Alejandro Eder interrupted his busy agenda as Mayor of Cali to celebrate that his city favorite dough – Pan de Bono – has been named the best bread in the world. Taking top honors on the most recent ranking of the prestigious foodie website Taste Atlas, this crispy amasijo (mix) out shone other legendary breads such as India’s butter garlic naan, Iran’s nan-e barbari, Italy’s Piadina Romagnola, and France’s Baguette.
Taking to social media to mark Pan de Bono’s ranking on the “Top 50 Best Breads” from around the world, Mayor Eder declared: “Our pandebono is chosen as the best in the world! Yes sirs! This delight will always put Cali in the eyes of the entire planet! If something has potential, it is our gastronomy; Whoever comes here licks his fingers with every delicacy, or am I wrong?”
As a stalwart morning snack in towns and cities across Colombia, the perfect Pan de Bono does herald from the department of Valle del Cauca, and its capital Cali. But if you plan to try one of these delights after midday, you may run out of luck, as it is best accompanied with a cup of coffee or tropical lulada juice.
While the marvels of the Pan de Bono cannot be understated, three other Colombian breads also made the Taste Atlas 50 ranking: Pan de Yuca (No.5); Pan de Queso (No.18); and Almojabana (No.46).
Crafted with yuca starch, cheese, egg, and sweet guava bocadillo, Pan de Bono has captured the hearts and taste buds of both locals and tourists alike. With an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, the pandebono’s widespread popularity has solidified its position as a culinary icon in Colombia.
Known as a “bono” among Caleños, its name also translates as “good bread,” and it’s easy to see why. This delectable bread is known for a distinctive flavor combined with unique regional ingredients.
What sets Pan de Bono apart from other bread varieties is its combination of a salty farmer’s cheese (queso campesino), and ground almidón (yuca starch) harvested in Valle del Cauca. The result in the oven is a crispy bread with a soft and slightly chewy interior, golden crust, and a delightful cheesy aroma. Pan de bono is typically round, making it easy to enjoy as a side dish, or a quick go-to option when running errands.
With diverse culinary traditions and ancestral recipes, Colombia has gained recognition in the global food scene, and Pan de Bono’s presence on this prestigious list reinforces the country’s reputation as a destination for food enthusiasts seeking unique and mouthwatering experiences.
While the annual Taste Atlas list showcases a wide array of bread varieties from around the globe, each with distinct flavors and preparation methods, Brazil’s Pao de Queijo from the Minas de Gerais state came in second, and Chile’s Marraqueta third. This recognition of baking traditions extends beyond the borders of Colombia, putting Latin America at the forefront of expanding culinary landscapes.
The nomination of Cali’s Pan de Bono coincides with the 40th anniversary of the city’s most famous salsa anthem “Cali Pachanguero”, and composed by the legendary Jairo Varela of Grupo Niche.
