Guatemala, a land of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, offers a culinary landscape as diverse and vibrant as its landscapes. Influenced by Mayan traditions, Spanish colonization, and Afro-Caribbean influences, Guatemalan cuisine boasts a tantalizing array of flavors, textures, and aromas that reflect the country’s unique cultural tapestry.
Whether you’re exploring the cobblestone streets of Antigua, the bustling markets of Chichicastenango, or the lush highlands of Lake Atitlán, here are eight traditional dishes you simply must try during your vacation to Guatemala:
Key Takeaways
- Tamales are a beloved staple of Guatemalan cuisine, enjoyed year-round but especially during holidays and celebrations
- Fiambre is a traditional Guatemalan dish that is enjoyed during the annual Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day) celebration on November 1st
- Embark on a culinary journey through Guatemala and experience the rich diversity of flavors, ingredients, and traditions that define Guatemalan cuisine
Pepián: A Hearty and Flavorful Stew
Pepián is a traditional Guatemalan stew that is bursting with flavor and history. This hearty dish features tender chunks of meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork, simmered in a rich and fragrant sauce made from roasted tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, and spices.
Pepián is typically served with rice and tortillas, allowing diners to soak up every last drop of the savory sauce.
Where to Try It
Visit a traditional Guatemalan restaurant or comida típica (local eatery) in cities like Antigua, Guatemala City, or Quetzaltenango to savor a steaming bowl of Pepián served with all the traditional accompaniments.
Kaq Ik: Mayan-Inspired Turkey Stew
Kaq Ik is a traditional Mayan dish that pays homage to Guatemala’s indigenous heritage. This rich and aromatic stew features turkey pieces simmered in a flavorful tomato and chili-based sauce, seasoned with a blend of spices such as achiote, coriander, cumin, and oregano.
Kaq Ik is often served with rice, tortillas, and a side of fresh vegetables, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Where to Try It
Look for Kaq Ik on the menu at traditional Guatemalan restaurants and indigenous food festivals, particularly in regions with strong Mayan cultural influences such as the highlands of Quetzaltenango and the department of El Quiché.
Tamales: Guatemalan Corn Dumplings
Tamales are a beloved staple of Guatemalan cuisine, enjoyed year-round but especially during holidays and celebrations. These flavorful corn dumplings are made from masa (corn dough) that is filled with a variety of savory ingredients, such as chicken, pork, vegetables, or cheese, and then wrapped in banana leaves or corn husks before being steamed to perfection. Tamales are often served with a side of salsa or spicy tomato sauce for dipping.
Where to Try It
Tamales can be found at street food stalls, markets, and traditional Guatemalan bakeries throughout the country. Look for vendors selling tamales during festivals, holidays, and special events, or visit a local market in cities like Guatemala City, Quetzaltenango, or Chichicastenango.
Chiles Rellenos: Stuffed Peppers
Chiles Rellenos are a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases Guatemala’s love of bold flavors and fresh ingredients. This traditional dish features roasted poblano peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of meat, cheese, vegetables, and spices, then coated in a light batter and fried until golden and crispy. Chiles Rellenos are typically served with rice, beans, and a side of salsa or guacamole.
Where to Try It
Look for Chiles Rellenos on the menu at traditional Guatemalan restaurants and comida típica eateries, particularly in cities like Antigua, Guatemala City, or Quetzaltenango.
Pupusas: Grilled Corn Cakes
Pupusas are a beloved street food in Guatemala, made from thick corn tortillas that are filled with a variety of savory ingredients, such as cheese, beans, meat, or vegetables, and then grilled until crispy and golden. These flavorful corn cakes are often served with a side of curtido (pickled cabbage slaw) and salsa roja (red salsa), adding a refreshing and tangy contrast to the rich and savory filling.
Where to Try It
Pupusas can be found at street food stalls, markets, and food courts throughout Guatemala, particularly in cities with large populations of Salvadoran immigrants such as Guatemala City, Quetzaltenango, and Chiquimula.
Fiambre: Guatemalan Cold Salad
Fiambre is a traditional Guatemalan dish that is enjoyed during the annual Día de Todos los Santos (All Saints’ Day) celebration on November 1st.
This colorful and festive salad features a medley of cold cuts, cheeses, vegetables, and pickled fruits, all arranged in layers on a bed of lettuce and topped with a tangy vinaigrette dressing. Fiambre is a labor of love that is often prepared by families in advance and shared with friends and loved ones during the holiday festivities.
Where to Try It
Fiambre is a specialty dish served during the Día de Todos los Santos celebration in Guatemala. Look for it at local markets, food festivals, and traditional family gatherings, or try making it yourself using a traditional Guatemalan recipe.
Atol de Elote: Sweet Corn Drink
Atol de Elote is a traditional Guatemalan beverage that is enjoyed as a sweet and comforting treat. This creamy corn drink is made from fresh corn kernels that are blended with milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla, then cooked until thick and creamy.
Atol de Elote is often served warm and garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dollop of whipped cream, making it a delightful indulgence on a chilly day.
Where to Try It
Atol de Elote can be found at street food stalls, markets, and traditional Guatemalan bakeries throughout the country. Look for vendors selling atol during festivals, holidays, and special events, or visit a local market in cities like Guatemala City, Quetzaltenango, or Chichicastenango.
Rellenitos de Plátano: Stuffed Plantain Desserts
Rellenitos de Plátano are a delicious and indulgent dessert that is popular throughout Guatemala. These sweet treats are made from ripe plantains that are mashed, stuffed with a mixture of sweetened black beans or refried beans, and then fried until crispy and golden.
Rellenitos de Plátano are often served as a dessert or snack and are enjoyed by both children and adults alike.
Where to Try It
Look for Rellenitos de Plátano at street food stalls, markets, and traditional Guatemalan bakeries throughout the country. These sweet treats are often sold as snacks or desserts at festivals, fairs, and special events, or you can try making them yourself using a traditional Guatemalan recipe.
Final Word
Embark on a culinary journey through Guatemala and experience the rich diversity of flavors, ingredients, and traditions that define Guatemalan cuisine. Whether you’re savoring a steaming bowl of pepián in Antigua, indulging in tamales during a holiday celebration, or enjoying a refreshing atol de elote on a chilly evening, each bite offers a taste of Guatemala’s vibrant culinary tapestry and cultural heritage.
Check out a free travel itinerary to Guatemala here:
