1. Pepián de Pollo
Considered the national dish, Pepián is a thick, savory chicken stew. It features a complex sauce made from roasted red and black chiles, sesame seeds, cilantro, tomatoes, and tomatillos, typically served with rice and tortillas.
Top 5 Dishes to Try in Guatemala
Guatemalan cuisine offers a rich fusion of flavors, deeply rooted in ancient Mayan traditions and significantly influenced by Spanish, and to a lesser extent, African and Caribbean culinary practices. The foundational elements include corn, beans, and chiles, complemented by fresh vegetables, meats like chicken and beef, and aromatic, often mild, spices. This blend results in hearty, comforting dishes that tell a story of the country's diverse cultural heritage.
Exploring Guatemalan cuisine caters to various budgets. For economical options, visitors can frequent vibrant street food stalls, which offer quick and inexpensive bites like shucos and tostadas. Local 'comedores' or 'cocinas' provide authentic, budget-friendly meals, often featuring a 'menu del dia' (set daily menu) at very reasonable prices.
Mid-range dining can be found in casual restaurants, where a typical meal with sides might cost between $5 and $10 USD. For those seeking a more refined experience, higher-end restaurants and cafes, particularly in larger cities or tourist hubs, offer upscale traditional or international dishes, though at a significantly higher cost.
2. Kak'ik
This flavorful, spicy turkey soup has Mayan origins, often characterized by its rich red color from tomatoes and chiles. Ingredients can vary slightly by region but always include turkey, creating a robust and aromatic experience.
3. Hilachas
Hilachas is a popular dish consisting of shredded beef simmered with tender potatoes in a mildly spiced, tomato-based sauce known as recado. It is commonly served alongside rice and tortillas.
4. Rellenitos
A popular sweet treat, Rellenitos are fried plantains stuffed with a sweetened black bean paste, sometimes enhanced with chocolate. They offer a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
5. Shucos
Guatemala's distinct take on a hot dog, Shucos are a popular street food. They often include toppings like guacamole, cabbage, and mayonnaise, offering a quick and satisfying bite.
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