Why Guatemalan food is the best in the world
What is the best thing about visiting a new country? I’ve always thought that it is trying out authentic, local dishes. And there really is no better place to do this than Guatemala.
My country’s cuisine, like so much of its culture, draws on a rich variety of traditions. You can read more about my thoughts on Guatemalan culture here. From traditional Mayan dishes to Caribbean spices and Spanish flavours, the combination is truly irresistible.
If you’re looking for variety, incredible flavours and fresh food like you’ve never tasted before, then Guatemalan food is the best in the world. Here are a few reasons why.
Guatemalan stews are second to none
If there is one thing you quickly discover about Guatemala, it’s that it isn’t always warm. While you might imagine a country full of steaming jungles, it can actually get pretty cold too. And if you’re looking to hike up a volcano in particular, be prepared for a stiff breeze.
All this is my way of saying that sometimes, you’ll be grateful for a big, warming bowl of stew. And there is nowhere on the planet that does them better than Guatemala.
Picture this: you’ve just come down from a hike up one of the volcanoes surrounding Lake Atitlán. You scan the menu, and order yourself a Jocón de Pollo — a gorgeously delicious chicken stew that will warm you to the core. It is the best comfort food on the planet.
No one does comfort food like we do in Guatemala
Talking of comfort food, you might be lucky enough to make friends in Guatemala who invite you to their home for a meal. If they do, then get ready for a treat.
Given the quality of our Jocón de Pollo, it’s no surprise that Guatemalan chicken soup is also one of the best in the world. But other family favourites include another traditional Mayan stew — Kak’ik — which is made from turkey (with a handful of coriander, among other things).
And if you’re having a family meal, then there is also a good chance that you will be tucking into another Guatemalan staple: tortillas.
We make the best tortillas in South America
Tortillas are huge in most of Latin America, and Guatemala is no different. No surprises there. But in my view you will find some of the very best in Guatemala.
They’re made from a Guatemalan staple — corn — and are cooked on a comal, a kind of iron griddle. Prepare to eat a huge amount of these when you visit the country. If you’re eating out, you’ll get a constant stream of them until you can’t manage any more. They are the essential accompaniment to most Guatemalan meals.
A variation on the theme are pupusas. These stuffed tortillas originated in El Salvador but in Guatemala we have made them our own. Try one stuffed with cheese or refried beans.
If you’re out and about, my tip is to buy your tortillas from a traditional tortilleria. They’ll be made there and then, right in front of you, as they should be.
Guatemalan street food is incredible
Guatemalan street food isn’t just about tortillas though. The world has gone crazy for ‘authentic’ street food in recent years, but Guatemala is the place to sample the real thing.
If you’re looking for something savoury, why not try an elotes locos. Corn on the cob with mayo, cheese, ketchup and mustard is an unforgettable (if messy) experience. Chiles rellenos are also incredible — battered stuffed hot peppers packed with mince and spiced veg. It’s not particularly healthy, but it is the perfect food to grab on the go.
Finally, if you’ve got a sweeter tooth, then you have to try some freshly baked rellenitos — a kind of Guatemalan doughnut made from plantains.
Buen provecho!
If you are heading to Guatemala City, make sure you check out my guide to eating out, here.
