Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Guatemala with this traditional Pepián recipe. Pepián, a beloved dish in Guatemalan cuisine, is a hearty stew bursting with layers of savory spices and tender meats. Our recipe captures the essence of this culinary delight, combining aromatic ingredients like roasted tomatoes, peppers, and fragrant spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Slow-cooked to perfection, this Pepián promises a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to the vibrant streets of Guatemala. Whether enjoyed with rice, tortillas, or simply on its own, this authentic dish is sure to leave you craving for more. Embrace the richness of Guatemalan culture with every satisfying spoonful of Pepián.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (about 1 kg) of chicken or beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 bell peppers (1 green, 1 red), chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 chayote squash, peeled and chopped (optional)
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds
• 2 tablespoons peanuts
• 2 tablespoons almonds
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or tortillas for serving

Instructions:

1- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

2- Add the chopped tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, and chayote squash (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

3- Push the vegetables to one side of the pot and add the chicken or beef pieces to the empty side. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5 minutes.

4- In a blender or food processor, combine the sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, almonds, oregano, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, and a little bit of the chicken or beef broth. Blend until you have a smooth paste.

5- Pour the spice paste over the browned meat and vegetables in the pot. Stir to coat everything evenly.

6- Add the remaining chicken or beef broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

7- Taste the Pepián and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

8- Serve the Guatemala Pepián hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired. Accompany with cooked rice or warm tortillas.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful traditional Guatemalan stew with your family and friends!

Nutritional Values :

Chicken breast (per 3 oz or 85g serving):

• Calories: 120
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 1.5g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits : Chicken is a good source of lean protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

Beef (lean ground beef, per 3 oz or 85g serving):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits : Beef provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, important for overall health and energy production.

Vegetable oil (per tablespoon):

• Calories: 120
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits

• Provides healthy fats that support brain function and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Contains vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant and helps protect cells from damage.

Onion (per medium onion, about 110g):

• Calories: 44
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
• Contains prebiotic fibers that support gut health and digestion.

Tomato (per medium tomato, about 123g):

• Calories: 22
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• High in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and supports collagen production for healthy skin.
• Contains lycopene, an antioxidant associated with reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

Bell pepper (per medium pepper, about 119g):

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

benefits

• Excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen synthesis.
• Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene and quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties.

Carrot (per medium carrot, about 61g):

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

benefits

• Rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and essential for vision health.
• Contains fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.

Chayote squash (per medium chayote, about 190g):

• Calories: 39
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits

• Low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great choice for weight management.
• Rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function.

Sesame seeds (per tablespoon):

• Calories: 52
• Fat: 4.5g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 2g

benefits

• Good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which promote satiety and aid in weight management.
• Contains lignans, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Pumpkin seeds (per tablespoon):

• Calories: 47
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Protein: 2g

benefits

• High in magnesium, which supports bone health and muscle function.
• Rich in zinc, which boosts immune function and supports wound healing.

Peanuts (per tablespoon):

• Calories: 47
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 2g

benefits

• Excellent source of monounsaturated fats, which help lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Contains resveratrol, a powerful antioxidant associated with reduced inflammation and improved heart health.

Almonds (per tablespoon):

• Calories: 49
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Protein: 2g

benefits

• Packed with vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells from damage and supports skin health.
• High in magnesium, which promotes bone health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as the specific ingredients used and any additional seasonings or sauces added during preparation.