3.3K
This collection of 25 Easy Guatemala Recipes features many of the country’s best-known foods, including Pepian de Pollo, Jocon de Pollo, Hilachas, Kakik, Paches, Tamales, and Caldo de Res. Guatemalan cuisine combines Indigenous Mayan traditions with Spanish influences to create a wide variety of soups, stews, tamales, breads, desserts, and fresh side dishes. The roundup also includes popular snacks, desserts, sauces, and traditional accompaniments that are commonly enjoyed throughout Guatemala.
Many Guatemalan recipes rely on ingredients such as corn, beans, plantains, tomatoes, peppers, chicken, beef, and locally grown vegetables. Corn remains a staple ingredient and appears in tortillas, tamales, and many traditional dishes. The collection includes hearty soups, flavorful stews, seafood recipes, fresh condiments, sweet baked goods, and classic desserts that reflect the variety found in Guatemalan home cooking and family meals.
Whether you are looking to prepare a traditional Guatemalan dinner or explore new Central American flavors, this roundup offers a wide range of recipes for every occasion. From comforting soups and slow-cooked meat dishes to homemade tortillas, ceviche, and sweet treats, these recipes showcase some of Guatemala’s most popular foods. Together, they provide an easy introduction to the ingredients, cooking styles, and traditional dishes that continue to be enjoyed across the country today.
25 Easy Guatemala Recipes
1
Guatemalan Mazapan
Guatemalan Mazapan is a sweet confection traditionally made from ground peanuts and sugar pressed into small shapes or discs. Unlike some marzipan varieties made with almonds, Guatemalan Mazapan relies on peanuts, giving it a distinct flavor and texture. The candy is commonly sold in markets, bakeries, and local shops throughout Guatemala. Its crumbly consistency allows it to break apart easily while maintaining a rich peanut flavor. Mazapan is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert and remains a popular treat among both children and adults, reflecting the widespread use of peanuts in Guatemalan sweets.
Check out this recipe
2
Guatemalan Pulique
Pulique is a traditional Guatemalan stew known for its thick sauce made from tomatoes, tomatillos, peppers, and masa, which helps create its characteristic texture. The dish is commonly prepared with chicken, beef, or pork and seasoned with herbs and spices. Pulique has deep roots in Indigenous Guatemalan cooking traditions and is especially associated with celebrations and family gatherings. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender while absorbing the flavors of the sauce. It is typically served with rice, tamales, or tortillas and remains an important part of Guatemalan cuisine.
Check out this recipe
3
Guatemalan Pan de Banano
Pan de Banano is a banana bread made with ripe bananas, flour, sugar, eggs, and baking ingredients that create a moist texture and naturally sweet flavor. Some recipes include nuts, raisins, or spices for added variety. The bananas contribute both moisture and richness, helping the bread remain soft after baking. Pan de Banano is commonly served as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert alongside coffee or tea. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation have made it a popular homemade baked good in Guatemala and throughout Central America.
Check out this recipe
4
Guatemalan Sopa de Albóndigas
Sopa de Albóndigas is a hearty Guatemalan soup made with meatballs simmered in a broth containing vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, squash, and herbs. The meatballs are often seasoned with spices and may include rice or breadcrumbs to help hold their shape during cooking. As the soup simmers, the flavors blend together while the vegetables become tender. Sopa de Albóndigas is commonly served as a main meal and is especially popular for family lunches and gatherings. Its combination of broth, vegetables, and meatballs makes it a filling and comforting dish.
Check out this recipe
5
Guatemalan Tapado
Tapado is a coastal Guatemalan seafood stew prepared with fish, shellfish, plantains, coconut milk, and vegetables. The coconut milk creates a rich broth that complements the seafood while adding depth to the dish. Tapado is particularly associated with the Caribbean-influenced cuisine of Guatemala’s Atlantic coast, where fresh seafood is widely available. The stew is simmered until the ingredients become tender and the flavors fully develop. It is commonly served as a main course and reflects the blend of Indigenous, African, and Caribbean influences that shape the region’s culinary traditions.
Check out this recipe
6
Guatemalan Polvorosas
Polvorosas are traditional Guatemalan cookies known for their crumbly texture and buttery flavor. The name comes from the Spanish word polvo, meaning powder, which reflects how easily the cookies break apart when eaten. They are typically made with flour, butter, sugar, and flavorings such as vanilla or cinnamon. Polvorosas are commonly served with coffee or tea and are popular during holidays, celebrations, and family gatherings. Their simple ingredients and delicate texture have helped make them a long-standing favorite in Guatemalan baking traditions and a common treat found in bakeries throughout the country.
Check out this recipe
7
Guatemalan Guacamole
Guatemalan Guacamole is a fresh avocado-based dip made with ripe avocados, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings. While it shares similarities with other Central American and Mexican versions, Guatemalan guacamole often has a chunkier texture that highlights the individual ingredients. The avocados are mashed lightly rather than fully blended, creating a fresh and vibrant dish. Guacamole is commonly served with tortillas, grilled meats, tamales, or as part of larger meals. Its use of locally grown avocados and simple preparation has made it a popular accompaniment throughout Guatemala.
Check out this recipe
8
Guatemalan Champurradas
Champurradas are traditional Guatemalan cookies recognized for their large, crisp texture and topping of sesame seeds. Made from flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, they are baked until lightly golden and firm. These cookies are commonly enjoyed with coffee, hot chocolate, or other beverages and are a staple in many Guatemalan bakeries. Champurradas are often served at breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Their simple ingredient list and crunchy texture have helped maintain their popularity across generations, making them one of Guatemala’s most recognizable baked treats.
Check out this recipe
9
Guatemalan Jardineras
Jardineras is a Guatemalan vegetable dish that combines a variety of vegetables such as carrots, green beans, peas, potatoes, and other seasonal produce. The vegetables are cooked until tender and seasoned to create a colorful and flavorful side dish. Some versions include meat or additional ingredients depending on regional preferences and family traditions. The name reflects the variety of vegetables used, creating a garden-like mixture of colors and textures. Jardineras is commonly served alongside roasted meats, stews, and rice dishes and remains a popular accompaniment in Guatemalan home cooking.
Check out this recipe
10
Guatemalan Bunuelos
Buñuelos are traditional Guatemalan fritters made from a dough that is shaped into balls and fried until golden brown. After frying, they are commonly served with a sweet syrup flavored with ingredients such as cinnamon, anise, or sugar. The exterior becomes lightly crisp while the inside remains soft and airy. Buñuelos are especially popular during holidays, religious celebrations, and festive occasions throughout Guatemala. They are often enjoyed as a dessert or special treat and remain one of the country's most cherished traditional sweets, particularly during Christmas and New Year festivities.
Check out this recipe
11
Guatemalan Rellenitos de Platano
Rellenitos de Plátano are a traditional Guatemalan dessert made by mashing ripe plantains and filling them with sweetened black beans before frying until golden. The plantains provide a naturally sweet exterior while the bean filling adds a rich texture and flavor. After frying, the rellenitos are often sprinkled with sugar or served warm as a snack or dessert. This dish reflects the widespread use of plantains and beans in Guatemalan cuisine. Rellenitos are commonly sold by street vendors and prepared in homes, making them one of Guatemala’s most recognizable traditional sweets.
Check out this recipe
12
Guatemalan Shrimp Ceviche de Camaron
Shrimp Ceviche de Camarón is a seafood dish made with shrimp marinated in citrus juice and mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and other fresh ingredients. The citrus provides a bright flavor that complements the shrimp while the vegetables add texture and freshness. In Guatemala, ceviche is often served chilled and accompanied by crackers, tortilla chips, or tostadas. Coastal regions are particularly known for seafood preparations such as this. Shrimp Ceviche de Camarón is commonly enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, especially during warm weather and festive gatherings.
Check out this recipe
13
Guatemalan Hilachas
Hilachas is a traditional Guatemalan beef stew made with shredded beef simmered in a tomato-based sauce flavored with peppers, spices, and vegetables. The name translates to “rags,” referring to the shredded appearance of the meat after cooking. Potatoes are commonly added to the stew, helping absorb the flavorful sauce. Hilachas has roots in Indigenous and Spanish culinary traditions and is widely enjoyed throughout Guatemala. The dish is typically served with rice, tortillas, or tamales and remains a popular family meal because of its hearty texture and rich flavor.
Check out this recipe
14
Guatemalan Jocon de Pollo
Jocón de Pollo is a traditional Guatemalan chicken stew known for its distinctive green sauce made from tomatillos, cilantro, green peppers, and herbs. The chicken is simmered in the sauce until tender, allowing it to absorb the fresh flavors of the ingredients. Jocón has Indigenous origins and is considered one of Guatemala’s most important traditional dishes. The bright green color and herb-based sauce distinguish it from many other stews. It is commonly served with rice, tortillas, or vegetables and is frequently prepared for family meals and special occasions.
Check out this recipe
15
Guatemalan Chile Rellenos
Guatemalan Chile Rellenos are stuffed peppers filled with a mixture that commonly includes meat, vegetables, and seasonings. The peppers are coated in an egg batter and fried until golden before being served with a tomato-based sauce. Unlike some other regional versions, Guatemalan Chile Rellenos often feature finely chopped ingredients blended together into the filling. The combination of tender peppers, savory filling, and light coating creates a balance of textures and flavors. This dish is commonly served as a main course and remains a popular part of traditional Guatemalan home cooking.
Check out this recipe
16
Guatemalan Chirmol
Chirmol is a traditional Guatemalan salsa made from roasted tomatoes, onions, peppers, and fresh herbs. The vegetables are commonly charred before being chopped or blended, giving the salsa a distinctive smoky flavor. Variations may include cilantro, lime juice, or additional seasonings depending on regional and family preferences. Chirmol is often served alongside grilled meats, beans, tortillas, and other traditional dishes. Its simple preparation and fresh ingredients have made it a staple condiment throughout Guatemala. The combination of roasted vegetables and herbs creates a versatile accompaniment that enhances a wide range of meals.
Check out this recipe
17
Guatemalan Kakik
Kakik is a traditional turkey soup with Indigenous Maya origins and is especially associated with the Alta Verapaz region of Guatemala. The soup is prepared with turkey, tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and spices that create its distinctive red broth. The turkey is simmered until tender while the seasonings blend into a flavorful soup. Kakik is recognized as an important part of Guatemala’s culinary heritage and is often served during celebrations and family gatherings. It is commonly accompanied by rice, tamales, or tortillas and remains one of the country's most respected traditional dishes.
Check out this recipe
18
Guatemalan Caldo de Res
Caldo de Res is a hearty beef soup made by simmering beef with vegetables such as corn, carrots, potatoes, cabbage, and squash. The long cooking process allows the broth to develop a rich flavor while the vegetables become tender. Different regions and households may include additional vegetables depending on availability and preference. Caldo de Res is commonly served as a complete meal and is often accompanied by tortillas, rice, or lime wedges. Its combination of meat, vegetables, and broth has made it a popular comfort food throughout Guatemala.
Check out this recipe
19
Guatemalan Paches
Paches are traditional Guatemalan tamales made with a potato-based dough instead of the corn masa used in many other tamale varieties. The dough is typically filled with meat, sauce, and seasonings before being wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Paches are especially popular on Thursdays in many parts of Guatemala and are often prepared for family meals and community gatherings. The banana leaves help retain moisture and add aroma during cooking. Their unique potato base and rich filling distinguish them from other tamales commonly found throughout Central America.
Check out this recipe
20
Guatemalan Tamales
Guatemalan Tamales are made from corn masa filled with meats, vegetables, sauces, and seasonings before being wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. The banana leaf wrapping gives the tamales a distinctive aroma and helps keep them moist during cooking. Regional variations exist throughout Guatemala, with different fillings and sauce styles reflecting local traditions. Tamales are especially important during holidays, celebrations, and family gatherings, where they are often prepared in large batches. Their long history and cultural significance have made them one of the most iconic and widely enjoyed foods in Guatemalan cuisine.
Check out this recipe
21
Guatemalan Tostadas
Guatemalan Tostadas are crisp corn tortillas that are fried or toasted and topped with a variety of ingredients such as refried beans, guacamole, tomato sauce, cheese, or meats. They are commonly served as snacks, appetizers, or light meals and are popular at markets, celebrations, and family gatherings. The crunchy tortilla serves as a base for colorful toppings that can vary by region and household tradition. Tostadas are often sold by street vendors and are enjoyed throughout Guatemala. Their versatility and simple preparation have made them one of the country's most familiar and widely consumed foods.
Check out this recipe
22
Guatemalan Pepian de Pollo
Pepián de Pollo is one of Guatemala’s oldest and most important traditional dishes, combining Indigenous Maya and Spanish culinary influences. The dish features chicken cooked in a thick sauce made from roasted tomatoes, peppers, seeds, spices, and vegetables. The roasting process gives the sauce a deep flavor while the chicken becomes tender during simmering. Pepián is recognized as part of Guatemala’s national culinary heritage and is commonly served with rice, tortillas, or tamales. Its rich sauce and long history have made it a staple at family meals, celebrations, and special occasions throughout the country.
Check out this recipe
23
Guatemalan Sopa de Frijol
Sopa de Frijol is a traditional Guatemalan bean soup made from black beans cooked with onions, garlic, herbs, and seasonings. The beans are often blended or partially mashed to create a thick and hearty texture. Some versions include vegetables, eggs, or cheese as additional ingredients. The soup is commonly served with tortillas, rice, avocado, or cream, making it a filling and economical meal. Beans are a major staple throughout Guatemala, and Sopa de Frijol remains a popular everyday dish because of its simple ingredients, nutritional value, and comforting flavor.
Check out this recipe
24
Guatemalan Homemade Corn Tortillas
Homemade Corn Tortillas are a fundamental part of Guatemalan cuisine and are prepared from masa made with corn that has been processed through nixtamalization. The dough is shaped into flat rounds and cooked on a hot griddle until fully cooked. Tortillas are served with nearly every type of meal, including soups, stews, beans, meats, and vegetables. They are often made fresh daily in homes throughout the country. Their importance in Guatemalan food culture reflects centuries of Indigenous traditions, making corn tortillas one of the most essential and widely consumed foods in Guatemala.
Check out this recipe
25
Guatemalan Frijoles Volteados
Frijoles Volteados are Guatemalan refried beans made by cooking black beans and then frying them with oil and seasonings until they develop a smooth, thick consistency. The beans are often mashed or blended before cooking to create their characteristic texture. Frijoles Volteados are commonly served with tortillas, eggs, cheese, plantains, and other traditional foods. They are a staple at breakfast but are also enjoyed throughout the day as a side dish or filling. Their rich flavor, simple preparation, and widespread availability have made them a cornerstone of Guatemalan home cooking.
Check out this recipe
Laurel Rodgers is a recipe collector and co-founder of World Travel Recipes. Since 2014, she and John Rodgers have traveled to 165 of the 195 countries, gathering over 5,000 recipes directly from local cooks, markets, and small restaurants. Laurel participates in cooking classes, works with host families, and documents recipes as they are prepared. She manages recipe organization and ensures each recipe is written so it can be followed in a real home kitchen.
Recipes are gathered in person and written for real-world cooking conditions.
Recipes are gathered in person and written for real-world cooking conditions.
Latest posts by BdRecipes (see all)
- Ukrainian Braised Pork with Mashed Potatoes - June 10, 2026
- Ukrainian Grain Pudding Recipe - June 10, 2026
- Ukrainian Wedding Bread Recipe - June 10, 2026
3 comments
Wow, those Guatemalan recipes sound amazing! But, do you think they missed any must-try dishes? Im craving some Pepian or Tamales right now. Whats your go-to Guatemalan recipe?
I cant believe they left out the recipe for Kakik! Its such a delicious traditional Guatemalan dish. I guess they cant fit all the tasty recipes into one article. Whats your favorite Guatemalan dish?
I cant believe they didnt include Pepián in the list! Its a classic Guatemalan dish thats so flavorful and comforting. Maybe they should do a part two with more traditional recipes. Whos with me?
Comments are closed.