Venezuelan cuisine is a vibrant blend of indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. It features a variety of ingredients, including corn, beans, rice, and tropical fruits. Popular dishes include arepas, which are cornmeal patties filled with various ingredients, and pabellón criollo, a traditional dish made with shredded beef, black beans, rice, and fried plantains. Street food is also an essential part of Venezuelan culture, with options like empanadas and tequeños, which are cheese-filled pastries. Meals often emphasize communal dining, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and the importance of family and social gatherings in everyday life.