10 Best Guatemalan Traditional Dishes [Best Local Food in Guatemala]

For some of the best Latin American cuisines, be sure to try the local food in Guatemala that will satisfy your taste buds!

Guatemala has a rich history, from being inhabited by the Mayans in 18,000 BC, experiencing colonialism in the 16th century, enduring a civil war in the late 20th century, to becoming the Guatemala we know today. With more than half of the population being Ladino and the rest being Caucasian and African.

Given its history, it’s no surprise that the local cuisine in Guatemala is quite intriguing. When you visit Guatemala, make sure to sample the dishes listed below. Here are the best local foods in Guatemala that you must try.

1. Pepian

One of the most recommended dishes in Guatemala is Pepian. A testament to the unique blend of Mayan and Spanish cuisine, Pepian is a spicy stew made from chicken, carrots, corn, pumpkins, potatoes, and beans. This dish, with its curry-like appearance, is believed to be the oldest in Guatemala, reflecting Mayan and Colonial influences.

Due to its popularity, Pepian can be found all over Guatemala, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants.

2. Kak’ik

Another Mayan culinary inheritance in Guatemala is Kak’ik, a turkey soup seasoned with coriander, chili, peppers, and achiote. The original Kak’ik can be found with the Q’eqchi tribe, serving a recipe that has been passed down for generations. Enjoy this soup with rice or tortillas.

3. Chiles Rellenos

Chiles Rellenos combine the flavors of enchiladas and tacos in one delicious dish. A spicy chili pepper filled with rice, cheese, meat, and vegetables, covered in eggs, and deep-fried to perfection. Usually enjoyed with tortillas and tomato sauce.

4. Pupusas

Pupusas are thick tortillas filled with beans, cheese, and pork meat, fried to a crunchy exterior and a mild interior. Originally from El Salvador, Pupusas have become a beloved dish in Guatemala, with a modified recipe to suit local tastes. Enjoy with salsa and fresh cabbage.

5. Tostada

Tostada is a popular street food that combines the flavors of enchiladas and tacos. A taco topped with various ingredients like salsa, chicken, beef, or salad, customized to your liking.

6. Empanadas

Empanadas are a delicious snack, with a crunchy shell and a soft, flavorful filling. These half-moon shaped pastries are filled with vegetables and fried to perfection. Vegetarian-friendly options are available, filled with spinach or potatoes and served with guacamole, tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro.

7. Tapado

Located between the Pacific Ocean and a small part of the Caribbean Sea, Guatemala is known for its seafood, especially along the Caribbean coast. Try Tapado, a traditional seafood stew that captures the flavors of the region.

The stew is made with coconut milk and seasoned with authentic Caribbean spices, typically served with mashed plantain. This dish offers a unique and flavorful experience that highlights the tropical flavors of the region. Please rewrite this sentence.