Dive into the rich flavors of Guatemala with this traditional dish, Hilachas. Translated as "shredded" or "tattered," Hilachas is a hearty and comforting meal that embodies the country's culinary heritage. Made from tender shreds of beef simmered in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, infused with aromatic spices like cumin and coriander, and accompanied by tender vegetables such as carrots and potatoes, this dish is a celebration of Guatemala's vibrant gastronomy. Join us on a culinary journey as we uncover the secrets behind the preparation of this beloved Guatemalan favorite and discover the cultural significance it holds within the country's diverse culinary landscape.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef (such as flank steak or chuck roast), thinly sliced into strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 2 dried guajillo chilies, seeded and soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
• 2 dried ancho chilies, seeded and soaked in hot water for 15 minutes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• Cooked rice or tortillas, for serving
• Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1- Drain the soaked chilies and place them in a blender along with the tomatoes. Blend until smooth to make a chili paste. Set aside.

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

3- Add the sliced beef to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.

4- Stir in the chili paste, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

5- Pour in the beef broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the Hilachas simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.

7- Once the beef is tender, stir in the diced carrots and potatoes. Cover the pot again and simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.

8- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

9- Serve the Hilachas hot over cooked rice or with warm tortillas. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Guatemala Hilachas!

Nutritional Values :

Beef (2 lbs):Calories: 800

• Protein: 100g
• Fat: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits : Excellent source of protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for muscle growth, energy production, and overall health.

Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons):Calories: 240

• Fat: 28g

benefits : Provides healthy fats that are important for brain function, hormone production, and nutrient absorption.

Onion:Calories: 44

• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g

benefits : Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, onions may help boost immunity, improve heart health, and regulate blood sugar levels.

Garlic (3 cloves):Calories: 13

• Protein: 0.6g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g

benefits : Known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, garlic can support immune function, heart health, and may have cancer-fighting effects.

Tomatoes (2):Calories: 44

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

benefits : High in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants like lycopene, tomatoes promote heart health, improve skin health, and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Dried guajillo chilies (2):Calories: 24

• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g

benefits : Good source of vitamins A and C, as well as capsaicin, which may aid in weight loss, pain relief, and reducing inflammation.

Dried ancho chilies (2):Calories: 20

• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 5g

benefits : Rich in vitamins A and C, ancho chilies also contain antioxidants and may help boost metabolism and improve digestion.

Ground cumin (1 teaspoon):Calories: 8

• Protein: 0.4g
• Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 1.3g

benefits : Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion, improve blood sugar control, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Dried oregano (1 teaspoon):Calories: 3

• Protein: 0.1g
• Fat: 0.1g
• Carbohydrates: 0.6g

benefits : Packed with antioxidants, oregano may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, and could potentially improve digestion and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Beef broth (4 cups):Calories: 20

• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g

benefits : Provides essential nutrients like protein and minerals, supports hydration, and may help promote bone and joint health.

Carrots (2):Calories: 50

• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g

benefits : High in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamins A and K, carrots promote eye health, support immune function, and may improve skin health

Potatoes (2):Calories: 220

• Protein: 5g
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g

benefits : Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, potatoes provide energy, support muscle function, and may help regulate blood pressure and digestion

Rice or tortillas (not included as values may vary based on type and serving size)

benefits : Serve as a source of carbohydrates, which are the body's primary energy source, and provide essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish):Negligible caloric value

benefits : Contains antioxidants and may have antimicrobial properties, as well as aiding digestion and freshening breath.

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as specific brands, preparation methods, and serving sizes.