Pastel Mandi’o – Yuca Empanada

Paraguay is a bilingual country, with Guaraní as its second official language (the first one is Spanish). As a result, many popular dishes, such as Pastel Mandi'o and Yuca Empanada, have indigenous names.

Unlike traditional empanadas, which are made with wheat flour, Pastel Mandi'o uses cornstarch and yuca flour, which are higher in flavor and nutrients. Aside from that, the two types are prepared in the same way.

Pastel Mandi'o is an excellent example of how the oppressed appropriated the oppressor's culinary treasure. Paraguayans eat it for a variety of meals throughout the year. However, it is more popular during major holidays, such as Saint John's Eve in June. A lot of travelers highly recommended this dish as one of the Paraguayan must-try foods.