Guagua del Pan and Colada Morada
Today is Día de los Difuntos in Ecuador, or Day of the Deceased, a variation on Mexico’s Day of the Dead. This is a time when Ecuadorians pay tribute to their friends and relatives who have passed away, which usually involves visiting cemeteries and leaving their loved ones flowers, cards, presents and food. Many people dress up in dark colors, like black or dark purple, in remembrance.
Also, people traditionally eat guaguas del pan and drink colada morada at this time, and many bakeries and restaurants start selling both a few weeks prior to November 2. Guaguas del pan are different-sized breads shaped and decorated like little dolls or babies. There are many variations, but they are typically filled with sweet marmalade or cheese. Colada morada is a thick purple drink made with fruits (blackberries, naranjilla, pineapple…) and spices, which is said to symbolize the blood of lost ones. It can be served hot or cold, and is sweet and delicious.
It is important to remember that Día de los Difuntos isn’t a somber day, it is more a celebration of the lives of those who have passed.
