Pásame al Otro Lado”: A Traditional Manabi Dish you Must Taste in Ecuador

I’ve tasted Ecuadorian food all my life. Still, just a few months ago, I discovered something new. While visiting La Herencia Manabita in Cumbayá, I found a dish with a curious name: “Pásame al otro lado.” Their version included shrimp instead of meat, and it was absolutely delicious.

Planning your visit to Ecuador?

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Planning a Trip to Manabí?

If you’ve fallen in love with the taste of colonche and want to experience more from its origin, plan a trip to Manabí, it offers unforgettable food and nature experiences.

✨ Check out our full guide to visit Manabí to discover where to eat, what to do, and how to make the most of your time in this flavorful region.

What is “Pásame al otro lado”?

This dish from Manabí combines green plantains, rice, and meat—or shrimp, in modern twists. The plantains are slow-cooked into a hearty stew. The meat is shredded and flavorful. A fresh criolla sauce of tomatoes, onions, and herbs tops it all. You eat it with rice and sometimes cocolón, the crispy rice at the bottom of the pot.

The Unique History Behind the Name

“Pásame al otro lado” means “Take me to the other side.” It’s more than a name—it’s a story. This dish was first made in San Antonio de Chone, Manabí. Back then, hungry customers had to cross a river by canoe to reach the women who prepared it. They would call to the boatman, “Pásame al otro lado!” And just like that, the dish got its name.

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How to Eat It

It’s a comforting, filling dish—great for lunch or dinner. You scoop up the menestra (stew) and shredded meat or shrimp with rice. The fresh salsa on top adds a tangy punch. If you’re lucky, you’ll get cocolón too—crispy, golden rice that adds crunch.

Make It at Home

You don’t need to travel to Manabí to taste this dish. Make your own “Pásame al otro lado” at home! Here’s a step-by-step recipe on Cookpad. It’s easy, rich in flavor, and brings a piece of Ecuador to your kitchen.

If you are really a foodie, we have our top 10 traditional food to taste while in Ecuador. 

Don’t Miss These Other Manabí Favorites

When you’re in Ecuador, also try:

• Bolón – read more here

• Cazuela – read more here

• Corviche – read more here

• Tigrillo – read more here

• Tonga Manabita – read more here
• Muchines – read more here
• Colonche – read more here

These classics are packed with coastal flavor and loved across the country.

Best Day Tours in and from Ecuador

Want to explore Ecuador beyond the food? Try these top-rated GetYourGuide tours:

• 🌄 Cotopaxi National Park Day Tour

• 🏞 Quilotoa Lagoon Adventure

• 🏙 Quito City Tour and Teleferico

• Cooking Class and Market Tour in Quito

Taste, travel, and explore together—Ecuador is full of flavor and fun.

Final Bite

“Pásame al otro lado” is more than just food. It’s history, culture, and community on a plate. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, you’ll want to try this comforting and flavorful dish. Especially if you’re a couple exploring the best of Ecuador together!

Ready to plan your trip?  Let us know which dish is your favorite in the comments below.

Enjoy!

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Want to Learn to make some of these dishes and many more? Gran Cocina Latina: The Food of Latin America, This book comprises 500 well-written recipes from all Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America, providing great information and recipes of the exciting food you can prepare at home. At the same time, you plan your visit to South America.

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