Hojas De Mostaza                                      Mustard Greens, Not Indigenous

Hojuela                                             Pancakes

Hormiguero Gigante, Oso Caballo    Ant Eater, Four Indigenous Species

Hongo, Seta, Champinon                           Mushroom, Many Varieties Some Indigenous

Hornear                                             To Bake

Horno De Microonda                        Microwave

Horno                                                         Oven

Huesos                                              Bones

Huesos Rojo                                               Neck Bones, Beef

Huevo Duro/Cocidos                            Boiled/Hard Eggs

Huevo Frito                                                Fried Egg

Huevo Revueltos                               Scrambled Eggs

Huevo Tibio                                               Soft Boiled Egg

Huevo                                               Egg And Caviar

Icaco/Hicaco                                      Cocoplum, Not Indigenous

Icaza/Icaco, Zicate                                       Coastal Coco Plum, Out Of Hand, Indigenous

Iguana                                               Iguana, Several Species

Imbu/Unbu/Ciruela/Jocote                Hog Plum, Yellow Mombin, Indigenous

Inga Cupo/Cipo                                Ice Cream Bean, Pulp Eaten, Not Seeds, Up To 2’

Jabon                                                          Soapfish

Jaca, Rima, Many Euphemisms                 Jackfruit, Worlds Largest Tree Fruit, Not Indigenous

Jacote                                                         Mombin, Several Colors, Indigenous

Jacote de Maranon                                     Cashew “Fruit”, Beverage

Jaiba                                                 Crab

Jaltomalo                                          Creeping False Holly

Jamican Pepper                                 Allspice, Indigenous

Jamon                                               Ham

Jarra                                                  Jar Or Jug

Jarrete                                               Leg Of Beef

Jengibre                                             Ginger, Not Indigenous

Jerk                                                   Spice Blend, Pulled Meat

Jicama/Ajipo                                     Yam Bean, A Sweet Root Vegetable, Indigenous

Jobito, Ciruela Troqueadora             Jamaica Plum, Red Mombin, Indigenous

Jugo                                                  Juice

Jugoso                                               Juicy

Jurel/Cojinoa/Jurelete                        Jack And Trevally Or Sabalo, Several Species

Lado                                                  Side

Langosta                                           Lobster, Many Species

Langostino                                        Red Prawns, Crayfish

Lapón Escorpión                              Spotted Scorpionfish

Lata                                                   Can Or Tin

Lavar                                                Wash

Leche Condensada                                      Condensed Milk

Leche                                                 Milk

Lechia/Lychee                                   Litchi Nut, Not Indigenous

Lechon                                                 Whole Pig Or A Food Stand That Sells All The Parts

Lechuga                                             Lettuce, Not Indigneous

Legumbre                                          Vegtable

Lengua                                              Tongue

Lenguado/Lenguadito                        Flounder Or Sole, Several Species Of Each

Lenteja                                              Lentil, Not Indigenous But Very Popular

Leren, Cocurito/Agua Bendita          Guinea or Arrowroot Root, Indigenous

Leon Montes                                     Puma, Mountain Lion

Levandura En Polvo                         Baking Powder/ Sometimes Yeast

Libre                                                 Pound

Licores                                              Liquors

Licuado                                             Blended Fruit And Water Beverage

Lima                                                  Lime, Not Indigenous

Limón Dulce                                     Sweet Lemon, Not Indigenous

Limón Verde, Criollo                        Key Or West Indian Lime, Not Indigenous

Limon                                               Lemon, Not Indigenous

Limoncillo, Mamee Ciruela               Canistel, Egg Fruit, Many Euphemisms, Indigenous

Lisa                                                   Mullet, Salt And Fresh Water

Liso                                                   Smooth Muscle, Lean Pork

Liso De Cerdo                                   Pork Sirloin Strip Or Loin

Lobina, Robalo                                 Bass Or Snook

Lomo                                                Back The Title For Cuts From The Back

Lomo                                                Sir Loin, Top, T-Bone, Filet

Lomo Chato                                               Top Sirloin

Lomo De Res                                     Strip, T-Bone, Porterhouse Or Filet

Longaniza                                         Spanish Sausage

Loro                                                  Parrotfish, Flashy Many Species

Lucuma/Lucmo                                 Fruit, Desserts, Ice Cream, Indigenous

Lufa/Esponja Vegetal                        Luffa, Two Types, One Eatable, Not Indigenous

Macadamia                                       Macadamia, Commercially Grown, Not Indigenous

Macarrones Gratinados                    Baked Macaroni And Cheese

Macarrones                                       Macaroni

Machacar                                          To Crush Or Grind

Macho De Monte                              Tapir

Macis                                                          Mace, Covering Of The Allspice Berry, Indigenous

Madrono/Charichuela                       Lemon Like Fruit, Indigenous

Maduro                                             Ripe

Magdalena                                        Cup Cake

Magro                                               Lean As Beef

Mahonesa/Mayonesa                        Mayonnaise

Maicena                                            Corn Starch

Majito                                               Rum, Mint, Sugar And Lime Drink Or Sauce

Malabar                                            Saba Nut, Provision Tree, Nut, Leaf, Flowers Eatable

Malanga/Calluloo/Otoe                     American Taro, Starchy Root, Many Confusing Names 

Maltesda                                           Maltled Milk Shake

Mamee Cerera/Ciruela                      Canistel, Eggfruit, Indigenous

Mamee/Abrico De Para/Abricote      Apple Like, San Domingo, S.A. Apricot, Indigenous

Mamey De La Tierra                         Sapote, Many Varieties, Confusing, Indigenous

Mamey                                              Fruit, Ice Cream Flavor, Indigenous, Not Exported

Mamon Chino                                   Rambutan, Not Indigenous

Mamon/Mamoncillo/Quenepa             Genip, Spanish Lime, Indigenous, Bark For War Paint

Mamon/Lucma/Rucma                      Lucmo, Little Know Or Exported, Indigenous

Manati                                              Manatee

Manchego                                         Spanish Cheese Great For Melting

Mandarina                                        Mandarin Orange, Tangerine, Not Indigenous

Mango/Huevos De Toro/Manga                 Perhaps 1000 Varieties, Not Indigneous

Mangostin/Mangostán/Sastra           Mangosteen, Purple, Fruit And Seeds Eaten, Not Indigenous

Mangotin                                          Purple Mombin, Spanish Plum, Not Indigenous

Mani/Manises                                       Peanuts, Indigenous

Manitas De Cerdo                                      Pigs Feet

Manteca De Res                                Beef Fat, Suet

Manteca                                            Pork Lard

Mantequilla                                       Butter

Manzana                                           Apple, Not Indigenous

Manzanilla                                        Little Apple, Not Indigenous

Maracuya                                          Purple Passion Fruit. Indigenous

Maranon Curazao                                       Mountain Apple, Wax Jambu, Not Indigenous

Maranon/Caja Acaju                         Cashew And Its Apple, Actually The Seed, Indigenous

Margarina                                         Margarine

Marinar/Marinado                                Marinate

Mariposa                                          Butterflyfish, Many Varieties

Marisco                                             Seafood, Usually Meaning Shellfish

Marlin                                               Marlin, Several Species

Marolo                                              Pond Apple, Another Annona, Indigenous

Marron                                              Stem Of The Cashew, Vegetable, Indigenous

Masa                                                 Tamale Dough, Any Starch, Tortillas

Matassano, Zapote Blanco               White Sapote, Indigenous

Matimba/Guanábano Pun                           Soncoya, Another Annona, Indigenous

Mazamorra                                       Corn Starch Thickened Chicha with Fruit

Mazorcas                                          Corn On The Cob

Mejillones                                         Mussels

Mejorana                                           Marjoram, Not Indigenous

Melaza/Miel De Cana                        Molasses

Melicocca                                          Mamoncillo/Genip, Indigenous

Melano                                              Orange Horny Melon, Indigenous

Melocoton/Durazno                          Peach Not Indigenous

Melon Chino                                     Canteloupe Not Indigenous

Melon                                                Melon Not Indigenous

Membrillo                                         Quince Or Quince Paste Snack, Not Indigenous

Menta         / Hierba Buena                        Mint Not Indigenous

Menudencias                                     Giblets

Merluza                                             Hake Or Whiting

Mermelada                                        Jam, Marmalade

Mero                                                 Grouper Several Varities

Metate                                               Three Legged Grinding Stone

Mezclar                                             To Mix

Miaz                                                  Dried Corn

Michita                                              Hot Dog Bun Shaped Local Bread

Miel                                                   Honey

Migas                                                          Bread Crumbs

Milanesa                                           Any Cutlet, Breaded

Milpa                                                          A Mixed Use Farming Method

Mimbro/Tiriguro                               Bilimbi, A Sort Of Carambola Or Star Fruit, Not Indigenous

Mocambo                                          Cacao Like Seeds And Fruit, Indigenous

Mofeta/Zorilla                                   Skunk        

Mofongo                                           Plantain “Meatballs”, Mixed Casserole

Mojarra                                             Vieja, 16 Species

Mola/Pez Luna                                  Sunfish, Several Species

Molar/Molido                                    Ground, To Grind

Molde Para Pastel                                       Cake Pan

Molde/Moldear                                 Mold, To Mold-Shape

Molida, Carne                                   Grind, Hamburger

Molido                                              Ground

Molle/Molli                                       Various Forms Of Pepper, Real & False

Mollejas                                            Stewed Chicken Intestine/Gizzards Appetizer

Mollejas De Res/Lechecillas              Sweetbreads, The Beef Thymus

Mollete                                              Muffin

Mombin/Ciruela                                Term Applied To Various Plum Like Fruits

Mono                                                          Monkey

Mondongo                                        Tripe Stew Lots Of Starchy Vegetables

Moras                                                         Berries, Not Indigenous

Mora Negra                                               Blackberries, Not Indigenous

Moros Y Cristianos                          Black Beans And Rice, Moors & Christians

Morros                                              Cheeks Like Beef And Pigs Or Cod

Mostaza                                            Mustard, Not Indigenous

Mujol                                                          Mullet

Mula                                                 Rabbit

Mullaca/Camapu                               Wild Tomato, Winter Cherry, Hand Eaten, Indigenous

Muslo                                                         Muscle, Thigh As In Chicken

Nabo                                                 Turnip, Not Indigenous

Najo/Naju/ Chimbombo                    Okra, Baby Okra, Not Indigenous

Name /Yampi/Mapuey/Napi             Yam, Several Colors, 8 Different Ones, Indigneous

Nance Dulce                                      Yellow Small Fruit In Syrup, Indigenous

Nance/Chaparro/Yuco/Nanzi            Fruit, Chicas, Golden Spoon, Wild Cherry, Shoemakers Tree

Naranja Agria/Acida/Amarga           Seville Bitter Blood Orange, Not Indigenous

Naranja                                             Sweet Orange, Not Indigenous

Naranjilla//Lulo                                 Hairy Little Orange Like Fruit, Indigenous

Natilla/Nata Agria                                      Sour Cream

Natillas                                             Custard/Flan

Neque                                                Agouti, Large Rodent

Nispero De Japon                                       Loquat, Not Indigenous

Nispero/Zapotilla/Chicle                             Sapodilla/Naseberry, Indigenous

No Engordante                                  Non Fattening

Nogales                                             Walnuts, Not Indigenous

Nopal                                                         Cactus Paddles, Indigenous

Nuez Moscada                                  Nutmeg, Not Indigenous

Nuez                                                  Nut

Nutria                                                         Otter

Olla Expres                                       Pressure Cooker

Olla                                                   Pot

Olosapo                                            Pickle Like Fruit, Little Known, Indigenous

Onza                                                 Ounce

Ossobucco                                        Shank, Beef

Orca                                                  Whale, Killer And False

Orégano Brujo                                  Wild Orégano

Oregano                                            Oregano, Not Indigenous

Orejas                                               Ears As In Pig

Ostion                                               Oyster

Ostionaeria                                       Small Seafood Diner

Oto/Otoe/Malanga                                      Starchy Taro Root, Purple, Yellow, Fuzzy

Pacay, Inga Feuileei                          Like The Ice Cream Bean, Pulp Eaten

Paella                                                          Spanish Rice Casserole

Paleta                                                          Chuck, Pot Roast, Blade Steaks, Short Ribs

Paletilla                                             Beef Chuck

Palmera                                             Palm Trees Fruits, Hearts, Cabbage, Oil & Wine 100’s

Palmitos                                            Heart Of Palm, Indigenous

Palo De Velas                                   Candle Tree, Fruit Resembles Candles, Not Indigenous

Paloma                                              Dove

Palomilla De Res                               Top Sirloin

Palomilla De Punta                           Tri Tip

Palomitas De Maize                          Popcorn

Pampano                                           Pompano

Pan De Molde                                   Sliced Bread, A Pullman Loaf

Pan Intergal                                                Whole Wheat

Pan Molido                                       Bread Crumbs

Pan                                                    Bread

Pana/Panapen/Fruta De Pan             Bread Fruit, No Seeds, Not Indigenous

Panela/Panocha/Piloncilla                 Unrefined Sugar

Panqueque/Hojuela/Panque                  Pancake

Papa Fritas/Francesas                       French Fries Or Chips

Papagayo                                          Parrot

Papa/Patata                                                Potato, Indigenous

Papaya/Mamao/Lechoza                             Several Varieties, Indigenous Herb/Plant

Papel De Aluminio                            Aluminum Foil

Papel                                                 Paper

Para Guava/Araca Pera                     Another Guava, Indigenous

Parcha                                               Passion Fruit/ Indigenous

Pargo                                                Snapper, Perhaps 8 Varieties/Sea Bream            

Parrilla                                              Grill Or Grill Restaurant

Pasar Por Cedazo                              To Shift

Pasito/Majaguillo                              Jamaica Cherry, Indigenous

Pastel                                                          Cake

Pasteles                                             Stuffed Dumplings, Wrapped In Leaves Coked

Pastelitos                                          Small Empanadas, Tapas

Pastinara/Chirivia                                       Parsnip, Not Indigenous

Pasty/Pattie                                       Caribbean Empanadas, Lightly Curried Dough

Patacones                                          Flattened, Twice Fried Plantain Slices

Patas De Cerdo                                 Pork Trotters, Pigs Feet

Pato                                                  Duck

Pava                                                  Turkey Hen

Pavera                                               Roasting Pan

Pavo/Guajolote                                 Turkey Tom

Pay                                                    Pie

Peanut Butter Fruit/Bunchosia                   It Smells And Tastes Like It, Indigenous

Pecho Curado                                   Corned Beef Brisket

Pecho          De Res                                    Fresh Brisket, Pot Roast

Pechuga                                             Breast As In Chicken, Turkey Or Duck

Pegao                                                          Hard Rice Residue Like Sizzling Rice

Pejibaye Palm                                   Peach Palm Tree Providing Hearts Of Palm, Indigenous

Pejibaye/Piva/Pixba/Cachipay          Peach Palm Fruit, And Flowers, Street Food Indigenous

Pelador                                              Potato Peeler

Pelar/Pelado                                                To Peel, Peeled Or Skinned

Pepinillo                                            Gherkins

Pepino/Pepino Dulce                         Native Cucumber Like

Pepino Chino                                    Cucumber, Not Indigenous

Pepita                                                         Small Seed

Pera                                                   Pear, Not Indigenous

Percha                                               Fresh Water Perch

Perejil                                                Parsley, Not Indigenous

Perezoso                                            Sloth, Several Species

Perico                                                         Parrakeet

Perifollo                                            Chervil, Not Indigenous

Pernil De Cerdo                                Pork Shoulder, Boston Butt-Picnic Ham

Perro Caliente                                   Hot Dog

Pescado                                             Fish, Usually Applies  To Fin Fish

Pescuezo                                            Necks, Like Beef And Chicken

Pez Espada                                       Swordfish

Pez Gallo                                           Rooster Fish

Picadillo                                            Forcemeat With Raisins, Olives & Sofrito

Picado                                               Pieces as in Steak Picado

Picante                                              Spicy

Picar                                                  Chop

Pichon                                               Pidgeon

Picuda                                               Barracuda

Piel                                                    Skin

Pierna                                                         Leg/Shoulder/Round Top And Bottom

Pimenta                                             Allspice Berries, Indigenous

Pimenta Negra/Blanco                      Pepper Black/White

Pimenta Verde Fresca                       Fresh Green Peppercorns

Pimento De Cocinar                          Italian Frying Pepper, Kitchen Peppers

Pimento                                             Sweet Chili Pepper, Various Colors

Pimentón Dulce                                 Paprika

Pimienta Jamaica                              All Spice, Indigenous

Pina/Anana/Nanas                                      Pineapple, Indigenous

Pincho                                               Spanish Brochettes, Skewers

Pinon                                                Pine Nut, Mostly Mexican

Pinuelero/Tepari                               Tepary Bean, Indigenous

Pintada                                              Guinea Hen

Pionono                                            Plantain Fritter Basket Stuffed

Pipa/Aqua De Coco                          Coconut Water

Piro/Rozelle/Naju                              Sorrell, Not Indigenous

Pitahaya/Pitaya                                 Strawberry Pear, Dragon Cactus Fruit, Indigenous

Pitanga/Cereza De Cayena/Cuadrada         Surinam Cherry, Purple, Indigenous

Pizca                                                 A Pinch

Plancha                                             Grill, Flatop

Plantain                                             Vegetable Like Banana, Usually Cooked, Not Indigenous

Plantanitos                                        Fried Plantain Chip

Plantano Macho                                Plantain Unripened

Plantano Maduro                              Ripe Fried Spears

Plantano                                            Various Varieties Of Bananas, Not Indigenous

Plantanos Tentacion                         Candied Plantains

Planton/Grande/Fuente                     Large Or Strong Platter

Platillo                                              Small Plate

Plato                                                 Plate

Plato De Sopero                                Soup Plate

Plato Principal/Segundo                       Main Course, Entree

Pollo De Leche                                  Frying Chicken

Pollo                                                 Chicken

Pollo, Asar Y Frier                                     Frying Or Baking Less Then 45 Days Old

Pollo Asar                                         Roasting Chicken, 10 Weeks Old

Polvo De Hornear                                       Baking Powder                                          

Polvo                                                Powder

Polvo                                                Powder, Granulated

Polvorear                                          To Powder, Dust

Pomarrosa/Manzanita De Rosa                  Rose Apple, Not Indigenous

Pomelo/Pumello                                Grapefruit, Not Indigenous

Ponche                                              Punch

Poncho/Capyara                               Agouti

Poner Trocitos Encima                     Dot With Butter, Oil, Cinnamon Etc.

Poner                                                Arrange

Poroto                                               Dried Beans

Poshe Te/Cawesh                              Another Appreciated Annona, Indigenous

Postre                                                         Pastry, Dessert

Presa De Pollo                                  Chicken Pieces

Puerco-Espín                                    Porcupine

Puerco De Monte/Saimo                             Peccary/ Wild Pig Like                               

Puerro                                               Leek, Not Indigenous

Pulpa/Pierna                                               Beef Round, Top, Bottom And Tip

Pulpa Larga/Blanca                           Beef Top  Round

Pulpa Negro                                               Beef Bottom  Round

Pulpa                                                Pulp, Fruti Flesh

Pulpo                                                          Octopus

Punado                                              A Handful

Punta De Palomilla                           Beef Tri Tip

Punta De Ricon                                 Beef Hanger Steak, Onglet

Punto De Ebullición                          Boiling Point

Pure                                                  Puree

Quayatil Colorado, Joqua Blanco     Genipap, Wild For Beverage, Indigenous

Quemado                                          Burned

Quemador                                         Burner

Quemar                                             To Burn, Carmelize

Quenepa China/Lichi                        Lychee, Not Indigenous

Queso Papa                                                Cheddar

Queso         Blanco/Fresco                            Farmers Cheese

Queso                                                         Chesses

Quetzal                                              Bird, Sacred To Some, Dinner To Others

Quijos Granadilla                              Another Passion Fruit, Indigenous

Quimbombo China                                     Roselle, Hibiscus, Flor/Rosa De Jamaica, Not Indigenous

Quimbombo/Quingombo         /Naju           Okra, Not Indigenous

Quita La Piel                                     Remove Skin

Quitar                                                         Get Rid Of, Remove

Rabano Picante/Rustico                    Horseradish, Not Indigenous

Rabano                                             Radish, Not Indigenous

Rabo De Toro                                   Oxtail, Sometimes Only The Upper Portion

Rajas                                                 Strips

Rallar                                                          To Grate

Ramita                                              Sprig As In Parsley

Ramon                                              Breadnut Seed, Boiled And Ground, Indigneous

Raspadura                                        Unrefined, Solid Brown Sugar

Raya/Chucho                                    Sting Ray/Manta/Skate

Rebozar                                             To Coat, Mask

Recaito                                              A Spanish Mirepoix Of  Garlic. Peppers, Culantro, Onion

Recar                                                 The Above, Packaged Fresh In The Produce Section

Receta                                               Recipe

Reducir                                             To Reduce As In Stocks

Refresco’s                                         Ripe Processed Fruit and Water Drink

Refresco/Gaseousa                                     Soda

Rellenar                                             Stuffed Or Filled

Relleno                                              Filling

Remojar                                            To Soak, Rehydrate

Remolacha                                        Bee

Remora                                             Remora, Many Perch Like Species

Repollo                                             Cabbage, Not Indigenous

Reposteria De La Casa                     Baked In House

Reposteria                                         Bakery

Res, Carne                                        Beef

Ricon                                                Eye Of Round

Rinon                                                          Kidney

Robalo                                              Snook, 8 Species

Rociando                                           To Baste

Rodaballo                                         Sea Bass

Rodaballo                                         Turbot, None Here, Imported

Rodillo                                              Rolling Pin

Rollito                                               Roll

Romero                                             Rosemary, Not Indigenous

Ron                                                   Rum

Ronco/Corocoro                               Grunts, Many Species

Ropa Vieja                                        Old Clothes, Stew Of Shredded Shank, Beef

Rosbi                                                Roast Beef

Rosquilla                                           Donut

Roti                                                   Caribbean Crepe, Stuffed With Curried Something

Ruda                                                 Roux

Rueda                                                         Ham Or Leg Slice, Wheel

Sabalo                                               Tarpon, Large Game Fish

Sabana                                              Pounded Tenderloin For Parilla

Sabor                                                          Taste

Sacar Con Cuchara                           To Fill With A Spoon                      

Sal                                                     Salt

Salado/Salada                                   Salted/Salty

Salao                                                 Salted Plum Sometimes Sweet & Sour

Salchicha                                           Vienna Like Sausage, Hot Dog, Sausage

Salchichon                                        Salami

Salmon Ahumando                           Smoked Salmon

Salmon/Macaela                                Salmon

Salmonete/Macaela                           Salmon, Runner, Yellowtail

Salmpimemtar                                  Season With Salt And Pepper

Salpicar                                             Sprinkle

Salsa Bechamel                                 White Cream Sauce

Salsa De Soja/Chino                         Soy Sauce

Salsa Inglesa                                     Worcestershire Sauce

Salsa                                                 Sauce

Salsa Tomate                                    Tomato Sauce

Saltear/Sofreir                                   Saute

Salvado                                             Bran Like Oat Or Rice

Salvia         / Sagi                                       Sage, Not Indigenous

Sancocho                                          The Panamian Soup, Lots Of Roots, & Meats

Sandia                                               Watermelon, Not Indigenous

Sangria                                              Fruity Wine Punch

Sapo/ Pez                                          Checkered Pufferfish

Sapodilla/Nispero/Sapote                           Pear Like Fruit, Chicle, Rubber Tree Fruit, Indigenous

Sapote/Tzapoti/Zapote                     Sunsapote, Often Used Term, Confusing

Saril/Roselle/Flor De Jamaica           Hibiscus, For Infusions, Syrups, Not Indigenous

Sardinas                                            Sardines

Sarsaparilla/Cocolmeca                    Root Used In Early Soft Drinks

Sarten                                                         Frying/Saute Pan

Sastra                                                         Monkey Fruit, Another Magosteen, Indigenous

Sarzamora                                         Blackberry, Not Indigenous

Sazon De A Concinera                      The Cooks Touch, Taste Or Seasoning

Sazon                                                          Seasoning, Like Lawry’s, Goya Spice Mixes

Sazonar                                             To Season With Salt, Pepper Or Base

Seco/ Secar                                        Dry; To Do So

Seco/Seite Letras                               Triple Distilled, Unaged Cane Liquor, Campesinos Favorite

Sellar                                                 Seal

Semilla De Ajonjoli                           Sesame Seed, Not Indigenous

Semilla De Alcaravea                        Caraway Seed, Not Indigenous

Semilla De Amapola                         Poppy Seed, Not Indigenous

Semilla De Apio                                Celery Seed, Not Indigenous

Semillas                                            Seeds

Servilleta                                           Napkin

Seso Vegetable                                  Ackee, Not Indigenous  

Sesos                                                Brains

Sierra/Cero/Caballa                           Mackerel

Sin                                                    Without, Any, No

Sirop                                                 Syrup

Sobremesa                                        After Meal Coversation

Sofreir                                               Light Saute, Stir Fry

Sofrito                                               Mirepoix Ham & Alcaparrado, Or Lightly Fried

Solomillo                                          Tenderloin Steak, Beef Or Pork

Sopa De Pescado                              Fish Soup

Sopa De Venduras                                     Vegetable Soup

Sopa Fideos                                                Noodle Soup

Sopa Seco                                         Rice & Pasta = Dry Soup

Sopa                                                 Soup

Sopera                                              Soup Bowl

Sopon                                                         A Thick Meat & Rice Stew

Sorbete                                              Drinking Straw

Souse                                                          Braised Pig Parts, Head Cheese

Steak Picado                                     Beef, Onions, Peppers, Tomato In Sauce

Suiza                                                 Swiss Style

Sumergir                                           Dip, Submerge

Sunsapote                                         Hand Fruit

Surimi                                               Shaped, Colored Ersatz Fish Types

Sweetsop                                          Sugar Apple, Another Annona, Often Used Term

Tachinos                                           Plantain Chips

Taco Ala Pastor                                Meat Sliced Ala Minute Like Gyro’s

Tacuarazu                                         Bamboo, Many Varieties, Some Indigenous

Tajadas                                             Slices/Fried Ripe Plantain Slices 

Tallo                                                 Kale Or Stalk

Tamal De Olla                                   Tamale In Pie Form

Tamarindo                                        Tamarind, Worcheshire Sauce, Not Indigenous

Tamizar                                             Seive

Tapadera                                           Lid

Tapar                                                          Cover

Tarta, Torta                                                Pie Or Tart

Tasajo                                               Cured Or “Sundried” Beef Or Pork, Jerky, Rock Processed

Taza Para Medir                               Measuring Cup

Taza                                                  Cup

Te Caliente                                        Hot Tea

Te Helado                                         Iced Tea

Te                                                      Tea

Tenedor                                             Fork

Ternera                                             Veal

Tiburón                                             Shark, Many Sizes And Species

Tierno                                               Tender

Tigre                                                 Jaguar

Tigrillo                                              Jaguarundi, Margay

Tilapia                                              Tilapia, Farmed, Sea And Fresh

Tiritas                                               Strips

Tocino                                               Bacon/Pork Fat   

Tomatillo/Fresadilla                                   Green Ground Husk Tomato, Indigenous

Tomate De Arbol/Tomarillo             Tree Tomato, Fruit, Many Varieties, Indigenous

Tomates                                            Tomatoes, Indigenous

Tomillo                                             Thyme, Not Indigenous

Topinambo/Pataca/Augaturma                   Jersusalem Artichoke, Sunchoke, Indigenous

Toronja                                             Citrón, Usually Candied, Not Indigenous

Torrija                                               French Toast

Tortuga                                             Turtle

Tostado/Tostador/Tostar                           Toasted, Toaster, To Toast

Tostonera                                          Wooded Press, Flat Or Basket For Tostones

Tostones                                           Twice Fried Plantains

Tocan                                                         Toucan

Transferir                                          Transfer

Trigo                                                 Wheat, Not Indigenous, Whole Wheat Flour

Tripa/Mondango                               Tripe/ Tripe Stew

Trocitos De Pollo                              Chicken Nuggets

Trocitos                                            Nuggets As In Chicken

Trucha De Mar                                 Sea Trout

Trucha                                              Trout

Tuna                                                 Cactus Blossom, Many Types, Indigenous

Uchuva/Capuli/Uvilla                       Inca/Golden/Amazon Berry Very Sweet, Indigenous

Untar                                                Smear

Uva                                                   Grape, Not Indigenous

Uva De Playa, Papaturro                           Sea Grape, Resembles Grapes, Coastal, Indigenous

Uva Pasa                                           Raisin

Vaca                                                  Cow

Vaciar                                               Empty

Vainas De Vainilla                                     Vanilla Beans, Indigenous

Vainilla                                             Vanilla

Vapor                                                         Steam

Vaso                                                 Water, Drinking Glass

Venado/Ciervo                                  Deer

Veneras                                             Scallops

Verdura/Legumbre                                      Vegetable

Verter                                                         Pour

Vinagre                                             Vinegar, Not Indigenous

Vísceras De Cerdo O Res                           Parts And Offal Of Pork And Beef

Volador                                             Flying Fish, Several Species

Volver                                               Return

Yautia/Malanga/Tannier                             Root Like Corm, Several Varieties, Indigenous

Yema                                                Yolk

Yerba                                                          Spanish For Herb, Lot Of Wild Varieties

Yerba Buena                                     Wild Mint, Not Indigenous

Yerba Santa                                                Licorice Flavored Herb

Yuca                                                 Cassava, Manioc, Indigneous

Yuca Frita                                         Deep Fried Yuca Fries Or Chips

Yucca                                                          Flowers, Fruits and Stem Eaten, Not Root, Indigenous

Zahino/Saino                                     Peccary, Wild Pig

Zanahoria                                          Carrot, Not Indigenous

Zapallo                                              Squash, Zuchinni, Pumpkin, Gourd, Indigenous

Zapote Negro                                    Black Sapote, More Like A Persimmon, Indigenous

Zapote/Mammee Sapota                             Sapote, Indigenous                                    

Zazamora                                          Blackberry, Not Indigenous

Zifio                                                  Whale, Rare Sighted, Various Species

Zorra                                                 Opossum/Possum, Many Species