Worth The Hunt
The Recipe · No.1273 · Bandeja Paisa

Bandeja Paisa, and where to source it

Bandeja Paisa — Worth The Hunt WORTH THE HUNT Bandeja Paisa Colombian 5best2buy.com

Simmer the red beans low and slow with a whole plantain that dissolves into the pot, thickening the broth without any added starch.

By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026

Prep30 min
Cook2 hours
Makes4 servings
CuisineColombian
Cost$$$
Gluten-freeDairy-free
Contains  eggs
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for 4 servings
Dried red beans
1 lb
1 lb
Local / market
Green plantain
1
1
Ripe plantain, sliced
1
1
Local / market
Pork belly for chicharron
1 lb
1 lb
Ground beef
12 oz
12 oz
White rice, cooked
4 cups
4 cups
Local / market
Eggs, fried
4
4
Local / market
Arepas
4
4
Local / market
Avocado, sliced
1
1
Local / market
Onion and tomato, diced
1 each
1 each
Local / market
The Rundown
Greedometer ●●●●● A fair little treat
A reasonable little indulgence. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortA project
Cook it with
Instant PotSlow cookerOne-pot
The Method
  1. Soak the red beans overnight, then simmer with the whole green plantain until the beans are tender and the broth thickens.2 hours
  2. Score and slow-cook the pork belly, then crisp it into chicharron.45 min
  3. Brown the ground beef with diced onion and tomato.12 min
  4. Fry the ripe plantain slices and the eggs.10 min
  5. Plate beans, rice, beef, chicharron, plantain, egg, arepa, and avocado side by side.5 min
The Toolkit

Large pot · Heavy skillet · Wide platters

Straight Answers
Can you make Bandeja Paisa in an air fryer? — Yes, with an insert

Not on its own — an air fryer can’t hold a pool of liquid. You can simmer it in an oven-safe dish or a silicone insert made to fit the basket, but the broth won’t reduce or brown the way it does on the stove, and that insert comes out scorching, so use oven mitts. For real depth, a pot on the stove wins.

Can you freeze Bandeja Paisa? — Yes

Yes — it freezes well. Cool it fully, portion into airtight containers, and it keeps a few months; thaw in the fridge and reheat gently.

Can you make Bandeja Paisa ahead of time? — Yes

Yes — it holds well and often tastes better the next day. Make it ahead and reheat gently before serving.

Is Bandeja Paisa gluten-free? — Yes

Yes — nothing in this recipe as written contains gluten. As always, glance at the labels on any packaged items (broth, sauces, chocolate), since brands vary.

Is Bandeja Paisa vegan? — No

No — it contains meat, so it isn’t vegetarian or vegan.

Community Notes

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© 2026 5best2buy · Worth The Hunt · Recipe No.1273