Indulge in the rich and vibrant taste of Guatemala with our Enchiladas Guatemaltecas. These traditional delights are a culinary celebration of Guatemala's diverse heritage and flavors.

Tender corn tortillas are filled with a tantalizing blend of seasoned meats, savory beans, and crisp vegetables, then lovingly topped with a flavorful tomato sauce and a sprinkle of fresh cheese. Each bite is a journey through Guatemala's culinary landscape, combining indigenous ingredients with Spanish influences to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether enjoyed as a hearty meal or a delightful snack, our Guatemala Enchiladas Guatemaltecas are sure to transport your taste buds to the colorful streets of Guatemala.

Ingredients:

For the enchilada filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or shredded chicken (you can also use cheese or sautéed vegetables for vegetarian option)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cooked black beans (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For assembling and frying:

• 12-16 corn tortillas
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the tomato sauce:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño pepper, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For garnishes:

• Crumbled queso fresco or grated cheese
• Finely chopped cilantro
• Thinly sliced red onions
• Sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

2- Add the ground beef or shredded chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking up any large chunks with a spoon. If using, add the cooked black beans to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

3- In a separate skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes, onion, minced garlic, and jalapeño pepper (if using) to the skillet. Cook until the tomatoes are softened and beginning to break down, about 8-10 minutes.

4- Stir in the ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat. Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth to make the tomato sauce.

5- To assemble the enchiladas, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dip each corn tortilla in the hot oil for a few seconds to soften, then remove and drain on paper towels.

6- Place a spoonful of the filling (meat, cheese, or vegetables) in the center of each tortilla, then roll it up tightly. Secure the enchilada with toothpicks if necessary.

7- Fry the filled enchiladas in the hot oil until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

8- To serve, place the fried enchiladas on a serving platter. Drizzle with the homemade tomato sauce and sprinkle with crumbled queso fresco or grated cheese, finely chopped cilantro, and thinly sliced red onions. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Guatemala Enchiladas Guatemaltecas!

Nutritional Values :

Ground beef (1 lb):

• Calories: 840 kcal
• Protein: 72 g
• Fat: 56 g
• Carbohydrates: 0 g

benefits : Excellent source of protein, iron, and various B vitamins essential for energy production and muscle function.

Corn tortillas (12-16 tortillas):

• Calories: 60-80 kcal per tortilla
• Protein: 1-2 g per tortilla
• Fat: 0-1 g per tortilla
• Carbohydrates: 12-15 g per tortilla

benefits : Low in fat and a good source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and essential nutrients like magnesium and phosphorus.

Black beans (1 cup, cooked):

• Calories: 227 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 15 g

benefits : High in protein and fiber, black beans are also rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support heart health and digestion.

Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Fat: 28 g

benefits : Provides healthy fats essential for brain function and cell growth, as well as vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties.

Tomatoes (4 medium):

• Calories: 100 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 6 g

benefits : Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes support heart health, eye health, and immune function.

Onion (1 large):

• Calories: 60 kcal
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 3 g

benefits : Low in calories and high in antioxidants, onions contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and boost immune function.

Garlic (2 cloves):

• Calories: 10 kcal
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g

benefits : Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, and it may help lower cholesterol levels.

Bell pepper (1 medium):

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g

benefits : High in vitamin C, bell peppers also provide fiber, vitamins A and K, and antioxidants that support eye health, immune function, and digestion.

Jalapeño pepper (1 medium, optional):

• Calories: 4 kcal
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g

benefits : Contains capsaicin, which may aid in weight loss, reduce inflammation, and improve heart health due to its antioxidant properties.

Ground cumin (1 teaspoon):

• Calories: 8 kcal
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1 g

benefits : Rich in antioxidants, cumin may help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and support blood sugar control.

Queso fresco or cheese (as desired for topping):

• Nutritional values vary based on type and quantity used.

benefits : Good source of calcium and protein, cheese also provides essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and phosphorus for bone health and muscle function.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as brands, cooking methods, and specific ingredients used. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are for one serving of each ingredient, and the actual values in the prepared dish may vary based on portion size and other factors.