27 Guatemalan Foods (+ Traditional Recipes)
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Loading... - Gwen Hebert
- 07 Jan 2022
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Guatemalan cuisine is full of life and flavor, and I have the traditional recipes to prove it!
Guatemalan recipes are a blend of Mayan culture with a touch of Spanish influence. You’ll also notice there’s some crossover with Mexican cuisine.
Heavy on the meat, you find common staples like complex soups and stews. There are also some fresh and light recipes featuring veggies and seafood.
From pupusas to tamales, here are 27 traditional recipes that capture the heart and soul of Guatemala.
1. Pepian de Pollo
What better way to start your exploration of authentic Guatemalan cuisine than with pepian de pollo?
Often referred to as the national dish, pepian de pollo is a hearty stew that’s packed with spice.
This includes ancho chile, guajillo chile, cinnamon, and achiote.
Tortillas are common for serving, but you could also serve this with bread. Either way, you’ll want some sort of side to soak up every last drop.
2. Enchiladas
You’re probably wondering why enchiladas are on this list, but these are much different from what you’ll get with Mexican cuisine.
You won’t find any tortillas stuffed and smothered in a sauce here.
Rather, Guatemalan enchiladas involve topping a crispy tortilla or tostada with escabeche.
While there are some variations, this escabeche consists of beets, beef, and carrots.
The whole thing is then finished off with slices of hard-boiled egg and cheese.
3. Guatemalan Chicken in Coconut Milk
Wondering what Guatemalans eat for comfort food? They eat this dish.
This meal has everything going for it. It’s got a bed of white rice with adobo chicken, sauteed veggies, and a creamy coconut sauce.
4. Pulique
Are you a fan of juicy chicken? Then step right up because you’ll want to feast on this dish.
Pulique is a staple that is typically enjoyed during rituals or festivals. It’s a type of thick stew that can feature a range of meats.
However, this one is all about the chicken. It takes huge pieces of chicken and smothers it in tomatillos and spice.
There are also some green beans, bell peppers, and chayote added to the mix.
5. Guatemalan Rice Pilaf
What sets Guatemalan rice pilaf apart from all the rest is a medley of vegetables, simple spices, and chicken stock.
Each home has its own variation, but I like how this traditional recipe keeps it simple.
This is a fabulous side to pair with pretty much any Guatemalan dish. Read More…
