30 Authentic Guatemalan Foods and Recipes You Must Try

Guatemala is a country that effortlessly blends dramatic volcanic landscapes with rich cultural heritage, including the iconic colonial city of Antigua. While its history and culture are well-known, Guatemala’s culinary scene often takes center stage, showcasing the vibrant flavors of Central American cuisine. Unfamiliar with most of these dishes?

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a vast array of traditional Guatemalan foods and recipes, perfect for those looking to connect with their heritage or simply expand their gastronomic horizons. In total, we’re excited to share 30 authentic Guatemalan dishes and recipes with you.

Guatemalan Rice Pilaf

In the heart of Guatemalan cuisine lies Arroz Guatemalteco, a humble yet flavorful rice dish that has become a staple in many households. At its core, it’s a simple combination of white rice, an assortment of vegetables, and chicken stock. This beloved side dish is often served alongside other Guatemalan favorites, making it a versatile and comforting accompaniment to any meal.

What’s more, Arroz Guatemalteco is also a thrifty and resourceful way to use up leftover or frozen vegetables, reducing food waste and saving time in the kitchen. With its adaptability and ease of preparation, it’s little wonder that every household has its own special take on this dish. And so, we invite you to experiment and make Arroz Guatemalteco your own! Simply follow the recipe and let the culinary creativity flow.

Chuchitos

Chuchitos, another beloved Guatemalan street food, bear a striking resemblance to tamales in terms of composition. Like their tamale counterparts, chuchitos consist of meat or vegetables cooked in a rich tomato sauce, carefully wrapped within the folds of a corn leaf or dried maize. While the two share some similarities, one notable distinction sets chuchitos apart: their bite-sized nature, which makes them an ideal snack or appetizer, rather than a substantial meal.

With this characteristic, chuchitos are often devoured between meals or as a light repast.

Hilachas

In Guatemala, comfort food takes on a unique flavor with Hilachas, a hearty shredded beef stew that warms hearts as much as it does bellies. This beloved dish typically combines tender shards of beef with potatoes, green beans, tomatoes, and chayote squash – sometimes supplemented by other vegetables – all swimming in a rich tomato sauce. When served alongside fluffy white rice or wrapped in a tortilla with crispy avocado slices, Hilachas truly becomes a meal to savor.

And, as any aficionado will attest, the slow cooker is the perfect vessel for coaxing out the tender, fall-apart texture that makes this dish so irresistible.

Tostadas

 

In times when a hearty stew or soup isn’t feasible, tostadas prove to be an ideal solution for a satisfying and quick lunchtime meal or snack. The versatility of these deep-fried tortillas lies in their ability to be either store-bought or homemade. Once you have your tostada, it’s time to get creative with the toppings – options range from a rich black bean spread to creamy guacamole and fresh salsa.

Jocón De Pollo

In Guatemala, Jocón de pollo is a staple dish for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. The vibrant green color and tangy flavor of the stew come from the combination of jalapeños, cilantro, tomatillos, and green onion in the sauce. What sets this dish apart is the poached chicken, which adds a layer of healthiness by avoiding fried chicken altogether. This unique approach results in a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s sure to please.

Cocido

In Guatemala, Cocido is a beloved traditional stew that warms the hearts and bellies of locals on chilly days. This hearty dish is built around tender beef, which becomes even more succulent when slow-cooked to perfection. A medley of colorful vegetables like carrots, cassava, tomatoes, and onions adds natural sweetness and depth to each rich and satisfying spoonful.

To complete this comforting meal, Cocido is typically served atop fluffy white rice, accompanied by a spicy kick from a drizzle of hot sauce.

Pulique

Indulge in the rich flavors of Guatemala with Pulique, a mouthwatering sauce that’s perfect for those who crave juicy chicken. This thick and savory condiment is typically slathered over generous portions of chicken, resulting in a finger-lickin’ good meal that’s sure to leave you wanting more. The combination of succulent chicken, green beans, chayote, and bell peppers creates a delightful harmony of textures and tastes.

Interestingly, Pulique plays a significant role in Guatemalan culture, often served at special events like rituals, festivals, and parties.

Fiambre

Fiambre, a beloved Guatemalan dish, is a vibrant celebration of flavors and colors. While it’s often served chilled, this festive salad has a special significance at two important holidays: Día de los Muertos and Día de Todos los Santos. As with many family recipes, each household has its own unique take on Fiambre, but the core ingredients remain the same.

A medley of meats, tangy pickled onions and baby corn, creamy hard-boiled eggs, earthy beets, briny olives, crisp cauliflower, sweet carrots, and a blend of cheeses all come together to create this colorful feast.

Ceviche De Camerón

In Guatemala, the beloved dish Ceviche de Camerón offers a delightful fusion of flavors. A medley of freshly cooked shrimp, onions, tomatoes, cilantro, celery, and lime juice harmonize to create a refreshing culinary experience. This light and zesty dish is often served as a satisfying lunch or snack, particularly on days spent lounging by the beach. Its simplicity allows it to be enjoyed on its own or paired with crackers for added crunch.

While shrimp-based ceviche is a staple, variations featuring octopus, black clams, and white fish also tantalize the taste buds.

Chojín

In Guatemalan cuisine, Chojín is a refreshing salad that often takes center stage as a side dish in grand meals. At its core, it’s a harmonious blend of chopped radishes, fragrant mint, and crispy fried pork rinds known as chicharrones. But don’t worry, vegans can easily join the party by skipping the pork and embracing the salad’s natural flavor profile.

For added depth and creaminess, some enthusiasts like to toss in diced cucumber and avocado, which beautifully balance out the radishes’ spicy kick. Whether you’re looking for a side dish to complement your next big meal or a quick and satisfying lunch option, Chojín is an excellent choice.

Tapado

In the culinary traditions of Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras, Tapado holds a special place as a hearty seafood soup. The dish is characterized by its rich blend of lobster, fresh fish, succulent shrimp, starchy yucca, and sweet plantain, all simmered to perfection in a creamy coconut milk-based broth.

As the flavors meld together, the delicate taste of the fish is beautifully complemented by the sweetness of the yucca, while the coconut milk adds a velvety smoothness and subtle spiciness, making for a truly satisfying meal.

Chiles Rellenos

In Guatemala, the traditional Mexican dish, chiles rellenos, takes on a unique flavor profile. This beloved recipe involves stuffing sweet bell peppers with tender beef and an assortment of vegetables, then coating them in a crispy batter and frying to perfection. The finishing touch is a rich tomato sauce, adding a burst of flavor to each bite.

Escabeche

For those who crave a bold flavor, escabeche is an absolute must-try. This vibrant condiment, comprising pickled jalapeños, carrots, onions, cabbage, and pacayas, packs a punch that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. The star of the show is undoubtedly the pickled jalapeños – a spicy and fiery treat that will leave even the most adventurous eaters wanting more. Whether you’re looking for a snappy side dish or a flavorful snack, escabeche is an excellent choice.

Kak’ik

In Guatemala, Kak’ik is a beloved traditional soup that warms hearts and bellies during the winter months. This iconic Mayan dish is typically made with rich, dark turkey meat simmered in a spicy red broth that’s packed with flavor. The sauce is what really sets Kak’ik apart – it’s a complex blend of roasted red peppers, juicy tomatoes, tangy tomatillos, aromatic cloves, warm cinnamon, and a hint of heat from the Cobanero chili.

To fully appreciate this hearty soup, serve it with a side of fluffy white rice, small tamales, or crusty bread to mop up every last drop.

Chirmol

In the heart of Latin America, Chirmol, a vibrant and flavorful dip, has been delighting palates for generations. This quintessential Guatemalan condiment is crafted by combining smoky tomatoes, zesty lime juice, pungent onions, fragrant cilantro, and refreshing mint. The result is a sauce that’s surprisingly similar to a salsa, hence its nickname – the Guatemalan salsa!

Despite its straightforward preparation process, Chirmol is an extraordinary dip that bursts with flavor, making it an ideal accompaniment for crispy tortillas and crunchy chips.

Sopa De Frijol

In Guatemala, sopa de frijol is more than just a meal – it’s a symbol of warmth and comfort. This humble black bean soup, made with the simplest ingredients like dried turtle beans, garlic, onion, and water, packs a big flavor punch. When served with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, this vegan soup is a true delight. For an added depth of flavor, try adding some crispy pork rinds or a dollop of creamy cashew sour cream to give it that extra oomph.

With its gentle simmer and comforting aroma, sopa de frijol is the perfect remedy for a chilly day.

Garnachas

Garnachas are incredibly versatile, making them perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or satisfying midday snack. The dish typically consists of a crispy tortilla, whether store-bought or homemade, topped with an abundance of flavorsome ingredients like ground beef, zesty salsa, vibrant purple cabbage, juicy tomatoes, and more. For the finishing touch, a sprinkle of creamy feta cheese or tangy sour cream adds a delightful burst of flavor. This snack is sure to hit the spot!

Empanadas De Leche

In Guatemala, a beloved sweet treat that’s particularly prominent during the Easter season is empanadas de leche, or sweet cream empanadas. At its core, this dessert features a unique dough blend of flour and cornmeal, carefully crafted to provide a tender yet crumbly texture. The real showstopper, however, lies within – a rich and creamy filling infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the subtle sweetness of vanilla.

After baking until a lightly golden hue, empanadas de leche are ready to be devoured, making them an integral part of Guatemalan traditions surrounding Semana Santa.

Champurradas

While the term ‘champurradas’ may evoke thoughts of Mexican cuisine, this traditional Guatemalan treat is actually a type of cookie that’s savored throughout the day as a snack or light dessert, often paired with a hot beverage like coffee. With just a few simple ingredients – including butter, flour, sugar, eggs, and toasted sesame seeds – these delicious cookies are sure to disappear quickly, making them an ideal offering for guests.

Torrejas

In the Latin American tradition, Torrejas is a beloved sweet treat, often associated with Christmas and Lent. This scrumptious dish is made by soaking brioche or sweet bread in a mixture of eggs and milk, then frying it to golden perfection in oil. The bread is then drenched in a rich syrup, typically comprising sugar, spices, and sometimes a hint of rum. While traditional recipes abound, feel free to get creative with the flavors!

Rellenitos De Plátano

In the realm of Guatemalan sweets, Rellenitos de plátano is an intriguing treat that blends the familiar with the unexpected. This cookie-like confection combines refried black beans, plantains, sugar, and occasional hints of cinnamon and vanilla to create a unique flavor profile. The rellenitos are then deep-fried until golden brown, making them perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a sweet indulgence after a meal.

Arroz Con Leche

In Guatemala, Arroz con leche is more than just a sweet treat – it’s a comforting dessert that warms the heart. While its creamy texture and milky aroma evoke a sense of warmth, the addition of cooked rice gives this pudding a unique twist. The combination of evaporated milk, sugar, and cinnamon creates a delightful flavor profile that’s particularly cozy during the winter months.

Traditional Guatemalan Enchiladas

While enchiladas are often synonymous with Mexico, Guatemala boasts its own unique take on this beloved dish. Guatemalan enchiladas, also known as jardineras, deviate significantly from their Mexican counterparts. A traditional preparation involves piling ground meat, beets, and vegetables atop a crunchy fried corn tortilla, finished with melted cheese and a hard-boiled egg. This flavorful treat is a staple at street vendors nationwide, with every household possessing its own cherished recipe.

Despite the popularity of this dish, there’s no one ‘right’ way to make Guatemalan enchiladas – it’s all about family traditions and personal flair.

Guatemalan Tamales Colorados

In Guatemala, tamales hold a special place in the country’s culinary culture. While it may not be officially declared as the national dish, its widespread popularity during holidays, feasts, and traditional Saturdays – aptly known as ‘tamales days’ – is undeniable.

The unique flavor profile of Guatemalan tamales, particularly the colorados variety, stems from the combination of meat or vegetables cooked in a rich recado sauce, encased in a delicate corn masa and wrapped in fragrant banana leaves. What sets these apart from their Mexican counterparts is the slightly thinner consistency of the masa, a characteristic that’s distinctly Guatemalan.

Pepián De Pollo

In Guatemala, a rich and flavorful chicken stew called Pepián de Pollo holds a special place as the national dish. This comforting concoction is characterized by its velvety texture, courtesy of a harmonious blend of tomatoes, chilies, and pumpkin seeds. The aroma alone is enough to tantalize taste buds, making it the centerpiece of many celebrations. While personal touches may vary from one household to another, Pepián de Pollo remains an accessible and inviting dish that’s easy to prepare.

To fully appreciate its depth, serve it with a stack of warm tortillas or crusty bread to mop up every last drop of the savory sauce.

Guatemalan Chicken With Pineapple

In Guatemala, Pollo en Pina is a cherished culinary staple that harmoniously unites chicken and pineapple flavors. The combination of sweet and savory notes is a match made in heaven, rivaling even the iconic pairing on pizza. What’s more, this delightful dish requires minimal effort and employs common pantry staples, making it an accessible treat for all. When serving, consider laying a foundation of fluffy white rice to complement the meal.

Caldo De Pollo

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of homemade soup. Caldo de pollo, a hearty chicken-based broth, is the epitome of warmth and nourishment. This wholesome dish is reminiscent of the loving care that only a mother or grandmother can provide – it’s the perfect remedy for a cold, a long day at school or work, or simply a pick-me-up when you need it most.

What’s more, this delicious broth can be prepared and ready to devour in just 45 minutes, making it an excellent option for a quick yet satisfying meal.

Shucos

Experience the vibrant street food scene in Guatemala with Shucos, a mouthwatering twist on traditional hot dogs. This indulgent snack combines juicy hot dog wieners and longaniza sausages with a medley of flavors, including seasoned cabbage, creamy guacamole, and an array of sauces all nestled within a toasted bun.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to spice up your snacking routine, Shucos are sure to impress your friends and family with their bold and exciting flavor profile.

Conclusion

As we wrap up our culinary journey through Guatemala, it’s clear that the country’s rich gastronomy extends far beyond its ancient Mayan heritage. With vibrant flavors and a passion for food, Guatemalans have crafted a cuisine that’s as bold as it is delicious. Now that you’re armed with a deeper understanding of this Central American nation’s culinary delights, get ready to fire up your kitchen and start cooking!